If you are driving with AirPods, you might wonder if is it legal. Even so, they make music more immersive and answer calls easier. Despite this, wearing headphones while driving is surprisingly illegal. AirPods, as well as most other types of headphones and earbuds, are illegal to wear while driving in most states. You may, however, wear one earbud behind the wheel in some states. Before you try out an Air Pod, check your local laws!
The states where driving with AirPods is illegal:
A number of states have passed laws prohibiting the use of headphones while driving in recent years. These rules are more about safety than anything else.
There are several risks associated with driving with AirPods or any other headphones. In addition to the driver themselves, other road users are also at risk. An accident might occur if your earbuds prevent you from hearing another car’s horn.
Also check out: Driving without a license is legal?
States where driving with AirPods is illegal:
- Alaska
- California
- Ohio
- Rhode Island
- Louisiana
- Maryland
- Virginia
- Washington
- Minnesota
- Ohio
- Rhode Island
There are only a few states that prohibit the use of headphones while driving, as you can see from the table below.
Moreover, some of the rules mentioned above are only applicable under certain circumstances. Motorcyclists in Alaska, for example, are allowed to use GPS audio devices and to communicate with each other.
It is also possible to use only one earbud in some states. Motorcyclists can wear headphones as long as they are part of their protective gear.
Always research the specific laws of your state and county.
States where driving with AirPods is legal:
Despite the dangers of using headphones while driving, many states do not have laws explicitly prohibiting them.
You may still receive a ticket for wearing them in specific circumstances despite living in these places.
You might be charged with reckless endangerment if an officer notices you’re also wearing headphones when you’re pulled over for speeding.
HERE ARE THE STATES WHERE IT IS LEGAL TO WEAR WHILE DRIVING:
- Alabama
- Arkansas
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Hawaii
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Maine
- Michigan
- Mississippi
- Missouri
- Montana
- Nebraska
- Vermont
- West Virginia
- Wisconsin
- Wyoming
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New Mexico
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Utah
- North Carolina
- North Dakota
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
Problems imposed by using AirPods:
- INAUDIBILITY-Noise-canceling AirPods can render ambulances and other cars inaudible, leading to tickets and accidents.
- Distraction – Earbuds and AirPods tend to fall out when driving. When they do, you might instinctively fish for them, which could distract you when you should be paying attention to the road.
- Maintenance – AirPods may mask audible mechanical issues.
- Accident liability – In case of an accident, wearing headphones may shift all blame to you, since other drivers may claim you were distracted.
You can see why some states prohibited the use of headphones while driving. Using them increases your risk of accidents and collisions.
Exceptions for driving with AirPods among different states:
- Arizona – It is illegal for child-care workers and school bus drivers to use headphones while driving, but it is legal for the public.
- Colorado – Wearing headphones while on the phone is illegal, as is using them for listening to music.
- Florida – It’s illegal to use headphones, except when only on one ear, for phone calls.
- Georgia – AirPods and other headphones are legal for drivers to wear in the state. However, they can only be used for phone calls.
- Illinois – headphones are illegal, except when only one ear is being used. Music and phone calls are both illegal.
- Massachusetts bans the use of headphones, except while making a phone call or navigating.
- New York – No matter what their purpose, earbuds, or headphones can be worn in one ear.
- Pennsylvania – Headphones are illegal, except for use by motorcyclists as part of their protective gear.
The District of Columbia also allows headphones to be worn on only one ear, despite not being a state.
CONCLUSION:
There are varying levels of legality associated with driving with AirPods or other headphone devices depending on the state in which you live. Some states permit it, while others will require you to pull over if you do.
It should be noted, however, that driving with AirPods, regardless of their legality, is undoubtedly dangerous, and it should be avoided as much as possible.
FAQs:
AirPods, as well as other types of headphones or earbuds, cannot be worn while driving in most states. The law allows you to wear a single earbud when you’re driving in some states, however. If you want to try out one Air Pod, please make sure to check your local laws!
Before now, there has never been a consumer earphone pair like the Airpods Pro (or Sony’s). In terms of safety, it is no more dangerous than wearing non-sound-insulating headphones while driving.
State law only allows drivers and bicyclists to wear headphones or headsets on one ear while operating a motor vehicle. Using headphones to cover both ears.
You can definitely do that!
Drivers using headphones while driving can be fined £100 on the spot and receive three points on their licenses.