Mirror Laws by State (U.S.)

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Side and Rear View Mirror Laws by State (U.S.)

This page is a collection of laws and regulations regarding side and rear view mirrors in various states of the United States. Use this as a reference as you consider the legal implications of a side view mirror delete.

Canada Mirrors Laws by Province : Mirror Laws by Province (Canada)

Alabama

Alabama Vehicle Code, Section 32-5-214

Mirrors.

Every motor vehicle, operated singly or when towing any other vehicle, shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such motor vehicle. (Acts 1927, No. 347, p. 348; Code 1940, T. 36, §37; Acts 1959, No. 292, p. 860.)

Alaska

Added: 5-9-09 Division of Motor Vehicles

Arizona

Added: 5-9-09 Arizona State Legislature

Title 28: Chapter 2: Article 16 Equipment

28-956. Mirrors
A motor vehicle that is constructed or loaded in a manner that obstructs the driver's view to the rear of the vehicle from the driver's position shall be equipped with two mirrors located in a manner to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of the vehicle.

Arkansas

Added: 5-9-09 Arkansas Motor Vehicle Commission

California

California Vehicle Code, Section 26709.

(a) Every motor vehicle registered in a foreign jurisdiction and every motorcycle subject to registration in this state shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle.

Every motor vehicle subject to registration in this state, except a motorcycle, shall be equipped with not less than two such mirrors, including one affixed to the left-hand side.

(b) The following described types of motor vehicles, of a type subject to registration, shall be equipped with mirrors on both the left-and right-hand sides of the vehicle so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway through each mirror for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle:

(1) A motor vehicle so constructed or loaded as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear.

(2) A motor vehicle towing a vehicle and the towed vehicle or load thereon obstructs the driver's view to the rear.

(3) A bus or trolley coach.

(c) The provisions of subdivision (b) shall not apply to a passenger vehicle when the load obstructing the driver's view consists of passengers. Amended Ch. 74, Stats. 1970. Effective November 23, 1970.

Colorado

4-19-13 Colorado Dept of Transportation: See Model Traffic Code 2010 , http://www.coloradodot.info/library/traffic/traffic-manuals-guidelines/fed-state-co-traffic-manuals

226. Mirrors - exterior placements. (1) Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror or mirrors so located and so constructed as to reflect to the driver a free and unobstructed view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

(2) Whenever any motor vehicle is not equipped with a rear window and rear side windows or has a rear window and rear side windows composed of, covered by, or treated with any material or component that, when viewed from the position of the driver, obstructs the rear view of the driver or makes such window or windows nontransparent, or whenever any motor vehicle is towing another vehicle or trailer or carrying any load or cargo or object that obstructs the rear view of the driver, such vehicle shall be equipped with an exterior mirror on each side so located with respect to the position of the driver as to comply with the visual requirement of subsection (1) of this section.

(3) Any person who violates any provision of this section commits a class B traffic infraction.

Connecticut

Sec. 14-99. Mirror. Motor vehicles with commercial registration to allow others to pass. Each motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror attached to and so located and adjusted on such vehicle as to give the operator thereof a clear reflected view of the highway directly to the rear of or on a line parallel to the left side of the body of such motor vehicle. Any person operating a motor vehicle with a commercial registration so constructed or which may be so loaded that the operator is prevented from having a free and unobstructed view of the highway immediately to the rear and at the left side of the same shall, by means of such mirror, make frequent observations of the approach of vehicles from the rear. When operating at below the posted speed limits and when so approached or overtaken, the operator of such motor vehicle shall drive to the extreme right of the traveled way as promptly as safety will permit, giving the vehicle approaching from the rear opportunity to pass. Violation of any provision of this section shall be an infraction.

(1949 Rev., S. 2446; February, 1965, P.A. 448, S. 11; P.A. 75-577, S. 56, 126; P.A. 90-263, S. 64, 74.)

History: 1965 act added the word "left" in the first and second sentences, changed the duty of constant observation to one of frequent observations, removed the words "in safety" from the end of the last sentence and deleted a penalty provision; P.A. 75-577 provided that violation of section is an infraction; P.A. 90-263 substituted "motor vehicle with a commercial registration" for "commercial motor vehicle".

Allegation that driver did not keep a constant observation of approach of vehicles from rear is sufficient to raise issue of compliance with this statute. 119 C. 595, 596. Requires driver to keep such a regularly recurring observation of mirror as will make him aware of vehicles approaching in rear. 122 C. 216. Cited. 129 C. 13. Cited. 134 C. 644.

Delaware

Added: 5-9-09 CHAPTER 43. EQUIPMENT AND CONSTRUCTION OF VEHICLES Subchapter 1. Equipment Requirements

Title 21: Chapter 43: Subchapter 1 Equipment Requirements

§ 4308. Rearview mirror.
All motor vehicles and motorcycles shall be equipped with a mirror so placed that the driver thereof may readily ascertain the presence of any vehicle traveling in the same direction and overtaking the driver's vehicle.
36 Del. Laws, c. 10, § 125; Code 1935, § 5663; 21 Del. C. 1953, § 4308; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1.

§ 4315. Penalties for §§ 4301-4316.
(a) ...
(b) Whoever violates §§ 4306-4311 of this title, except for § 4306(c) of this title, shall for the first offense be fined not less than $10 nor more than $28.75. For each subsequent like offense, the person shall be fined not less than $28.75 nor more than $100. ...
(c) ...
(d) ...
(e) In case of any violation of §§ 4301-4316 of this title by any common carrier or person operating under a permit or certificate issued by any public authority, in addition to the penalties prescribed in this section, such permit or certificate shall be revoked or, in the discretion of the issuing authority suspended until such sections are satisfactorily complied with.
36 Del. Laws, c. 10, §§ 141, 142; 37 Del. Laws, c. 10, § 34; 38 Del. Laws, c. 30; 40 Del. Laws, c. 35, § 6; 40 Del. Laws, c. 37, § 1; Code 1935, §§ 5679, 5680, 5719; 45 Del. Laws, c. 292, § 2; 46 Del. Laws, c. 61; 21 Del. C. 1953, § 4315; 65 Del. Laws, c. 503, § 22; 68 Del. Laws, c. 9, §§ 41-43; 70 Del. Laws, c. 186, § 1; 74 Del. Laws, c. 399, §§ 2, 3; 75 Del. Laws, c. 164, § 2.

Florida

Title XXIII MOTOR VEHICLES Chapter 316 STATE UNIFORM TRAFFIC CONTROL View Entire Chapter

316.294 Mirrors.--Every vehicle, operated singly or when towing any other vehicle, shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the motor vehicle. A violation of this section is a noncriminal traffic infraction, punishable as a nonmoving violation as provided in chapter 318.

History.--s. 1, ch. 71-135; s. 1, ch. 76-31; s. 207, ch. 99-248.

Note.--Former s. 316.273

316.2954 Windows behind the driver; restrictions on sunscreening material.-- (Edited for relavent content) A person shall not operate any motor vehicle upon any public highway, road, or street, on which vehicle the rear window is composed of, covered by, or treated with any material which has the effect of making the window nontransparent, unless the vehicle is equipped with side mirrors on both sides that meet the requirements of s. 316.294.

Georgia

Added: 5-9-09 Motor Vehicle Division

Hawaii

[1]

Sec. 15-19.29 Rear vision mirror required.

Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror or mirrors so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle. (Sec. 15-19.29, R.O. 1978 (1983 Ed.))

Idaho

[2]

Mirrors: All motor vehicles must have a rear view mirror that provides a view of the highway for at least 200 feet to the rear. If a load or trailer obscures the driver’s normal view through the rear window, the vehicle must have two additional rear view mirrors, one on each side of the vehicle.

Illinois

Added: 5-9-09 Illinois Vehicle Code - 625 ILCS 5, Section 12-502

Mirrors. Every motor vehicle, operated singly or when towing another vehicle, shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such motor vehicle.

Indiana

IC 9-19-12-1 Safety requirements Sec. 1. A motor vehicle that is constructed or loaded so as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear from the driver's position must be equipped with a mirror located so as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred (200) feet to the rear of the vehicle. As added by P.L.2-1991, SEC.7.

Iowa

Added: 5-9-09 Iowa Motor Vehicle Division

Kansas

Kansas Statute Section 8-1740

Chapter 8.--AUTOMOBILES AND OTHER VEHICLES

Article 17.--UNIFORM ACT REGULATING TRAFFIC; EQUIPMENT OF VEHICLES

8-1740. Mirrors.

(a) After January 1, 1975, every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror mounted on the left side of the vehicle and so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.

(b) Every motor vehicle, except a motorcycle, shall be equipped with an additional mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or outside the vehicle on the right side and so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.

(c) All mirrors required by regulations of the United States department of transportation shall be maintained in good condition.

History: L. 1974, ch. 33, § 8-1740; July 1.

Kentucky

Added: 5-9-09 Kentucky Revised Statutes

Title XVI: Chapter 189 Traffic Regulations - Vehicle Equipment and Storage

189.130 Mirrors.
(1) Except as provided in subsection (4) of this section, every motor vehicle shall be equipped with the following mirrors so located and adjusted as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle: (a) One (1) mounted on the left side of the vehicle; and (b) one (1) mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or on the right side of the vehicle.
(2) No person shall, by himself or through his agent or servant, operate a motor vehicle upon the highways without the equipment required in subsection (1). Each day of operation without the equipment shall constitute a separate offense.
(3) No personal shall sell, barter, or otherwise dispose of any motor vehicle described in subsection (1) unless it is equipped with a mirror as provided in that subsection.
(4) A motorcycle shall be required only to have the mirror identified in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) of this section.
Effective: 12 July 2006
History: Amended 2006 Ky. Acts ch. 173, sec. 9, effective 12 July 2006. - Recodified 1942 Ky. Acts ch. 208, sec. 1, effective 1 October 1942, from Ky. Stat. secs. 2739g-69a, 2739i-1 to 2739i-3.

Penalties 189.990 and 9

Louisiana

Added: 5-9-09 Louisiana Motor Vehicle Commission

Maine

Title 29-A Chapter 17

§1913. Mirrors 1. Mirrors required. A person may not operate on a public way a vehicle so constructed, equipped, loaded or used that the operator is prevented from having a constantly free and unobstructed view of the way immediately to the rear, unless there is attached a mirror or reflector placed and adjusted to afford the operator a clear, reflected view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle for a distance of at least 200 feet. [ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]

2. Temporary mirrors. When a vehicle is operated without a trailer or semitrailer, temporary outside rearview mirrors must be removed or otherwise adjusted so as not to extend beyond the width of the automobile. [ 1993, c. 683, Pt. A, §2 (NEW); 1993, c. 683, Pt. B, §5 (AFF) .]

3. Motorcycles. A motorcycle must be equipped with a rear view mirror mounted and adjusted to afford the operator a clear, reflected view of the highway in the rear for a distance of at least 200 feet. [ 2005, c. 577, §26 (AMD) .]

SECTION HISTORY 1993, c. 683, §A2 (NEW). 1993, c. 683, §B5 (AFF). 2005, c. 577, §26 (AMD).

Maryland

[3]

§22–403.

(a) Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with at least one mirror located to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle.

(b) Every motor vehicle registered in this State shall be equipped with an outside mirror on the driver’s side located to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle and along the driver’s side of the vehicle. This subsection does not apply to motorcycles, which are governed by subsection (c) of this section.

(c) Every motorcycle shall be equipped with two rearview mirrors, one each attached to the right and left handlebars, which shall meet applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.

(d) Where the view through the inside rearview mirror is obstructed, two outside rearview mirrors are required.

Massachusetts

Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with at least one mirror so placed and adjusted as to afford the operator a clear, reflected view of the highway to the rear and left side of the vehicle.
Massachusetts General Laws - Chapter 90, Section 7

Michigan

257.708 Mirrors.

Sec. 708.

A person shall not drive a motor vehicle on a highway which is so constructed or loaded as to prevent the driver from obtaining a view of the highway to the rear by looking backward from the driver's position, unless the vehicle is equipped with a mirror located so as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle. In addition all motor vehicles shall be equipped with an outside rearview mirror on the driver's side which shall be positioned to give the driver a rearviewing angle from the driver's side of the vehicle, except a motor vehicle licensed as an historic vehicle if the vehicle was not originally equipped with an outside rearview mirror.

Rearview mirrors may be positioned on the helmet or visor worn by the operator of a motorcycle if the helmet is securely attached to the head of the operator. Every commercial vehicle of 1/2 ton capacity or more, operating upon the public highways of this state, shall be equipped with 2 mirrors, 1 on each side, adjusted so that the operator shall have a clear view of the highway behind the commercial vehicle. The outside mirrors shall not be considered to be a part of the vehicle for the purpose of determining the maximum width under section 717.

Michigan Legislature - Section 257.708

Minnesota

169.70 REAR VIEW MIRROR.
Every motor vehicle which is so constructed, loaded or connected with another vehicle as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear thereof from the driver's position shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle.

History: (2720-259) 1937 c 464 s 109

Mississippi

Added: 5-9-09 63-7-57. Mirrors.

Title 63: Chapter 7 Equipment and Identification

SEC. 63-7-57. Mirrors.
Every motor vehicle which is so constructed or loaded as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear thereof from the driver's position shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.
SOURCES: Codes, 1942, Sec. 8252; Laws, 1938, ch. 200.

Missouri

Mirrors: All motor vehicles which are so constructed or loaded that the operator cannot see the road behind such vehicle by looking back or around the side of such vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror so adjusted as to reveal the road behind and be visible from the operator's seat.

So I interpret this as, you don't need any mirrors at all as long as you can look out the rear window or stick your head out the side window and look backwards.

From: § 307.170. — Other equipment of motor vehicles--violations, penalty. - Missouri § 307.170. — Other equipment of motor vehicles--violations, penalty.

All motor vehicles which were equipped by the manufacturer with an inside mirror and all 1968 and later model vehicles manufactured with both an inside and a driver's side outside mirror, shall be equipped in like manner. Do not inspect passenger side outside mirrors.

From: State Inspection Requirements page 39 http://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/PatrolDivisions/MVI/documents/MVIRegulationsManual.pdf

Montana

61-9-404. Mirrors

61-9-404. Mirrors. A motor vehicle must be equipped with a mirror that reflects to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the motor vehicle.

Nebraska

Added: 5-9-09 Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles

Nevada

Added: 5-9-09 Nevada Motor Vehicle Laws

NRS: Chapter 484 Traffic Laws

NRS 484.541 General requirements for equipment.
1. A person shall not drive, move, stop or park any vehicle, or cause or knowingly permit any vehicle to be driven, moved, stopped or parked, except for purposes of repair, on any highway if such vehicle: (a) Is in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person or property or (b) is not equipped with lamps, reflectors, brakes, horn and other warning and signaling devices, windows, windshield, mirrors, safety glass, mufflers, fenders and tires, and other parts and equipment in the position, condition and adjustment required by the laws of this State as to such parts and equipment of a vehicle on the highways of the State at the time, under the conditions and for the purposes provided in such laws.
2. With respect to any vehicle being driven, moved, stopped or parked on any highway, it is unlawful for any person to do any act forbidden, or fail to perform any act required, by the laws of this State relating to the lamps, brakes, fenders and other parts and equipment, size, weight and load as to such vehicle on the highways.
3. ...
(Added to NRS by 1969, 1203, 1507)

NRS 484.613 Mirrors on trucks. Every truck using the highways of this State, having a body of such width or height that obscures a view of the road to the rear, shall be equipped with a mirror carried in such position that the driver of the truck shall be able to see reflected in the mirror traffic approaching from the rear.
[20:166:1925; NCL § 4370]—(Substituted in revision for NRS 484.480)

NRS 484.617 Mirrors on all motor vehicles. On and after January 1, 1970, every motor vehicle, operated singly or when towing any other vehicle, shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such motor vehicle.
(Added to NRS by 1969, 1208)

NRS: Chapter 486 Motorcycles and Similar Vehicles

NRS 486.311 Mirrors. Every motorcycle or moped shall be equipped with two mirrors, each containing a reflection surface not less than 3 inches in diameter, with one mirror mounted on each handlebar, in positions enabling the driver to view clearly the highway for a distance of 200 feet to the rear.
(Added to NRS by 1971, 1470; A 1975, 1084)

New Hampshire

Chapter 266:55 Equipment of Vehicles

266:55 Mirrors. – No person shall drive upon any way any closed motor vehicle, or motor vehicle so constructed, equipped, or loaded that the driver is prevented from having a constantly free and unobstructed view of the way immediately in the rear, unless there is attached to the vehicle a mirror or reflector so placed and adjusted as to afford the driver a clear, reflected view of the way in the rear of the vehicle.

Source. 1921, 119:6. PL 103:8. RL 119:12. RSA 263:22. 1981, 146:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1982.

Added: 5-29-09 Saf-C 3200

Saf-C 3217.04 Outside Rear View Mirrors.
(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the left hand outside rear view mirror:
- (1) Is not in the correct location on the vehicle;
- (2) Is not firmly mounted;
- (3) Has cracks;
- (4) Extends to the left of the vehicle body more than necessary; or
- (5) Does not afford a clear view of the road to the rear of the vehicle.

Saf-C 3217.05 Inside Rear View Mirror.
(a) A vehicle shall be rejected if the inside rearview mirror:
- (1) Is loose, so that the driver’s rear vision is impaired;
- (2) Is located in a position that does not give the driver a clear view of the road at least 200 feet to the rear of the vehicle;
- (3) Is cracked or broken;
- (4) Has sharp edges; or
- (5) Does not stay in position when adjusted.
(b) If the rear of the vehicle is blocked, the vehicle shall be exempt from having a rearview mirror, as long as the vehicle is equipped with outside mirrors on the left and the right.

New Jersey

Added: 4-28-09 Regulation: 39:3-71.Mirrors

Every motor vehicle shall have rear view mirrors so located and angled as to give the driver adequate rear view vision. Every passenger automobile manufactured after January 1, 1965 and registered in this State, shall be equipped with an interior mirror and an exterior mirror on the driver's side. On and after January 1, 1965, every commercial motor vehicle registered in this State, other than a trailer or semitrailer, shall be equipped with an interior mirror and an exterior mirror on the driver's side, except that every such vehicle so constructed or loaded as to obstruct or obscure a rear view from an interior mirror shall, in lieu of an interior mirror, be equipped with an exterior mirror on the side of the vehicle opposite the driver's side. The director may by regulation establish other mirror requirements for special or unusual types of vehicles. Any person operating a motor vehicle without the equipment prescribed by this section shall, on conviction, be fined as provided in Revised Statutes 39:3-79.

Amended by L.1964, c. 119, s. 1.

New Mexico

Added: 5-9-09 Conway Greene Co. - New Mexico Statues and Rules

Chapter 66: Article 3: Part 9 Equipment

66-3-845. Mirrors.
Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

New York

Vehicle and Traffic Laws Title 3, Article 9, § 375. Equipment.

10. a. Every motor vehicle, when driven or operated upon a public highway, shall be equipped with a mirror or other reflecting device so adjusted that the operator of such vehicle shall have a clear and full view of the road and condition of traffic behind such vehicle.

...

c. Every passenger motor vehicle registered in this state (snip) shall be equipped with adjustable interior mirrors meeting specifications established by the commissioner which specifications may provide minimum and maximum reflectance values.

10-a. It shall be unlawful (snip) to operate on any public highway in this state (snip) unless such vehicle is equipped with an adjustable side view mirror which shall be affixed to the left outside of such vehicle and which shall be adjustable so that the operator of such vehicle may have a clear view of the road and condition of traffic on the left side and to the rear of such vehicle.

Snipped out information about older vehicles. Full searchable NY laws

NYS DMV Motor Vehicle Inspection Regulations (CR-78) CR-79.21.g

Inspect mirrors for proper location and mounting. Reject if:

1. (a) 1967 and older model not equipped with at least one mirror, either an interior or left outside mirror. (b) 1968 and newer model not equipped with a left outside mirror. (c) 1970 and newer model not equipped with an adjustable interior mirror in addition to the left outside mirror, unless the vehicle is equipped with dual outside mirrors. (Amended 5/4/05) (d) Truck-tractor does not have both a left and right outside rear view mirror. (e) There is no left and right outside mirror on a vehicle with a permanent obstruction of the rear window. (f) Any mirror cannot be properly adjusted to provide a clear and full view to the rear. (g) Any mirror is not securely mounted. (Added 12/22/99)

North Carolina

[4]

§ 20‑126. Mirrors.

(a) No person shall drive a motor vehicle on the streets or highways of this State unless equipped with an inside rearview mirror of a type approved by the Commissioner, which provides the driver with a clear, undistorted, and reasonably unobstructed view of the highway to the rear of such vehicle; provided, a vehicle so constructed or loaded as to make such inside rearview mirror ineffective may be operated if equipped with a mirror of a type to be approved by the Commissioner located so as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of such vehicle. A violation of this subsection shall not constitute negligence per se in civil actions. Farm tractors, self‑propelled implements of husbandry and construction equipment and all self‑propelled vehicles not subject to registration under this Chapter are exempt from the provisions of this section. Provided that pickup trucks equipped with an outside rearview mirror approved by the Commissioner shall be exempt from the inside rearview mirror provision of this section. Any inside mirror installed in any motor vehicle by its manufacturer shall be deemed to comply with the provisions of this subsection.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate upon the highways of this State any vehicle manufactured, assembled or first sold on or after January 1, 1966 and registered in this State unless such vehicle is equipped with at least one outside mirror mounted on the driver's side of the vehicle. Mirrors herein required shall be of a type approved by the Commissioner.

(c) No person shall operate a motorcycle upon the streets or highways of this State unless such motorcycle is equipped with a rearview mirror so mounted as to provide the operator with a clear, undistorted and unobstructed view of at least 200 feet to the rear of the motorcycle. No motorcycle shall be registered in this State after January 1, 1968, unless such motorcycle is equipped with a rearview mirror as described in this section. Violation of the provisions of this subsection shall not be considered negligence per se or contributory negligence per se in any civil action. (1937, c. 407, s. 89; 1965, c. 368; 1967, c. 282, s. 1; c. 674, s. 2; c. 1139; 2002‑159, ss. 22(a), 22(b).)

North Dakota

Added: 5-11-09 North Dakota Century Code

Title 39 - Motor Vehicles

Chapter 39-21 Equipment of Vehicles
39-21-38. Mirror. On and after 1 January 1964, every motor vehicle, operated singly or when towing any other vehicle, must be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet [60.96 meters] to the rear of such motor vehicle.

Chapter 39-27 Motorcycle Equipment
39-27-10. Mirror. Every motorcycle must be equipped with at least one mirror of unit magnification, securely affixed to the handlebar and capable of adjustment within a range that will reflect an image that includes at least the horizon and the road surface to the rear of the motorcycle. Such a mirror must consist of a minimum reflective surface of ten square inches [64.52 square centimeters]. All mirrors shall not contain sharp edges or projections capable of producing injury.

Ohio

[5]

4513.23 Rear view mirror.

(A) Every motor vehicle, motorcycle, and trackless trolley shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the operator a view of the highway to the rear of such vehicle, motorcycle, or trackless trolley. Operators of vehicles, motorcycles, streetcars, and trackless trolleys shall have a clear and unobstructed view to the front and to both sides of their vehicles, motorcycles, streetcars, or trackless trolleys and shall have a clear view to the rear of their vehicles, motorcycles, streetcars, or trackless trolleys by mirror.

(B) Whoever violates this section shall be punished as provided in section 4513.99 of the Revised Code.

Effective Date: 01-01-2004

Oklahoma

Added: 5-11-09 OSCN Found Document:Mirrors

Title 47 - Motor Vehicles
Chapter 12 - Equipment of Vehicles
Article 4 - Other Equipment
Section 12-403 - Mirrors

A. Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror mounted on the left side of the vehicle and so positioned and located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the motor vehicle.

B. Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with an additional mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or outside the vehicle on the right side and so positioned and located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.

C. ...

Historical Data

Laws 1961, p. 408, § 12-403; Amended by Laws 2003, SB 633, c. 411, § 52, eff. November 1, 2003

Oregon

Added: 5-10-09 Chapter 815 - Vehicle Equipment Generally

815.235 Operation without rearview mirror; exemptions; penalty.
(1) A person commits the offense of operation without a rearview mirror if the person does any of the following:
(a) Drives or moves on any highway any motor vehicle that is not equipped with a rearview mirror or device that meets the requirements under this section.
(b) Owns a motor vehicle and causes or knowingly permits the vehicle to be driven or moved on any highway when the vehicle is not equipped with a rearview mirror or device that meets the requirements under this section.
(2) A rearview mirror or device only meets the requirements of this section if it enables the driver of the vehicle to have such a clear and unobstructed view of the rear at all times and under all conditions of load as will enable the driver to see any other vehicle approaching from not less than 200 feet in the rear on an unobstructed road.
(3) This section does not apply to the following vehicles:
(a) Vehicles of special interest that are registered under ORS 805.020 and that were not equipped with rearview mirrors when originally manufactured.
(b) Road machinery, road rollers or farm tractors.
(c) Antique motor vehicles that are registered under 'ORS 805.010 and that were not equipped with rearview mirrors when originally manufactured.
(4) The offense described in this section, operation without a rearview mirror, is a Class C traffic violation.
[1983 c.338 §493; 1985 c.69 §3]

Pennsylvania

[6]

§ 4534. Rearview mirrors. No person shall operate a motor vehicle or combination on a highway unless the vehicle or combination is equipped with at least one mirror, or similar device, which provides the driver an unobstructed view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle or combination. This section shall not apply to any special mobile equipment, commercial implement of husbandry or implement of husbandry that is not so equipped by the original manufacturer. (June 23, 1982, P.L.605, No.171, eff. imd.; Dec. 18, 1992, P.L.1411, No.174, eff. 60 days)

Taken verbatim from PA Vehicle Code Title 75, Chapter 45, § 4534.

"One mirror, or similar device." Taken literally, means you don't need side (external) mirrors at all, as long as you have an internal rearview mirror.

This law does not apply to farm equipment, vehicles which were originally not equipped (and are so maintained in specific condition), and special mobility vehicles, such as pedal bikes and certain scooter-type devices. Interpreted from several other sections in PA statutes.

Highway, in PA Vehicle code, refers to pretty much all public roads.

Rhode Island

Chapter 31 - 23

§ 31-23-15 Rear-view mirror. – (a) Every motor vehicle which is so constructed or loaded as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear of it from the driver's position shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet (200') to the rear of the vehicle.

(b) Every motor vehicle, the primary function of which is the carrying of passengers, shall be equipped with a rear-view mirror on the left front door or fender, so located as to reflect a view of the highway for at least two hundred feet (200') to the rear of the vehicle.

(c) Violations of this section are subject to fines enumerated in § 31-41.1-4.

South Carolina

[7]

SECTION 56-5-4990. Mirrors.

Every motor vehicle which is so constructed or loaded as to obstruct the driver's view to the rear thereof from the driver's position shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

South Dakota

SD VEHICLE AND ACCESSORY SPECIFICATIONS 32:15:(1-36)

32:15:8 REAR-VISION MIRRORS REQUIRED

Rear-vision mirrors required--Visibility distance--Violation as petty offense. Every motor vehicle entitled to be licensed in South Dakota shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle, whether operated singly or towing another vehicle. A violation of this section is a petty offense.

Source: SDC 1939, § 44.0348; SL 1967, ch 198; SL 1989, ch 255, § 36.

Tennessee

Added: 4-28-09 Legal Resources

Title 55: Chapter 9: Part 2 Required Equipment on Vehicles

55-9-206. Trucks to be equipped with rearview mirror. —
Any motor truck using the streets, roads, highways, and other public thoroughfares, which, by reason of its construction, either when loaded or unloaded, prevents the driver's view of the rear, shall be equipped with a mirror arranged in a manner and maintained so that the driver or operator may view the roadway to the rear and note the approach of vehicles from the rear of the motor truck.
[Acts 1923, ch. 53, § 1; Shan. Supp., § 1616a10; Code 1932, § 2709; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-921.]

55-9-207. Penalty for operating truck without rearview mirror. —
Any person driving a motor truck without a rearview mirror, and the owner of the motor truck, operated upon any public thorough fare, in violation of § 55-9-206, commits a Class C misdemeanor.
[Acts 1923, ch. 53, § 2; Shan. Supp., § 1616a11; Code 1932, § 2710; T.C.A. (orig. ed.), § 59-922; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.]

Title 55: Chapter 9: Part 3 Required Equipment on Motorcycles and Motor Driven Cycles

55-9-305. Rearview mirrors and footrests. —
All motorcycles and motor-driven cycles operated upon any highway or public road of this state shall be equipped with a rearview mirror and securely attached footrests for the operators and passengers on all motorcycles and motor-driven cycles.
[Acts 1968, ch. 493, § 1; 1976, ch. 758, § 3; T.C.A., § 59-937; Acts 2005, ch. 136, § 1.]

55-9-306. Violation of this part — Penalty. —
A violation of this part is a Class C misdemeanor.
[Acts 1967, ch. 45, § 5 (T.C.A. (supp.), § 50-947); T.C.A., § 59-938; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.]

Texas

Added: 5-10-09 State Vehicle Inspection Procedures

Chapter 4 - Inspection Procedures
04.20.00 Details Of Inspection

20.19 Mirror - Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of such motor vehicle.

1. Inspection Procedure
     A. Inspect only one mirror.
         1. Exterior Rearview Mirror: From the driver’s position, visually inspect exterior mirror for a clear and reasonably unobstructed view to the rear. Look for correct location and stable mounting.
         2. Interior Rearview Mirror: From the driver’s position, visually inspect interior mirror for proper mounting, location, cracks, sharp edges, and ease of adjustment.

2. Inspect for and reject if:
     A. Mirror does not provide the driver with a clear view to the rear of 200 feet.
     B. Vehicle is not equipped with at least one mirror.
     C. Mirror offers unsafe interference with driver’s forward vision.
     D. Reflective surface of mirror is cracked, broken, peeled, tarnished, or has sharp edges.
     E. Mirror is not mounted securely to prevent swing or excessive vibration unless the vehicle is equipped with another mirror which meets requirements.

NOTE: An inside mirror would meet all the above requirements. If the vehicle is equipped with more than one mirror, only one, either inside or outside, needs to meet all requirements.

Utah

41-6a-1627. Mirrors.
Added: 4-28-09 Legal Resources
(1) (a) A motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror mounted on the left side of the vehicle.
      (b) A mirror under Subsection (1)(a) shall be located to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.
(2) (a) Except for a motorcycle, in addition to the mirror required under Subsection (1), a motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or outside the vehicle on the right side.
      (b) The mirror under Subsection (2)(a) shall be located to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.

Vermont

Title 23 Chapter 13 1305. Mirror required

§ 1305. Mirror required

All motor trucks and motor vehicles towing a trailer or semi-trailer shall be equipped with a mirror not less than five inches in diameter or with less than 25 square inches of reflective area so attached that the driver shall at all times have a reflected view of other vehicles approaching from the rear. The mirror shall be attached in a manner that complies with the width requirements of section 1431 of this title. The extended rear-view mirror shall be retracted or removed when not towing a trailer or semi-trailer. (Amended 2001, No. 18, § 1, eff. May 8, 2001.)

Virginia

Code § 46.2-1082 sets out the requirements for mirrors on a vehicle.

That code section provides:No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a highway in the Commonwealth if the vehicle is not equipped with a mirror which reflects to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of not less than 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle. No motor vehicle registered in the Commonwealth, designed and licensed primarily for passenger vehicular transportation on the public highways and manufactured after 1968 shall be driven on the highways in the Commonwealth unless equipped with at least one outside and at least one inside rear view mirror meeting the requirements of this section.Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, no motor vehicle which either has no rear window, or which has a rear window so obstructed as to prevent rearward vision by means of an inside rear view mirror, shall be required to be equipped with an inside rear view mirror if such motor vehicle has horizontally and vertically adjustable outside rear view mirrors installed on both sides of such motor vehicle in such a manner as to provide the driver of such motor vehicle a rearward view along both sides of such motor vehicle for at least 200 feet.

Washington

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RCW 46.37.400

Mirrors, backup devices.

(1) Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a mirror mounted on the left side of the vehicle and so located to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

(2) Every motor vehicle shall be equipped with an additional mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or outside the vehicle on the right side and so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway for a distance of at least two hundred feet to the rear of such vehicle.

(3) Every truck registered or based in Washington that is equipped with a cube-style, walk-in cargo box up to eighteen feet long used in the commercial delivery of goods and services must be equipped with a rear crossview mirror or backup device to alert the driver that a person or object is behind the truck.

(4) All mirrors and backup devices required by this section shall be maintained in good condition. Rear crossview mirrors and backup devices will be of a type approved by the Washington state patrol.

[1998 c 2 § 1; 1977 ex.s. c 355 § 34; 1963 c 154 § 25; 1961 c 12 § 46.37.400. Prior: 1955 c 269 § 40; prior: 1937 c 189 § 37; RRS § 6360-37; RCW 46.36.060.]

Notes:

Effective date -- 1998 c 2: "This act takes effect September 30, 1998." [1998 c 2 § 2.]

Severability -- 1977 ex.s. c 355: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

Effective date -- 1963 c 154: See note following RCW 46.37.010.

Motorcycles and motor-driven cycles -- Additional requirements and limitations: RCW 46.37.539.

West Virginia

Added: 5-11-09 Division of Motor Vehicles

Wisconsin

Added: 5-11-09 Wisconsin motor vehicle laws - Wisconsin Department of Transportation

Chapter 347 - Equipment of Vehicles

347.40 Mirrors.
(1) No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon a highway unless such vehicle is equipped with a mirror so located as to reflect to the operator a view of the roadway for a distance of 200 feet to the rear of such vehicle.
(2) ...
(3) No person may operate or permit the operation of any motor bus on a highway unless the bus is equipped with 2 outside rearview mirrors, one to the right and one to the left of the operator. Each mirror shall have not less than 50 square inches of unobstructed reflective surface and shall be firmly supported and adjustable to give the operator a clear view past both the right and left rear of the bus.
History: 1975 c. 84; 1987 a. 235.
Cross Reference: See also ss. Trans 305.26 and 305.44, Wis. adm. code.

Wyoming

Added: 5-11-09 Wyoming Statutes

Title 31 - Motor Vehicles
Chapter 5 - Regulation of Traffic on Highways
Article 9 - Equipment

31-5-954. Mirrors.
(a) On or before January 1, 1986, every motor vehicle including motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, multipurpose vehicles and mopeds shall be equipped with a mirror mounted on the left side of the vehicle and so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.
(b) Every motor vehicle except a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle or moped, shall be equipped with an additional mirror mounted either inside the vehicle approximately in the center or outside the vehicle on the right side and so located as to reflect to the driver a view of the highway to the rear of the vehicle.