Obstructed windshields, cracked windshields, windshield replacement and other laws and regulations are different for every state. Cracked windshield laws in Washington D.C. prohibit driving vehicles where driver’s view of the road is obstructed.
Can I drive with a cracked windshield in Washington DC?
Washington D.C. laws prohibit driving with windshield cracks which obstruct clear view of the road. Also no unauthorized stickers or other objects may be attached to car windshields which prevent clear view of the road.
731.5 No motor vehicle shall be operated when the windshield is cracked, scarred, clouded, or otherwise defective so as to obstruct vision.
D.C. laws do not further clarify which windshield cracks are considered obstructive. Refer to federal regulations below.
Other laws and regulations:
- Obstructed windshield regulations: No sign, poster, or other non-transparent material allowed on windshield unless required by law.
- Replacement windshields: Replacement windshield glass must be of the same kind and quality, and any repairs should restore vehicle to its original state.
- Windshield wipers: Vehicles must be equipped with windshield wipers in good working conditions. Cracks which prevent wipers from operating correctly may be illegal.
Federal cracked windshield regulations
Federal regulations require drivers to have a clear vision of the road. Windshield cracks or chips smaller than ¾-inch in diameter are permitted if they are not located within 3″ of another crack.
Any cracks or chips or other damage which can potentially obstruct clear view of the road must not be within critical vision area, defined as area directly above the steering wheel, two inches from the top and one inch from sides.
