Index
California Hands-Free Driving Law
Summary
Drivers must use hands-free devices for cell phone calls and cannot hold a mobile device or text while driving.
Rights & Rules
- 01.Drivers are prohibited from holding a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a motor vehicle.
- 02.Using a cell phone for voice communication is only permitted with a hands-free device (e.g., Bluetooth headset, vehicle's built-in system).
- 03.Sending or reading text messages, emails, or any electronic message while driving is illegal.
Penalties
- 01.First offense: $20 base fine (totaling approximately $160-$200 including court fees and assessments).
- 02.Subsequent offenses: $50 base fine (totaling approximately $280-$350 including court fees and assessments).
- 03.No point added to the driving record for a first or second offense.
Verified Citations
California Vehicle Code (CVC) 23123.5 - Wireless telephone and wireless communication device; prohibitions
Source"A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device."
California Vehicle Code (CVC) 23123 - Hands-free wireless telephone calls
Source"A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while operating a handheld wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device unless the device is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving."