It is not illegal to drive barefoot in Georgia. There is no state law that prohibits operating a car, truck, or van without shoes. This is a common myth, but Georgia—like all 50 states—does not require drivers of standard vehicles to wear any specific footwear. If a police officer pulls you over, you cannot be ticketed just for being barefoot behind the wheel.
Important exception
If you are operating or riding on a motorcycle in Georgia, you must wear shoes (not just socks), as required by state law. This rule is meant to protect motorcyclists’ feet from injury.
Safety and liability
While driving barefoot is legal, it is not always considered the safest option. Bare feet may have less traction on pedals, especially if your feet are wet or sweaty, which could increase the risk of slipping.
If you are involved in an accident and being barefoot contributed to the crash, you could potentially be cited for reckless or careless driving, or found negligent in a civil lawsuit. The key issue is whether your footwear (or lack thereof) affected your control of the vehicle.
Official guidance
Georgia’s Department of Driver Services and law enforcement agencies have publicly confirmed that barefoot driving is legal, but they encourage drivers to use common sense and prioritize safety. Many experts recommend keeping a pair of secure, well-fitted shoes in your car in case you need them for better pedal control or to protect your feet if you must exit your vehicle after an accident.
Table
| Vehicle Type | Barefoot Driving Legal? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Car/Truck/Van | Yes | No law against it; use caution for safety |
| Motorcycle | No | Footwear required by law (not just socks) |
You can legally drive barefoot in Georgia, but you should ensure you can safely operate your vehicle at all times. For motorcycles, shoes are mandatory by law.
Sources
[1] https://www.hasnerlaw.com/blog/is-it-legal-to-drive-barefoot-in-atlanta/
[2] https://www.bourne.law/blog/barefoot-driving/
[3] https://jewkesfirm.com/blog/10-driving-laws-in-georgia-that-may-surprise-you/
[4] https://www.superlawyers.com/resources/traffic-violations/driving-barefoot-is-it-legal/
[5] https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/car/driving-while-barefoot/
