Training as a truck driver means you learn as much as you can about driving in the United States. For the most part, state laws are very similar and easy to follow — but sometimes a state throws a legal curveball that can cost you real time and money if you don’t know about it. 

From unexpected idling bans to outlawed left turns, some laws feel more like traps than regulations. But when you know about these weird state laws, you can avoid derailing your route.

California: You’ve Got Five Minutes or Less To Idle

California bans diesel trucks from idling for more than five minutes. In some towns, you're not allowed to idle at all.

Why it matters: Imagine you're resting in triple-digit heat. If you leave your truck running without an APU or battery system, you could face steep fines, even if you’re just trying to stay cool.

What to do: Use an auxiliary power unit to keep your cabin cool.

Florida: No Parking on Ramps, Period

In Florida, parking on highway ramps isn’t just frowned upon; it’s illegal. Even if you need to be off the clock, you have to find an appropriate parking spot.

What to do: Plan your stops in advance by using apps like Trucker Path or Park My Trucks.

Idaho: Chain Law, Even in Sunny Weather

There are times when commercial vehicles may need to use chains to traverse Idaho’s roadways. Conditions can be harsh, and failing to use them appropriately can result in fines.

What to do: Keep chains on board just in case. The law's the law.

Illinois: Legal Weight, but Illegal Axle Spread

Illinois enforces strict bridge laws based on axle spacing, not just weight. So even if your ticket from Missouri shows you’re under gross, you could still get flagged at an Illinois scale when passing through.

What to do: Double-check your spread and consult the Illinois Department of Transportation (DOT) bridge law guidelines.

New Jersey: Left Turns? Not So Fast

New Jersey loves its jughandles: looping turn lanes that replace standard left turns in many towns. Miss one, and you’re rerouting through heavy traffic with tight corners.

What to do: Trust your truck GPS and never assume a left turn is available.

Pennsylvania: Jake Brake? Better Be Quiet

Many Pennsylvania towns ban unmuffled engine brakes. Even if you're hauling downhill safely, if you brake loudly and there’s a sign posted, you're at risk for a citation.

What to do: Make sure your Jake is quieted with proper muffling.

Oregon: Mind the Mud Flaps

Your mud flaps must hang no more than 18 inches from the ground. It’s a detail often overlooked but easily ticketed.

To-do: Add mud flap checks to your pre-trip checklist. Oregon enforces this rule tightly.

Why Are There So Many Differences?

States write their own laws to fit local terrain, weather, and population. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets national standards, but state laws often go further, catching out-of-state drivers off guard. For example, your truck could be legal in Nevada but “out of compliance” ten miles into California due to idling or emissions restrictions.

FAQ: How Drivers Can Stay Ahead of Weird State Laws

How can drivers avoid a banned route?

Use a truck-specific GPS that includes legal routes and restriction alerts.

How can drivers get updates about local law enforcement?

Download Drivewyze or PrePass for real-time enforcement updates.

How can you ensure you have a legal place to park?

Plan your stops with apps that track parking and closures.

What’s the best way to avoid legal penalties while transporting goods across state lines?

Stay connected with your carrier. At Pride Transport, our safety team sends updates to keep you in the clear.

Share these tips with other drivers. Most drivers learn about these quirks the hard way, but learning from one another can ensure you’re safer on the road and avoid unnecessary penalties.

Learn Weird State Laws, Avoid Harsh Fines

Weird state laws aren’t just something to learn about during trivia; they’re need-to-know rules. Remember: Failing to know about the law won’t protect you against potential tickets and fines. 

You don’t have to let an unexpected rule cost you money, time, or your safety score. Work with a company that keeps you one step ahead of oddball enforcement zones with Pride Transport. 

We’ve got your back with helpful training and education that keeps you on the right side of the law, no matter where the road takes you. Apply now to drive with Pride.