Are you confident about what you can and can’t do with your cell phone while driving in Texas? Whether you’re cruising through Austin or heading across the state, knowing the latest laws isn’t just smart—it’s essential for your safety and to avoid hefty fines.
Texas has clear rules about texting, calling, and using your phone behind the wheel. But some details might surprise you, especially if you’re new to driving here or just haven’t kept up with recent changes. Keep reading to get the full scoop on Texas’s cell phone and driving laws so you can stay safe, legal, and focused every time you hit the road.
Statewide Cell Phone Rules
Texas has clear statewide rules about using cell phones while driving. These laws aim to reduce distracted driving accidents. Drivers must understand what is allowed and what is not to stay safe and avoid penalties.
Voice Calls
Making voice calls is allowed if you do not type or read messages. Talking on the phone by holding it is legal under Texas law. Drivers should keep their attention on the road while on calls.
Exceptions To Typing Restrictions
Typing on a phone is allowed only when the vehicle is completely stopped. Using a phone for GPS navigation is also permitted. Reporting a crime or calling emergency services while driving is allowed.
Stricter Restrictions For Bus Drivers
School bus drivers cannot use cell phones at all if children are on board. This rule helps protect young passengers from distracted driving dangers. Bus drivers must focus fully on driving when children are present.
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Texting Restrictions
Texting while driving is illegal across Texas to keep roads safer. Drivers must not send or read messages when the vehicle is moving. Exceptions exist for emergencies or GPS use when stopped.
Texas enforces a hands-free law to reduce distracted driving. Drivers cannot hold a phone while driving in many situations. This law aims to keep roads safer for everyone.
The hands-free rule means you must use a speakerphone, Bluetooth, or other hands-free devices. Talking on the phone is allowed only if your hands stay on the wheel or the device.
When Is Hands-free Use Required?
Using a phone without hands is required in school zones and active work zones. These areas have higher risks and demand full driver attention. Violating this rule can lead to fines and penalties.
Exceptions To The Law
Drivers may use phones by hand only when the vehicle is stopped. Calls to emergency services are allowed anytime. Also, using the phone for GPS navigation without holding it is legal.
Penalties For Breaking The Hands-free Law
Breaking this law may result in fines starting at $99 for first offenses. Repeat violations carry higher fines and possible court appearances. Law enforcement officers strictly enforce these rules.
Hands-free Law Details
Texas enforces special rules for cell phone use in school zones. These rules protect children and pedestrians. Drivers must be extra cautious while driving near schools.
Using a handheld cell phone in a school zone is illegal. This includes texting, calling, and browsing. The law applies during school hours and when children are present.
Handheld Device Ban In School Zones
Drivers cannot hold or use a phone while driving in a school zone. Hands-free devices are allowed if they do not distract the driver. The goal is to keep eyes on the road.
Strict Rules For School Bus Drivers
School bus drivers face a full ban on cell phone use when children are on board. Even hands-free use is prohibited. This rule ensures children’s safety during transport.
Penalties For Violating School Zone Phone Laws
Violating cell phone laws in school zones results in fines. Repeat offenses lead to higher penalties. Law enforcement actively monitors school zones for violations.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The New Phone Law In Texas While Driving?
Texas bans texting or emailing while driving statewide. New drivers cannot use phones for six months. Bus drivers can’t use phones with children onboard. Voice calls allowed if not typing or reading messages. Exceptions include stopped vehicles, GPS use, emergencies, or reporting illegal activity.
Can I Refuse To Show My Id In Texas?
In Texas, you must show your ID to law enforcement when legally required. Refusing can lead to arrest or fines.
Is It Illegal To Eat While Driving In Texas?
Eating while driving in Texas is not specifically illegal, but it can be considered distracted driving. Drivers must remain attentive to avoid accidents or citations.
Can I Use My Phone At A Red Light In Texas?
In Texas, using a phone for texting or emailing at a red light is illegal. Voice calls are allowed if not texting. Typing is permitted only when the vehicle is fully stopped for navigation, emergencies, or reporting illegal activity. School bus drivers cannot use phones with children aboard.
Conclusion
Texas takes cell phone use while driving seriously. Texting or emailing behind the wheel is illegal statewide. Voice calls are allowed only if you do not type or read messages. Certain drivers, like school bus drivers with children aboard, face stricter rules.
Using phones in active school zones is also prohibited. Staying aware of these laws helps keep roads safer. Drive focused, keep your phone down, and avoid distractions. Safe driving protects you and others on Texas roads.
Ismail Hossain is the founder of Law Advised. He is an Divorce, Separation, marriage lawyer. Follow him.
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