Index

Florida Wireless Communications While Driving Law

Summary

Prohibits manually typing or sending texts while driving, and holding a wireless device in a hand in school or work zones.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Drivers cannot manually type or send text messages while operating a motor vehicle.
  • 02.
    It is illegal to hold a wireless communication device in a hand or hands while driving in a designated school zone or a work zone with active workers present.
  • 03.
    This law is a primary offense, meaning law enforcement can stop a driver solely for this violation.

Penalties

  • 01.
    First offense (non-school/work zone): Non-moving violation, $30 fine (plus court costs).
  • 02.
    Second or subsequent offense within 5 years (non-school/work zone): Moving violation, $60 fine (plus court costs), 3 points on driving record.
  • 03.
    Violation in a school or work zone: Moving violation, $60 fine (plus court costs), 3 points on driving record.

Verified Citations

Florida Statutes - Section 316.305. Wireless communications while driving

Source
"(3)(a) A person may not operate a motor vehicle while manually typing or entering multiple letters, numbers, symbols, or other characters into a wireless communications device or while sending or reading data on such a device for the purpose of nonvoice interpersonal communication, including, but not limited to, texting, e-mailing, and instant messaging."

Florida Statutes - Section 316.305. Wireless communications while driving (School/Work Zones)

Source
"(3)(c) A person may not operate a motor vehicle while holding a wireless communications device in a handheld manner in a designated school crossing, school zone, or work zone area."