Why can’t the President of the United States drive?
Find out why the President of the United States cannot drive, including the security measures and restrictions that ensure their safety. Learn about historical exceptions and presidential driving moments.
Being the leader of a country comes with immense responsibility and requires adherence to strict security protocols. One of the most notable restrictions placed on the President of the United States is the inability to drive a vehicle. While this may seem unusual, it is a necessary precaution designed to ensure the safety of the nation's highest officeholder.
The President's lifestyle changes significantly due to the need for heightened security. Regardless of how much a president may enjoy cars or driving, they are strictly prohibited from driving their own vehicle. Instead, the President relies on the U.S. Secret Service to handle transportation. But why is this the case?
The reason behind the driving ban: Ensuring safety
This restriction is primarily a security measure to protect the President. It extends not only to the sitting president but also to high-ranking government officials, including vice presidents. All individuals in these positions have access to Secret Service drivers who are specially trained to handle extreme driving maneuvers in case of emergencies, threats, or accidents.
Earlier this week, Donald Trump bought a Tesla but said he would not be allowed to drive it. Photo: AFP
The ban on driving was put into effect after the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy in 1963. As a result, Lyndon B. Johnson, who succeeded Kennedy, became the last U.S. President allowed to drive on public roads freely. Since then, this restriction has been in place.
When can U.S. Presidents drive?
Though U.S. Presidents cannot drive on public roads, they are allowed to drive in certain controlled environments. For example, Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush drove four-wheel-drive vehicles on their private ranches during their presidencies. Similarly, President Barack Obama occasionally drove a vehicle around the White House grounds.
However, not everyone has had such privileges. Joe Biden, while Vice President under the Obama administration, had to seek special permission from the Secret Service to drive his car on certain occasions. This occurred during his appearance on the Jay Leno Show, where Biden showcased his Corvette C2 Stingray.
The Former Presidents Act and Lifetime Protection
Under the Former Presidents Act, which was enacted in 1958, former U.S. Presidents are entitled to several perks, including a pension, health insurance, and lifetime Secret Service protection. This lifetime protection also includes a designated driver, meaning they are never permitted to drive on public roads once they leave office. This policy has been rigorously enforced since the assassination of JFK, with the Secret Service taking extra measures to ensure the safety of past presidents.