Can You Legally Sleep at Rest Stops in New York State?

The New York State Thruway Authority (NYSTA) has been very vocal about driver safety, including the dangers of drowsy driving. Naps are officially encouraged at rest stops along the thruway to keep drivers safe... but what about sleeping overnight?

A new generation of nomadic living seems to have been spawned from the combination of rising home costs and the glamorization of #vanlife on social media. Thruway rest stops as well as designated scenic overlooks seem like the perfect places for RV or van drivers to pass the night, but the law is very specific about who can - and can't - catch some Z's.

New York State Thruway rest areas are a great place to catch a nap... but what about a full night's sleep? (Google)

New York State Thruway Service Area Remodels

The New York State Thruway is currently undergoing one of the most ambitious projects in its storied history. 27 service areas from Ramapo, NY to Buffalo, NY are seeing complete remodels, including the addition of new restaurants (hello, Chick-fil-A) and redone parking areas. So who can sleep overnight?

Commercial drivers are legally allowed to park for up to ten hours in New York rest areas (Google)

Can Commercial Drivers Sleep Overnight in New York Rest Areas?

New York State law differentiates between two types of drivers in New York: commercial and non-commercial. To adhere to certain state and federal regulations, commercial drivers are permitted to park overnight for up to ten hours in New York State Thruway rest areas. The rules are different, however, for non-commercial drivers.

New York State law regarding non-commercial vehicles sleeping in rest areas is a little complicated (Google)

Can Non-Commercial Drivers Sleep in New York State Rest Areas?

While non-commercial drivers are encouraged to use service area parking lots to take naps, parking (and sleeping) for non-commercial drivers is limited to 3 hours... but here's where it gets a little complicated: the law states that this parking limit is only in effect during "the hours of darkness".

Get our free mobile app

A Wrinkle in New York State Law for Sleeping in Rest Areas

While this article should not be used as actual legal advice, the letter of the law seems to be focused on overnight parking, not extended parking in general. That might mean that an aspiring #vanlife influencer looking to get eight hours of sleep in a service area could legally do it as long as they sleep during the day. Check out some fascinating New York service area history below.

What New York State Thruway Rest Stops Looked Like in the 1950s

According to the Thruway Authority, the very first rest stops were erected in the mid-1950s offering travelers cafeteria-style food, coffee, and snacks. Today, these rest stops are going through their second major remodel which will bring new restaurants and amenities for Thruway travelers. According to these old images from the Thruway Authority, our local rest stops have come a long way in seventy years.

Gallery Credit: Boris