Missouri Driving Laws
Updated: October, 2024
Summary of common traffic laws in Missouri – Speed limits, License Renewals, Learners Permits, Drunk Driving Laws, and more. For more information, visit the Missouri Traffic and Highway Safety Division website.
Speed Limits
In Missouri, the maximum speed limit for cars is 70 mph. The maximum highway speed for trucks is also 70 mph. Speed limits vary by state and, in some cases, county-by-county. Always observe posted traffic laws and drive safely for the weather and road conditions.
Learners Permits
Missouri allows new drivers to get their learners permit at the age of 15. You must have your provisional license for a minimum of 6 months. Drivers can then get their intermediate license at 16. An Intermediate License imposes restricts on when you are allowed to drive and how many passengers are allowed in the car, but allows you to drive yourself without an instructor in the car.
In Missouri, drivers can obtain their full drivers license at the age of 18.
License Renewal
Missouri requires you to renew your license every 6 years. There are additional provisions for older drivers:
View all Drivers License Renewal Info
Work Zones
The state of Missouri enforces increased penalties for speeding or passing violations within work zones. These increased penalties are known as Work Zone Enhancements. Workers must be present and there must be signs idicating road work is in progress in order for Work Zone Enhancements to be enforced. In Missouri, Work Zone Enhacements are:
Drunk Driving Laws
The legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is 0.08%. Most states impose increased mandatory penalties for driving above a specific BAC. In Missouri, driving with a BAC above 0.15% will trigger automatic enhanced minimum penalties.
Texting while Driving
Cellphones and other handheld devices are banned while driving in most states. In Missouri, hand-held devices such as phones and mp3 player are are not banned. Hands-free interaction with cellphones is allowed.
Texting while driving is not banned in Missouri. In Missouri, distracted driving is listed as a category on police crash report forms.
Seat Belt Laws
Missouri requires seabelt use. Seatbelt enforcement is concidered secondary, which means you cannot be pulled over for violating a seatbelt law. The fine for a seatbelt law violation in Missouri is $10.00. Seatbelt use laws depend on the driving experience of the driver and which seat of the car a passenger is sitting in.
Data Source
Missouri Traffic and Highway Safety Division
Data Source
United States Department of Transportation
