Question: I am in the process of restoring a classic car. I have a question regarding windshield wipers. Do I have to install them on my ride? I am concerned they will take away from the aesthetics. Everything from how they look on the windshield to the motor under the hood that operates them. I thought I would check with you.

Answer: Yes, you must have working windshield wipers on your vehicle. Minnesota law says the windshield on every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a device for cleaning rain, snow or other moisture from the windshield. The device shall be so constructed as to be controlled or operated by the driver of the vehicle.

Speaking of windshield wipers, a reminder that anytime your visibility is reduced due to rain, snow, sleet, hail, smoke, fog or other conditions that your headlights and taillights must be on.

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 X @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).