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 Missouri, texting while driving is prohibited for drivers under the age of 21. This is in line with the broader trend across the United States where most states have enacted laws against texting while driving. However, Missouri does not have a statewide ban on hand-held phone use for all drivers, which means that adult drivers are legally permitted to use their phones while driving, except for texting. It's important to note that some cities or towns within Missouri may have their own ordinances that further restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. Additionally, Missouri does not have a specific prohibition on cell phone use for novice drivers or school bus drivers, unlike many other states. Drivers in Missouri should be aware of and comply with any local ordinances that may apply in addition to state laws.