Texas Driving Myths That May Not Be True: The Truth Behind the Wheel

Texas drivers hear a lot of things. Some from family members, some from a friend who “totally knows the law,” a few from TikTok, and others that have just been passed down like campfire stories. But here’s the truth: a lot of what people believe about Texas driving laws simply isn’t true.

At SafeWay Driving, we’re passionate about helping drivers all over Texas understand the rules of the road (the real ones). Let’s bust some of the most common Texas driving myths and get to the facts so you can stay safe, legal, and confident every time you hit the road.

Myth #1: “Driving barefoot is illegal in Texas.”

This one comes up more than you might believe, and it sounds believable, right? But here’s the truth.

The Truth:

Driving barefoot is 100% legal in the state of Texas. In fact, it’s legal in all 50 states. No law requires you to wear shoes while driving. However, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a good idea. Driving barefoot can affect your control over the pedals, particularly in emergency situations. Flip-flops can be even worse, as they can get caught under pedals or slip off your foot, which is why we do not allow students to complete their lessons in them.

While you won’t get pulled over for wearing bare feet, it’s still wise to drive in secure, closed-toe shoes that provide good pedal control.

Myth #2: “You don’t have to stop for a school bus if you’re on the other side of a divided driveway.”

This myth is a little more complicated, which is why it causes confusion.

The Truth:

In Texas, you MUST stop for a school bus with flashing red lights, unless the road is separated by a physical barrier or raised median, regardless of the direction the bus is traveling. If it’s just a painted line, you must stop, no matter what direction you’re coming from.

School bus-related crashes are rare but often severe. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, school transportation-related crashes killed an average of 113 people per year from 2012 to 2021. Many of those happened when drivers ignored school bus laws. Better safe than sorry, and if in doubt, stop for the bus.

Myth #3: “Hands-free means distraction-free.”

Now that Texas has banned texting while driving, many people think using Bluetooth or voice-activated systems is completely safe. That’s only partially true,

The Truth:

While hands-free is legal, it doesn’t mean you’re fully focused. Studies from the National Safety Council show that hands-free phone use still causes cognitive distraction. Your hands might be on the wheel, but your mind isn’t fully on the road.

Texas law prohibits drivers under 18 from using any mobile device, even if it’s hands-free. If you’re an adult, it’s still smart to keep calls short and avoid distractions entirely when traffic is heavy or conditions are bad. Or even better, focus entirely on the road and take care of calls when you arrive at your destination.

Myth #4: “You have to wait three seconds at a stop sign.”

We’ve all heard the “three-second rule” when stopping at a stop sign. But where did that come from?

The Truth:

There is no actual law in Texas that requires you to wait three seconds. The law simply states that drivers must come to a complete stop; your vehicle must come to a complete halt. No rolling stop when approaching a stop.

That being said, pausing for a moment (even if it’s not a full three seconds) is a good practice to ensure visibility and safety before proceeding. It gives you time to look for pedestrians, bikes, or cross traffic. So while it’s not the law, it’s still smart driving.

Myth #5: “You can turn left on red from a one-way to a one-way street in Texas.”

This one is tricky because it’s actually true, but with a catch, and in only certain scenarios.

The Truth:

Yes, you can turn left on red in Texas, but only when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street, and only after coming to a complete stop. It’s basically the left-turn version of a right-on-red.

However, if there’s a sign that says “No Turn on Red,” then the turn is illegal, even on a one-way street. Always watch for signs before you assume the rule applies.

Myth #6: “You only need to use your turn signal when other cars are around.”

If a turn signal is on and no one is around to see it, does it still matter? 

The Truth:

Texas law requires drivers to signal for every turn or lane change, even if you think no one is around to see it. The rule is there to encourage consistent habits and protect all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists.

Besides, failing to signal is a ticketable offense and can be used against you in the event of a crash. Why risk it? Flip the lever, it takes less than a second, and becomes second nature.

Myth #7: “Yellow means speed up before the light turns red.”

We’ve all seen it: drivers punching the gas when the light turns yellow. But is that what yellow is really for?

The Truth:

Absolutely not. A yellow light is a warning to slow down and prepare to stop, not a signal to accelerate. In fact, running a red light is one of the leading causes of urban crashes in Texas.

According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), in 2022 alone, red light running crashes caused 1,149 deaths in the U.S. It’s not just illegal; it’s deadly.

Myth #8: “You can always drive 5 mph over the speed limit.”

This might be the most widespread myth in Texas and across the country. Other iterations are 10% over; 10% over + 2 miles per hour. Regardless, what is the “grace zone” for speeding?

The Truth:

There is no grace zone written into Texas law. The posted speed limit is the maximum speed allowed by law. While some officers may not choose to ticket for going a few miles over the speed limit, others won’t hesitate.

Driving even slightly over the limit can increase your risk of a crash. Speeding reduces your ability to react and increases stopping distance. At the end of the day, it’s smarter to follow the posted limits.

Myth #9: “You don’t need insurance if you’re just learning.”

Some parents think their teen doesn’t need to be added to their insurance policy until after they get their license. That myth could lead to big problems.

The Truth:

In Texas, even learners license holders must be covered by insurance when operating a vehicle. Whether they’re listed on the parents’ policy or covered separately, insurance must be in place anytime they’re behind the wheel.

Skipping insurance during this stage not only risks incurring huge out-of-pocket costs in the event of a crash, but it’s also against the law. Be sure to notify your provider once your teen starts learning to drive.

Myth #10: “Drivers ed is optional if you’re 18 or older.”

Yes and no. Adults don’t go through the full teen GDL program, but they still have training requirements.

The Truth:

First-time drivers aged 18-24 must take a six-hour driver education course approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Even if you’re over 25, it’s highly recommended if you’ve never driven before.

At SafeWay Driving, we offer programs tailored to adult learners to help build confidence and skills fast. You’re never too old to learn to drive the right way.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Myths Drive Your Decisions

It’s easy to pick up bad info from friends, TikTok, or even well-meaning family members. But when it comes to staying legal and safe behind the wheel, facts matter.

Now that you’ve got the truth about these top Texas driving myths, you’re better prepared to drive with confidence and to pass that knowledge on to the next generation of drivers.

Want more tips from the pros? SafeWay Driving is here to help. Whether you’re learning to drive for the first time or helping your teen get started, we have trusted, TDLR-approved programs for the state of Texas.