Minnesota is known for its stunning lakes, harsh winters, and friendly Midwestern charm, but it also has some surprisingly strange driving laws. While most traffic regulations exist to keep the roads safe and orderly, some of Minnesota’s rules seem outdated, overly specific, or just plain bizarre.

Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, here are seven unusual Minnesota driving laws that might leave you scratching your head.

It’s Illegal to Drive a Car Without a Steering Wheel

You’d think this would go without saying, but Minnesota has an actual law requiring cars to have a steering wheel in order to be legally driven. While this seems like common sense, the rule was likely introduced to regulate vehicle modifications.

Over the years, people have attempted to drive cars using unconventional steering mechanisms, such as joystick-like controls or handlebars. However, under Minnesota law, if your car doesn’t have a traditional steering wheel, you’re technically breaking the law.

No Dirty License Plates Allowed

Minnesota drivers need to be careful about how clean their vehicles are—specifically their license plates. It’s illegal to drive with a dirty license plate that makes the numbers or letters difficult to read. While this might seem like a trivial rule, it ensures that law enforcement can always identify vehicles properly.

Given the state’s long winters and slushy roads, keeping your license plate visible at all times can be a challenge. If you’re driving in Minnesota during the colder months, make sure to wipe off your plate regularly to avoid a fine.

It’s Illegal to Cross State Lines With a Duck on Your Head

One of the strangest Minnesota driving laws states that you cannot cross state lines with a duck on your head. The origins of this law remain unclear, but it likely stems from an outdated ordinance meant to prevent distractions on the road.

While it’s highly unlikely that police officers are on the lookout for duck-wearing motorists, this bizarre law remains on the books. Whether it was a joke law or an actual attempt to regulate behavior, it’s a fun piece of Minnesota’s legal history.

No Driving With Bare Tires in Winter

Minnesota’s winter roads can be treacherous, and the state takes tire safety seriously. Driving with worn-out or bald tires is illegal, as it increases the risk of skidding and losing control on icy roads. The law is meant to ensure that all vehicles have sufficient traction during the snowy months.

If you get caught driving with excessively worn tires, you could face a fine. To stay safe (and legal), it’s always a good idea to check your tire tread before the winter season hits.

You Can’t Leave Your Car Running Unattended

Minnesota law prohibits leaving your vehicle running while unattended, even in your own driveway. This law was introduced primarily to prevent car theft, but it also aims to reduce unnecessary emissions. Many Minnesota drivers find this rule inconvenient, especially in the winter when they want to warm up their cars before hitting the road.

However, if you use a remote starter that keeps the doors locked, you can still legally warm up your car without violating the law.

No Coasting Downhill in Neutral

Another strange Minnesota law states that drivers cannot coast downhill in neutral. Some drivers believe shifting to neutral saves gas, but in reality, it reduces the driver’s control over the vehicle. This law is especially relevant in Minnesota, where steep hills and icy roads make it essential to maintain full control at all times. If you’re caught coasting downhill in neutral, you could be fined for violating this obscure yet practical traffic law.

You Must Yield to Horses and Buggies

In rural areas of Minnesota, horse-drawn buggies are still a common sight, particularly in Amish communities. By law, drivers must yield the right of way to horses and buggies and take extra precautions when passing them. This rule is designed to protect both the animals and their riders, as loud engines and fast-moving vehicles can easily startle horses.

If you’re driving in rural Minnesota, be mindful of this law and slow down when approaching a horse-drawn buggy.

Why These Laws Exist

While some of these laws may seem strange or outdated, they all have a purpose—whether it’s ensuring road safety, reducing distractions, or protecting property. Many of these rules were enacted in response to specific incidents or concerns at the time, though some have since become more humorous than practical.

Even if some of these laws are rarely enforced, they remain part of Minnesota’s legal code, offering an interesting glimpse into the state’s regulatory history.

How to Stay Safe and Legal on Minnesota Roads

If you’re planning to drive in Minnesota, it’s always best to be aware of both the common and uncommon traffic laws. While you probably won’t be stopped for crossing state lines with a duck on your head, other rules—like keeping your tires in good condition and not leaving your car running unattended—are actively enforced.

Additionally, if you live in or travel through rural areas, be extra cautious around horse-drawn buggies and slow-moving farm equipment. Minnesota’s roads are shared by a diverse range of vehicles, and respecting these regulations helps keep everyone safe.

Understanding these unusual driving laws can also help you avoid unnecessary fines or tickets. Even if some of these laws seem odd, they exist for a reason, and it’s always a good idea to follow the rules of the road.

Final Thoughts

Minnesota’s driving laws range from practical safety measures to downright bizarre regulations that make you wonder how they ever came to exist. While laws about steering wheels, ducks, and neutral gear might not be top priorities for law enforcement today, they serve as fascinating reminders of how traffic regulations have evolved over time.

So the next time you’re driving through the Land of 10,000 Lakes, keep these quirky laws in mind. They might not always make sense, but they add to the unique character of Minnesota’s roadways.

For more details on Minnesota’s driving regulations, visit the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

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