Which statement best describes the open-container rule in Texas when the vehicle is on a public highway and has passengers?

• A. Legal when parked
• B. Legal if the driver is over 21
• C. Illegal in the passenger area regardless of vehicle status
• D. Legal on private property

Answer: (C)

The key idea is that Texas prohibits having an open container of alcohol in the passenger area of a motor vehicle that is on a public highway. The passenger area includes the seats and the space where passengers would normally sit, but not the glove box or trunk. The rule applies regardless of whether the vehicle is moving or parked, and it does not depend on the driver’s age. So, on a public highway with passengers, an open container in the part of the car where people sit is illegal, period. The other statements don’t fit because: being parked doesn’t make it legal, age doesn’t change the rule, and the restriction is tied to public highways rather than private property.