Question: Decades ago, when I got my driver’s license, it seems that there had been a height requirement in order to drive a vehicle safely. If the driver’s height was too short, then a booster was required to get the driver at a proper driving height for visibility. Today, on the roads and highways, I see many drivers who are positioned to look through the steering wheel to drive. Isn’t this a violation, sighting improper visibility for safety on the road?

Answer: According to Driver and Vehicle Services (DVS), there is no specific height that requires an elevated seat restriction. If a driver can see well enough to safely maneuver the vehicle for the road test, they are fine. If they use any cushion, booster seat, etc., that elevates their driving position, then they get the restriction.

If Law Enforcement observes an issue on the highway, whether it’s a traffic contact or crash, they can submit a “request for examination of driver” to the DVS-Driver Evaluation Unit. If there was an issue of the driver being able to see out of the vehicle, the officer would describe in detail the actions or conditions that brought this driver and issue to your attention and explain why they need to be re-examined.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205. (You can follow him on Twitter @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).