Hands-Free Driving

On January 1, 2021, a statewide ban on handheld cellphone and other electronic devices goes into effect. 

This law prohibits drivers from using a cellphone or a stand-alone electronic device while driving unless it is being used in a hands-free mode. This includes, but is not limited to, cell phones, tablets, music and gaming devices. 

A “stand-alone electronic device” is a portable device other than a portable wireless communication device that stores audio or video data files to be retrieved on demand by a user. 

It will be against the law, while driving, to: 

1. Hold or support a device with your body.

   1. This includes, but is not limited to, in your hands and perched on your shoulder.

2. Read, write or send a message via any portable wireless communication device.

3. Scroll through social media, watch videos, record videos, or any other use of the device that causes a distraction and requires use of your body.

You will be allowed to: 

1. To engage and disengage a function on the device such as GPS route start and answering or ending a call.

2. Talk on the portable wireless communication device with an earpiece, headphone device, or device worn on the wrist to conduct a voice-based communication.

3. Use a device for navigation of the vehicle.

4. Use a device in an emergency situation to summon help or report a crime. 

A person who violates this law is subject to the following civil penalty:

1. First violation: $75 – $149 fine

2. Second or subsequent violation: $150 – $250 fine

There are exceptions to the law, including emergency responders, people in an emergency situation or alerting first responders to an emergency situation or crime. Additionally, the law does not apply to radios, citizen band radio, citizens band radio hybrid, commercial two-way radios, subscription-based emergency communication devices, prescribed medical devices, amateur or ham radio devices, or in-vehicle security, navigation or remote diagnostics systems.