Going Doorless? Don’t Get Busted: The Ultimate State-by-State Jeep Mirror Law Guide

There is nothing quite like the feeling of taking the doors off your Jeep for the first time in the summer. It’s the ultimate freedom—until you see those flashing red and blue lights in your (remaining) rearview mirror.

One of the most common questions we get at WikiJeeps is: "Is it illegal to drive without side mirrors?"

The answer is a frustrating "It depends." Since factory side mirrors are attached to the doors on Wranglers and Gladiators, taking the doors off means taking the mirrors off. While some states are lenient, others will write you a ticket before you can even wave at another Jeep.

We’ve dug through the legal codes to bring you this state-by-state breakdown.

⚠️ The "Golden Rule" of Jeep Mirrors

Before we get to the state list, here is the most important advice we can give you: Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's a good idea.

Even in states where only one rearview mirror is technically required, a police officer can still pull you over if they believe your view is "obstructed" (by a large spare tire, roll bar padding, or cargo). Plus, changing lanes on the highway without side mirrors is a nightmare.

Our recommendation: Buy a cheap set of hinge-mounted mirrors or relocation brackets. It’s cheaper than a ticket and safer for everyone.

🛑 The "Strict" States: Side Mirrors Mandatory

In these states, you are generally required by law to have at least one side mirror (usually the driver's side) in addition to your windshield rearview mirror. If you take your doors off in these states without adding aftermarket mirrors, you are breaking the law.

California: Requires two mirrors, including one on the left (driver's side).

Illinois: Law requires a mirror to reflect a view of 200 feet. If your rear window view is obstructed (common in lifted Jeeps with big spares), you legally need side mirrors.

Kansas: Requires a left (driver) side mirror and either a center or right mirror.

Kentucky: Requires a driver’s side mirror and an inside rearview mirror.

Maryland: Requires a driver’s side mirror and an inside rearview mirror.

Nevada: Requires a mirror on the left (driver) side.

New Jersey: Strict. Passenger cars manufactured after 1965 must have an interior mirror and a driver’s side exterior mirror.

New York: Vehicles 1968 and newer require a driver’s side mirror. (Note: While some interpret the law as "one mirror okay if unobstructed," NY police are known to ticket for missing side mirrors).

Oklahoma: Requires a left (driver) side mirror and a center mirror.

Pennsylvania: UPDATE 2025: As of September 2024, doorless driving is explicitly legal in PA, BUT the new law specifically mandates that side mirrors must be installed if the doors are removed.

Rhode Island: Requires a left (driver) side mirror and a center mirror.

Virginia: Vehicles made after 1968 must have one outside mirror (driver's side) and one inside mirror.

Washington: Requires a left (driver) side mirror and either a center or right mirror.

🟡 The "One Mirror" States (Proceed with Caution)

In these states, the law generally says you need "at least one mirror" that provides a clear view to the rear. Technically, your windshield-mounted rearview mirror satisfies this.

However, there is a catch: most statutes say "one mirror... unless the view is obstructed." If you have a 35-inch spare tire blocking your rear window, that center mirror might not count, and you could be ticketed for not having a side mirror.

Alabama

Alaska (Requires side mirrors if towing or obstructed)

Arizona (Requires side mirrors if rear view is obstructed)

Arkansas

Colorado (Requires side mirrors if rear view is obstructed)

Connecticut

Delaware

Florida (Requires side mirrors if rear view is obstructed)

Georgia

Hawaii

Idaho

Indiana

Iowa

Louisiana

Maine

Massachusetts

Michigan (Technically one mirror is legal, but strict interpretations often require the driver's side mirror to be present if it was factory equipment).

Minnesota

Mississippi

Montana

Nebraska

New Hampshire

New Mexico

North Carolina

North Dakota

Oregon

South Carolina

South Dakota

Tennessee

Texas (Requires side mirrors if rear view is obstructed)

Utah (Left side mirror required if rear view obstructed)

Vermont (Inspection manual checks for both, but traffic law implies one is sufficient unless towing).

West Virginia

Wisconsin

Wyoming

🔍 Spotlight on Confusing States

Ohio: The "3 Mirror" Myth

You might read on forums that Ohio requires three mirrors. This is generally a myth derived from a "better safe than sorry" interpretation. Ohio Revised Code 4513.23 states you need "a mirror" (singular), but you must also have a "clear and unobstructed view" to the front, both sides, and rear. While one mirror is technically legal, having zero side mirrors could be interpreted as lacking a clear view to the "sides."

Missouri: The 1968 Cutoff

Missouri law (RSMo 307.170) is tricky. It says you need a mirror if your view is obstructed. However, inspection regulations state that any vehicle made after 1968 that came with a driver's side mirror from the factory must have it to pass inspection. If you get pulled over, a strict officer could cite you for removing safety equipment required for the vehicle's year.

Pennsylvania: Finally Legal!

For years, PA was the only state where driving doorless was arguably illegal. That changed with Act 61 of 2024. You can now legally cruise without doors, but don't forget: the bill explicitly says you must attach side mirrors to be compliant.

The Verdict

If you drive a Jeep Wrangler or Gladiator, get a driver's side mirror at a minimum. Our advice is to just get a set of Kikbax just to be safe. They're easy to install (no tools needed) and will keep you out of trouble with Johnny Law.

Even in "One Mirror" states, it prevents the hassle of being pulled over and having to argue about whether your spare tire is "obstructing" your view. Plus, they look cool and keep you safe on the trails and the tarmac.

Disclaimer: WikiJeeps.com is a community resource, not a law firm. Traffic laws are subject to change and interpretation by local law enforcement. When in doubt, check your specific state's vehicle code or local DMV.