The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued an order on Friday requiring masks on interstate transportation and at transit hubs, including airplanes, mass transit, taxis and trains, starting February 1 at 11:59 p.m. EST.

The mask mandate also covers ride-share vehicles and subways and makes not wearing a mask as instructed a violation of federal law, said the CDC.

The order does not apply to private cars or commercial trucks being driven by a sole operator.

On January 21, President Joe Biden ordered government agencies to "immediately take action" to require masks in airports and on commercial aircraft, trains and public maritime vessels, including ferries, intercity bus services and all public transportation.

(With input from agencies)