Is Driving Without a Shirt Legal in Peru After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No, Peruvian law prohibits driving without a shirt under Decreto Supremo 016-2009-MTC, which mandates seatbelt use and proper attire for vehicle operators. The Ministerio de Transportes y Comunicaciones (MTC) enforces this via traffic police (Policía Nacional del Perú), with fines up to S/ 300 (2024) for violations. While cultural norms in coastal regions may tolerate partial shirtlessness, legal risks persist.


Key Regulations for Driving Without a Shirt in Peru

  • Traffic Code Mandate: Decreto Supremo 016-2009-MTC (Article 85) requires drivers to wear clothing covering the torso, aligning with seatbelt regulations to ensure safety and decorum.
  • Enforcement by MTC: Traffic police (PNP) issue fines (S/ 300 in 2024) for shirtless driving, citing public order violations under Ley de Tránsito amendments.
  • Regional Discretion: Local authorities in Lima and coastal areas may overlook shirtlessness, but inland regions (e.g., Cusco) enforce stricter penalties under Ordenanzas Municipales.