These are the US states that will fine you for driving with snow on your car

  • In some states you could be fined for driving with snow on your car
  • This is the list of states to watch out for

Published on Feb 14, 2025 at 12:24 PM (UTC+4)
by Grace Donohoe

Last updated on Feb 14, 2025 at 6:16 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Kate Bain

There’s a lot to think about when it comes to driving in the snow.

In some states in the US, you legally can’t set off until you’ve removed the white stuff from your car.

In fact, driving prematurely could land you in trouble and out of pocket.

These are the states you have to watch out for.

To drive or not to drive is the question

We get it, it’s cold and you don’t fancy freezing your fingers getting your car clear of snow.

But if you skip this tedious step, you could get in trouble.

So forget pulling away with a hidden license plate or white windshields.

In these states, it is simply illegal to hit the road with your motor covered.

Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, Alaska, Connecticut. Georgia, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Tennessee, and Wisconsin all carry this rule.

What do the states advise?

Don’t panic as there is ample and useful advice to help your record stay squeaky clean.

“Clear snow and ice from your vehicle’s windows, front and rear lights, roof and hood. Ensure everyone is buckled up,” Wisconsin’s Department of Transportation advises.

Whereas, Tennessee advises: “Before venturing out onto snowy roadways, make sure you’ve cleared the snow
off all of your vehicle’s windows and lights, including brake lights and turn signals. Make sure you can see and be seen. Always buckle up, and remember, when driving in ice and snow, take it slow.”

Fear not though as there are some handy hacks which can help protect your car from getting covered.

For starters, simply parking in a garage or under cover will mean you can just crank the hot air and hit the road.

You can also use a snow blanket which will stop the snow covering your motor, meaning no agonising early morning freeze fests- and a swift commute from home to work.

But ultimately, in order to not get into trouble with each state’s respective authorities, invest in gloves, a de-icer, and a scraper.

Especially if you don’t want your back pocket to take a hit.


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Grace started her career writing about the weird and wonderful for the international press. She's covered everything from lifestyle to sports and hard news and now finds herself pursuing her main interest - cars. She's loved cars from a young age and has a keen interest in luxury travel too.