Is Honking Your Car Horn Illegal in Minnesota?
Sgt. Troy Christianson from the Minnesota State Patrol is always available to answer questions related to traffic laws and recently got one about whether or not it's illegal to honk your car horn in our state.
The person said that they were told that it’s illegal to honk your car horn here in Minnesota. Minnesota law clearly states that cars do need horns, certain types of horns are prohibited, and also addresses honking. Christianson explains the rule below.
Your Car Must Have A Working Horn in Minnesota:
Christianson says "every motor vehicle must be equipped with a horn in good working order and capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of not less than 200 feet."
The trooper says there are some types that are off limits. "The horn or other warning device must not emit an unreasonably loud or harsh sound or a whistle."
Is Honking Your Car Horn Illegal in Minnesota?
Honking your car horn is a no-no most of the time in Minnesota. Read what the law states below.
Minnesota Law states: "The driver of a motor vehicle shall, when reasonably necessary to insure safe operation, give audible warning with the horn, but shall not otherwise use the horn when upon a highway.”
Sgt. Christianson says he believes this law is on the books to "prevent and reduce the unnecessary honking to help avoid annoyance and harassment."
So technically you're breaking the law when you honk to greet a neighbor as your driving down your road. Imagine getting ticketed for that!
I'm not sure if anyone has ever gotten pulled over for improper horn usage, but now you know the law.
If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota you can reach out to Sgt. Troy Christianson by email - Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us