You Can’t Make This Up: 30 Laws Around the World That Defy Logic

Planet Earth is a melting pot of traditions, cultures, and yes—laws. While some laws are the backbone of any well-functioning society, others can leave us in disbelief. But don’t laugh off these peculiar regulations; ignorance of the law is no excuse, especially when you’re thousands of miles away from home!

From jaw-dropping to just plain bizarre, we’ve scoured the globe to bring you a collection of unusual laws that must be read to be believed. Trust us, you won’t want to be caught on the wrong side of these legal oddities while globetrotting. These 30 laws are so weird you’ll think we made them up.

You Must Honk When Passing a Car in New Jersey

Suppose you find yourself driving on a highway in New Jersey. In that case, you’d better remember to honk your horn before passing another vehicle. Yes, you read that right! The Garden State has a law that requires drivers to signal audibly when overtaking another car.

This applies whether you’re on the infamous Garden State Parkway or the New Jersey Turnpike. While this might seem like an unnecessary addition to the already noisy streets of Jersey, the law insists on it to ensure road safety.

It’s Illegal to Reincarnate Without Permission in China

In China, Tibetan Buddhist monks are confronted with a peculiar legal obstacle: they must obtain permission from the government to reincarnate. This law is part of a broader framework of religious control. It is primarily seen as a way for the Chinese government to assert its influence over Tibetan Buddhism.

While the enforcement logistics are puzzling, to say the least, the existence of such a law underscores the extent of control that the government seeks over spiritual matters, including the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth.

Registering as Married at a Hotel Makes It So in North Carolina

Walking into a hotel and registering as a married couple in North Carolina effectively makes you legally married! Under the state’s common law marriage rules, presenting yourself “outwardly” as husband and wife establishes a legal marriage.

So, the next time you’re checking into a hotel in North Carolina, be clear about your relationship status—unless you’re looking for an unplanned wedding ceremony.

Canadian Radio Stations Must Play Canadian Artists

What’s that sound? Oh, just another Canadian artist blessing the Canadian airwaves. By law, radio stations must play at least 35% of tunes by homegrown talent between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m., Monday to Friday.

This policy assures you’ll be serenaded by the likes of Nickelback, Alanis Morissette, Celine Dion, Michael Bublé, and yes, the Biebs himself. Patriotic much? It’s a harmonious way to keep Canadian culture alive and kickin’!