Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Minnesota, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers, regardless of age or experience. This ban includes the sending, reading, or composing of electronic messages or accessing the internet while the vehicle is in motion or a part of traffic, which also covers being stopped in traffic or at a traffic light. Furthermore, Minnesota law prohibits all drivers from using a cell phone or wireless communications device in a handheld manner while driving. This includes holding the phone to make or receive calls. Novice drivers, specifically those with a learner's permit or an intermediate license, are not allowed to use a cell phone at all while driving, whether handheld or hands-free, except for emergency purposes. School bus drivers are also prohibited from using cell phones while driving if children are present on the bus. These regulations are in place to reduce distractions and enhance road safety. Violations of these laws can result in fines and potentially more severe consequences for repeated offenses or if the distraction leads to an accident.