No, cursing while driving is not illegal in Minnesota. This claim circulates in lists of “bizarre driving laws,” but no state statute or municipal code prohibits swearing from a vehicle.​
Myth Origins
Urban legend compilations wrongly attribute such rules to Minnesota (or sometimes Maryland), often confusing them with outdated decency ordinances elsewhere. Actual Minnesota traffic laws target distracted driving like texting (Minn. Stat. § 169.475) and hands-free phone use since 2024, not verbal language.
Real Driving Laws
Minnesota bans handheld device use beyond voice activation, with fines up to $275 for repeat offenses, but speech remains protected under free expression. Public nuisance charges could theoretically apply if cursing endangers others, but that’s rare and not vehicle-specific.
Practical Advice
Focus on hands-free compliance to avoid tickets; profanity alone carries no penalty while driving.​
