Is it illegal to sleep in your car?
It can be illegal to sleep in your car depending on the circumstances. Here is everything you need to know about sleeping in your vehicle overnight
Free Car Insurance Comparison
Compare Quotes From Top Companies and Save
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Ty Stewart
Licensed Insurance Agent
Ty Stewart is the founder and CEO of SimpleLifeInsure.com. He started researching and studying about insurance when he got his first policy for his own family. He has been featured as an insurance expert speaker at agent conventions and in top publications. As an independent licensed insurance agent, he has helped clients nationwide to secure affordable coverage while making the process simpl...
Licensed Insurance Agent
UPDATED: Sep 13, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.
UPDATED: Sep 13, 2024
It’s all about you. We want to help you make the right coverage choices.
Advertiser Disclosure: We strive to help you make confident auto insurance decisions. Comparison shopping should be easy. We are not affiliated with any one auto insurance provider and cannot guarantee quotes from any single provider. Our partnerships don’t influence our content. Our opinions are our own. To compare quotes from many different companies please enter your ZIP code on this page to use the free quote tool. The more quotes you compare, the more chances to save.
On This Page
Driving long distances or for long periods can be exhausting. While it’s almost always possible to find a hotel to stay in, hotel rooms can be expensive. In this scenario, sleeping in your car sounds like a tempting idea, but it may not be the best idea.
Is sleeping in your car illegal? Just as the minimum car insurance required in each state can vary, rules about sleeping in personal vehicles do too. For example, in certain states, sleeping in your car is illegal, and if you choose to do so, you could end up with a significant fine or worse. However, sleeping in your car in certain areas, like a Walmart parking lot, is legal.
- States have different laws when it comes to sleeping at rest areas and other locations in your vehicle
- You can sleep in your car without any legal issues if you park in a Walmart parking lot or camping area
- There are steps you should take to ensure you’re safe if you choose to sleep in your parked car
Is it illegal to sleep in your car?
If you’re curious about the legality of sleeping in your car, it largely depends on where you are. Regulations vary by state regarding whether you can park and sleep in your car and what fines might apply. To sleep in your car legally, you should check local rules to understand any potential fines for sleeping in your car
The table below shows overnight parking laws in each state.
Overnight Parking Rules by State
State State Parking Rules
Alabama -Parking overnight at rest stops is prohibited.
-Parking on highways is not allowed.
-Intoxicated drivers can be arrested for sleeping in their cars.
- Various cities have bans on sleeping in the car.
Alaska -Laws are city-specific.
Arizona -Overnight parking is allowed at rest stops.
-Drivers can be arrested for sleeping in their cars while intoxicated.
Arkansas -Overnight parking at rest stops is allowed.
California -Overnight parking at rest stops is prohibited.
-Overnight parking is only allowed in certain parking lots.
Colorado -Parking overnight at rest stops is prohibited.
-Overnight parking in certain lots is allowed.
-Intoxicated drivers can be arrested for sleeping in their cars.
-Parking on a highway is prohibited.
Connecticut -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Delaware -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Florida -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
-Intoxicated drivers can be arrested for sleeping in their cars.
Georgia -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Hawaii -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
-Sleeping in your vehicle is prohibited.
-Drivers cannot park overnight on private property without permission.
Idaho -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Illinois -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Indiana -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Iowa -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed for one night only.
Kansas -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed for one night only.
Kentucky -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Louisiana -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Maine -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Maryland -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Massachusetts -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Michigan -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Minnesota -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Missouri -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Montana -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Nebraska -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Nevada -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
New Hampshire -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
New Jersey -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed at some rest stops.
New Mexico -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
New York -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
North Carolina -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
North Dakota -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Ohio -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Oklahoma -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Oregon -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Pennsylvania -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Rhode Island -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
South Carolina -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
South Dakota -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Tennessee -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Texas -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Utah -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Vermont -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Virginia -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Washington -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
West Virginia -Parking overnight at a rest stop is allowed.
Wisconsin -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
Wyoming -Parking overnight at a rest stop is prohibited.
In Alabama, it is against the law to sleep in your car at a rest area, and individuals may even face arrest if they sleep in their vehicles after consuming too much alcohol. However, regulations about sleeping in cars can differ significantly from one city to another across various states. For more specific information about rest areas in Alabama, including those near you, or about obtaining an Alabama concealed carry permit online, it’s advisable to check local regulations and resources.
If you’re on a road trip or have driven for an extended period and are concerned about the legality of sleeping in your car, it varies by location. Fortunately, there are no federal laws making sleeping in your car illegal, so you can generally find a spot to rest in your vehicle without facing legal issues. However, be aware that while car camping is not illegal on a national level, it’s important to understand local regulations to avoid potential problems. Additionally, keep in mind that sleeping in your car can be dangerous if safety precautions aren’t taken.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Where is it legal to sleep in your vehicle?
Typically, sleeping in your car is permissible if you choose an appropriate location. For car camping, one of the most favorable options is parking in a Walmart lot. Surprisingly, Walmart often permits individuals to park their cars, trucks, vans, and RVs for rest without concerns about legal trouble. This makes Walmart parking lots a popular choice for those considering car camping. However, always be mindful of local laws about sleeping in your car to ensure compliance with any specific regulations.
Anyone traveling in their vehicles for long periods, such as on a road trip, will occasionally want a place to stay that allows showering and cooking food. If this is something you’ll want while traveling, you should research different camping options in the area.
Campgrounds often charge an entry fee, but it’s usually significantly less than the price of a hotel room. Typically, you’ll have access to facilities like a bathhouse and experience unique scenery. If you’re exploring the legality of sleeping in your car or searching for places to sleep in your car nearby, campgrounds can be a budget-friendly option. Additionally, you might discover intriguing locations associated with historical figures.
Is it safe to sleep in my car overnight?
In terms of safety, sleeping overnight in your vehicle is questionable. First and foremost, sleeping in a car could compromise your security, particularly if you live in a dangerous area or someone breaks into your vehicle.
Additionally, there are various situations where sleeping in a vehicle can be hazardous due to the conditions. For instance, if the sleeping car area is too cold, you risk your body temperature dropping too low. Conversely, if it’s excessively hot, you could face the danger of heat stroke. Understanding sleeping in car laws by state can help mitigate these risks and ensure safety while sleeping in a car.
You should always ventilate your vehicle if you plan to sleep in it. Keep windows cracked to get fresh air. Never leave your car running for heat if you’re in your car during a cold night.
Do I need auto insurance to sleep in my car?
Unless you’re parked and sleeping in your car on your own property, you need to have your car registration and insurance details with you when you stop to sleep elsewhere. This is important to comply with sleeping in car laws and to avoid a ticket for sleeping in your car.
Law enforcement officers may approach you, and police can check your auto insurance. Since you had to drive to the spot where you’re sleeping, you’ll need proper insurance to avoid getting a citation.
The amount of car insurance you need depends on where you live. The table below shows how much car insurance coverage you need in each state.
Liability Auto Insurance Coverage Requirements by State
State Requirement
Alabama 25/50/25
Alaska 50/100/25
Arizona 15/30/10
Arkansas 25/50/25
California 15/30/5
Colorado 25/50/15
Connecticut 25/50/20
Delaware 25/50/10
Florida 10/20/10
Georgia 25/50/25
Hawaii 20/40/10
Idaho 25/50/15
Illinois 25/50/20
Indiana 25/50/25
Iowa 20/40/15
Kansas 25/50/25
Kentucky 25/50/25
Louisiana 15/30/25
Maine 50/100/25
Maryland 30/60/15
Massachusetts 20/40/5
Michigan 20/40/10
Minnesota 30/60/10
Mississippi 25/50/25
Missouri 25/50/25
Montana 25/50/20
Nebraska 25/50/25
Nevada 25/50/20
New Hampshire 25/50/25
New Jersey 15/30/5
New Mexico 25/50/10
New York 25/50/10
North Carolina 30/60/25
North Dakota 25/50/25
Ohio 25/50/25
Oklahoma 25/50/25
Oregon 25/50/20
Pennsylvania 15/30/5
Rhode Island 25/50/25
South Carolina 25/50/25
South Dakota 25/50/25
Tennessee 25/50/15
Texas 30/60/25
Utah 25/65/15
Vermont 25/50/10
Virginia 25/50/20
Washington 25/50/10
Washington, D.C. 25/50/10
West Virginia 25/50/25
Wisconsin 25/50/10
Wyoming 25/50/20
As you can see, all states require liability auto insurance coverage, and others have additional requirements, like personal injury protection, medical payments, and uninsured motorist coverage.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Sleeping in Your Vehicle: The Bottom Line
According to federal laws, it’s not illegal to sleep in your car. However, you can get in trouble for sleeping in your vehicle in certain states, cities, or areas.
You can often park and sleep in a Walmart parking lot or other areas that permit camping, but be prepared to pay for a campsite. Alternatively, you might choose to sleep at rest stops in your car, where allowed, although this may also involve certain restrictions or fees.
Suppose law enforcement officers approach you because it’s illegal to sleep in a vehicle where you parked. In that case, they will likely ask you for your license, registration, and insurance information. Anyone who does not have the proper insurance on their vehicle can get into significant trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to sleep in your car?
It can be illegal to sleep in your car depending on the circumstances. Rules about sleeping in personal vehicles vary from state to state. While sleeping in your car is legal in certain areas, such as a Walmart parking lot, it may be prohibited in other public areas. It’s important to know the specific laws of your location to avoid fines or penalties.
Where is it legal to sleep in your vehicle?
If you’re looking for a place to sleep in your car, some options include Walmart parking lots, where overnight parking is allowed. Additionally, researching camping options in the area can provide you with campgrounds that allow overnight stays at a lower cost than a hotel room.
Is it safe to sleep in my car overnight?
Sleeping in your car overnight can pose safety risks. Depending on your location and circumstances, your security may be compromised, especially in dangerous areas or if there’s a risk of vehicle break-ins. Extreme temperatures can also be hazardous, leading to issues like hypothermia or heat stroke. It’s important to ventilate your vehicle, keep windows cracked for fresh air, and avoid leaving your car running for heat during cold nights.
Do I need auto insurance to sleep in my car?
If you plan to sleep in your car and park it somewhere other than your own property, it’s important to have proper car insurance. Law enforcement officers may approach you, and having your car registration and insurance information on hand can help you avoid citations or penalties. The specific amount of car insurance required depends on the state you’re in, as each state has its own minimum coverage requirements.
Is sleeping in your vehicle legal on a federal level?
According to federal laws, sleeping in your car is not illegal. However, the legality of sleeping in your vehicle can vary from state to state, city to city, or even specific areas within a city. It’s crucial to be aware of the laws and regulations of your location to ensure you don’t violate any rules. In case law enforcement officers approach you and sleeping in a vehicle is prohibited where you parked, they may request your license, registration, and insurance information, which should be in order to avoid legal consequences.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Arizona?
In Arizona, sleeping in your car is not specifically illegal. However, local ordinances or rules at certain locations, such as parking lots or public areas, may restrict overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles. It’s important to check local laws and regulations.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Arkansas?
In Arkansas, there are no state laws specifically prohibiting sleeping in your car. However, some cities or counties may have ordinances regarding overnight parking or camping in vehicles. Always check local regulations to avoid fines or issues.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in California?
California does not have a statewide law against sleeping in your car. However, many cities and counties have their own regulations that may prohibit sleeping in your vehicle, particularly in certain public areas or parking lots. It’s best to check local laws.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Florida?
In Florida, there is no state law specifically prohibiting sleeping in your car. Nevertheless, local municipalities may have ordinances that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles, especially in public or commercial areas. Check local regulations for specifics.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Hawaii?
Hawaii does not have a state law that bans sleeping in your car. However, many areas have local ordinances or rules that may limit or restrict overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles, particularly in urban or tourist areas. Local regulations should be reviewed.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Idaho?
Idaho does not have a statewide prohibition against sleeping in your car. Nonetheless, local jurisdictions may have their own restrictions or rules concerning overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles. Always verify local regulations to ensure compliance.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Illinois?
In Illinois, there are no state laws that specifically make sleeping in your car illegal. However, local municipalities might have regulations or ordinances that limit or ban sleeping in vehicles, especially in certain areas or parking lots. Check local rules for details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Iowa?
Iowa does not have a state law that prohibits sleeping in your car. Nonetheless, local ordinances or rules may regulate overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles, particularly in public or private parking areas. It is advisable to check local regulations.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Kansas?
In Kansas, there is no statewide law against sleeping in your car. However, local municipalities may have ordinances that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles, especially in certain locations or parking lots. Check local regulations for specifics.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Kentucky?
Kentucky does not have a state law specifically prohibiting sleeping in your car. Nevertheless, local laws and regulations may restrict overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles in specific areas. Review local ordinances to ensure compliance.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Maryland?
Maryland does not have a statewide ban on sleeping in your car. However, various local jurisdictions may have ordinances that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles, particularly in public areas or commercial parking lots. Check local laws for details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Massachusetts?
In Massachusetts, there is no state law explicitly forbidding sleeping in your car. However, local regulations may prohibit or restrict this practice, especially in public areas or parking lots. It is advisable to consult local laws for specifics.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Mississippi?
Mississippi does not have a state law banning sleeping in your car. However, local municipalities may have regulations or ordinances that restrict overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles. Check local rules for accurate information.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Nebraska?
Nebraska does not have a statewide law that prohibits sleeping in your car. Nonetheless, local ordinances may regulate or restrict sleeping in vehicles, particularly in certain locations or parking areas. Verify local regulations to avoid issues.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in New Hampshire?
In New Hampshire, there are no state laws specifically banning sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances may restrict or prohibit overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles, especially in public or commercial areas. Check local regulations.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in North Carolina?
North Carolina does not have a state law prohibiting sleeping in your car. Nevertheless, local municipalities may have their own regulations that restrict or ban sleeping in vehicles, particularly in specific areas or parking lots. Review local ordinances.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, there is no statewide prohibition on sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances or rules may regulate or restrict this practice in certain areas or parking lots. It is important to check local regulations.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in South Carolina?
South Carolina does not have a state law specifically forbidding sleeping in your car. Nevertheless, local jurisdictions may have ordinances that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles, particularly in public or commercial areas. Check local laws for details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not have a statewide law banning sleeping in your car. However, local regulations may restrict or prohibit this practice in certain areas or parking lots. Always check local ordinances to ensure compliance.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Texas?
In Texas, there is no statewide law that prohibits sleeping in your car. Local municipalities may have their own rules or ordinances that restrict or ban sleeping in vehicles, particularly in specific areas. Check local regulations for details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Utah?
Utah does not have a state law that makes sleeping in your car illegal. Nonetheless, local jurisdictions may have ordinances or rules regulating overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles. Verify local regulations to avoid fines or issues.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Virginia?
Virginia does not have a statewide ban on sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances may restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles, especially in certain public areas or parking lots. Check local regulations for specific information.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Washington?
In Washington, there is no state law specifically prohibiting sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances or rules may regulate or restrict overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles in certain areas. Review local regulations.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in West Virginia?
West Virginia does not have a state law that explicitly bans sleeping in your car. Nonetheless, local ordinances may have restrictions or prohibitions regarding sleeping in vehicles, particularly in specific areas or parking lots. Check local laws for details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Alabama?
In Alabama, there is no state law specifically prohibiting sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances may restrict or prohibit this practice, especially in certain public or commercial areas. Verify local regulations for specifics.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Louisiana?
Louisiana does not have a statewide ban on sleeping in your car. Local regulations may vary, and some areas may have rules that restrict or prohibit sleeping in vehicles. It is advisable to check local ordinances for specific details.
Is it illegal to sleep in your car in Missouri?
Missouri does not have a state law that forbids sleeping in your car. However, local ordinances may impose restrictions or prohibitions on sleeping in vehicles, particularly in public or commercial areas. Check local regulations for specifics.
Can I sleep in my car in Georgia?
In Georgia, sleeping in your car is not specifically illegal at the state level. However, local ordinances or rules may regulate or restrict overnight parking and sleeping in vehicles. Always check local regulations for any restrictions.
Can I sleep in my car in Ohio?
Ohio does not have a statewide law banning sleeping in your car. However, local municipalities may have ordinances that regulate or prohibit this practice, particularly in certain areas or parking lots. Check local regulations for details.
Can I sleep in my car in Texas?
In Texas, there is no statewide prohibition against sleeping in your car. Local regulations may vary, and some areas might have rules that restrict or ban sleeping in vehicles. Review local ordinances for specific information.
Can I sleep in my car overnight?
In many places, you can sleep in your car overnight, but regulations may vary based on local laws and specific locations. Some areas may have restrictions or rules regarding overnight parking or sleeping in vehicles. Always check local regulations to avoid fines or legal issues.
Can I sleep in my car while it’s running?
Sleeping in your car while it’s running can be dangerous due to carbon monoxide risk and potential legal issues related to idling laws. It’s generally safer to sleep with the car off and ensure proper ventilation. Check local regulations for any restrictions on idling.
Free Auto Insurance Comparison
Enter your ZIP code below to view companies that have cheap auto insurance rates.
Secured with SHA-256 Encryption
Ty Stewart
Licensed Insurance Agent
Ty Stewart is the founder and CEO of SimpleLifeInsure.com. He started researching and studying about insurance when he got his first policy for his own family. He has been featured as an insurance expert speaker at agent conventions and in top publications. As an independent licensed insurance agent, he has helped clients nationwide to secure affordable coverage while making the process simpl...
Licensed Insurance Agent
Editorial Guidelines: We are a free online resource for anyone interested in learning more about auto insurance. Our goal is to be an objective, third-party resource for everything auto insurance related. We update our site regularly, and all content is reviewed by auto insurance experts.