Is it illegal to drive with a broken driver’s-side mirror?

Often yes—but it depends on where you are. In many places, driving with a broken or missing driver’s-side mirror is illegal because the law requires a clear rearward view and, in numerous jurisdictions, specifically mandates a functional exterior mirror on the driver’s side. In others, you may technically be legal if another mirror provides a clear view behind you (typically at least 200 feet/60 meters), but you can still be stopped and cited if the vehicle is deemed unsafe. Either way, a broken driver’s-side mirror is a safety hazard and should be repaired as soon as possible.

What the law generally requires

Most road-safety rules focus on ensuring drivers have an adequate rearward view. Many jurisdictions explicitly require at least two mirrors, including an exterior mirror on the driver’s side. Others require only that the vehicle has a mirror (interior or exterior) that allows the driver to see a specified distance behind—commonly 200 feet (about 60 meters). If rearward vision through the interior mirror is blocked (tinted/covered rear windows, cargo, passengers), additional side mirrors are typically mandatory, and the driver’s-side mirror becomes essential.

How rules differ by region

United States

Mirror rules are set by states, and requirements vary. A common standard is the ability to see 200 feet to the rear; some states also require a specific mirror on the driver’s side for passenger cars, while others do not unless the rear view is obstructed. Enforcement typically focuses on whether the mirror provides a usable view and whether the condition creates an unsafe vehicle.

The examples below illustrate how the law can differ among states.

• California: Requires at least two mirrors, including the left (driver’s-side) exterior mirror, providing a view at least 200 feet to the rear. A right-side mirror is required if the interior view is blocked.
• New York: Passenger vehicles manufactured after the late 1960s must have an exterior driver’s-side mirror; another mirror (interior or passenger-side) is also required to ensure adequate rearward view.
• Texas: Requires a mirror that lets the driver see at least 200 feet behind. The law does not expressly require it to be the driver’s-side mirror; however, if your rear window view is obstructed, a functioning side mirror is essential.
• Florida: Requires a mirror providing at least 200 feet of rear visibility. A driver’s-side mirror is not always explicitly required if the interior mirror provides an adequate view, but officers can still cite unsafe equipment.

Bottom line in the U.S.: In some states, a broken driver’s-side mirror is outright illegal; in others, it may be technically allowed only if another mirror provides a clear rear view. If your rear vision is obstructed or you lack two effective mirrors, expect a citation.

United Kingdom

For most cars first used since 1978, the law requires at least two mirrors, one of which must be on the driver’s side (offside). Driving with a broken or missing driver’s-side mirror is generally illegal and can lead to penalties and MOT inspection failures. Note that in the UK, the driver’s side is the right-hand side of the vehicle.

Canada

Rules vary by province, but the general approach is similar to the U.S.: a clear rearward view is mandatory, and many provinces specifically require a driver’s-side exterior mirror.

Here are representative provincial approaches.

• Ontario: Typically requires two rearview mirrors with a clear rearward view; the exterior driver’s-side mirror is expected to be present and functional.
• British Columbia: Requires an interior mirror and a driver’s-side exterior mirror; if the interior view is obstructed, a passenger-side mirror is also required.
• Alberta: Requires mirrors that provide a clear view to the rear; where interior visibility is compromised, side mirrors—including the driver’s side—are required.

In practice across Canada, a broken driver’s-side mirror will often lead to a repair order (“fix-it” ticket) or a fine, especially if it compromises rearward visibility.

Australia

Australian Design Rules and state regulations generally require a driver’s-side exterior mirror and at least one additional rearward-view mirror. In left-hand-drive countries the driver’s side is the left; in Australia, it is the right. Driving with a broken driver’s-side mirror is typically a defect and can attract a fine or a defect notice (e.g., in NSW and Victoria).

What police and inspectors look for

Officers and inspectors focus on whether the mirror provides a usable, stable view and whether the vehicle is safe. A mirror can be “broken” legally even if it’s still attached, depending on damage and visibility.

• Missing, shattered, or severely cracked glass that distorts or obscures the rear view.
• Loose, dangling, or taped-on mirrors that vibrate and don’t hold adjustment.
• Obstructed rear view (cargo, window tints, coverings) without adequate side mirrors.
• Integrated systems impaired by damage (blind-spot cameras, indicators, heating) where required for safe operation.

If any of these conditions apply, you can be cited even if another mirror technically exists, because the vehicle may be deemed unsafe.

Penalties and risks

Consequences range from fix-it tickets and modest fines to vehicle inspection failures. More importantly, reduced situational awareness increases the risk of collisions, and a known equipment defect can complicate liability after a crash. Some jurisdictions add points for defective equipment; others issue defect notices requiring prompt repair.

What to do if your driver’s-side mirror breaks

If your mirror is damaged, treat it as a safety-critical repair. If you must move the car before repair, take limited, cautious steps to remain as safe and compliant as possible—then fix it properly right away.

1. Assess legality and safety: Check whether your interior and passenger-side mirrors provide a clear 200-foot/60-meter rear view; if not, don’t drive.
2. Secure or remove hazards: Eliminate sharp edges and dangling parts; a loose housing can fall off and create danger or additional violations.
3. Use a temporary reflective insert only to reach a repair shop: A purpose-made stick-on mirror can restore minimal function, but it’s not a long-term fix.
4. Adjust remaining mirrors: Broaden passenger-side and interior mirror coverage; avoid high-speed roads and heavy traffic.
5. Schedule professional repair: Modern mirrors may contain heating elements, turn signals, sensors, and cameras that require correct calibration.

These steps help you mitigate immediate risk, but they are not a substitute for a proper, prompt repair that restores full legal compliance.

Insurance and repair costs

Replacement costs vary widely. A basic manual mirror glass can be inexpensive, but full assemblies with heating, power-fold, blind-spot monitoring, or camera systems can run hundreds to over a thousand dollars installed. Comprehensive or collision coverage may apply depending on how the damage occurred and your deductible; OEM parts typically cost more than aftermarket, and some advanced driver-assistance systems require calibration after replacement.

Summary

Whether it’s illegal to drive with a broken driver’s-side mirror depends on your jurisdiction. Many places—such as the UK and several U.S. states (e.g., California, New York)—require a functional driver’s-side exterior mirror, making it illegal to drive without one. Others allow driving if another mirror provides a clear rearward view, but you can still be cited if the vehicle is unsafe or the interior view is obstructed. For safety and compliance, repair a broken driver’s-side mirror immediately and avoid driving until your rearward visibility is fully restored.

How long can I drive with a broken side mirror?

While a cracked or damaged side mirror won’t render your vehicle unusable, you should stop driving until you replace it. A failing mirror can increase the chances of collisions and crashes.

Will you get pulled over for a cracked side mirror?

You May Get Pulled Over
Continuing to drive with a broken mirror may lead to more serious consequences. However, even a fine is a reason to fix your mirror quickly. It’s cheaper to visit a glass auto repair shop than it is to continue to pay fines.

Can you drive without your driver’s side mirror?

Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) requires that passenger cars have at least one exterior mirror on the driver’s side if the interior mirror doesn’t provide an adequate view to the rear. Therefore, if the center mirror is obstructed or non-functional, a driver’s side mirror is required by federal law.

Is it illegal to drive with a broken driver’s side mirror?

It is not illegal to drive with a single broken mirror, but you do need to be careful. The mirror needs to be secure to the vehicle so that it doesn’t fall off. You also want to make sure that the glass is stable enough so you won’t be leaving broken glass all over the place.