No, it is NOT illegal to drive barefoot. Our research indicates that driving barefoot is perfectly legal in all states of the U.S., all Canadian provinces, The United Kingdom1 and many other territories and countries. The only state in the U.S. that requires shoes while driving is Alabama -- and it's only for motorcycle riders.

This U.S. urban myth is actually one of many that were debunked by popular auto site Edmunds.com, "with the help of police officers, insurance companies, the Insurance Information Institute, trial attorneys and the American Association of Motor Vehicle Administrators."2

For information on your area's specific traffic laws, contact your law enforcement agencies.

1. "Is It Illegal to Drive Barefoot? Answered" All About The Feet (Link)
2. "Traffic Ticket Urban Legends" Edmunds.com (Link)