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 Massachusetts, the use of any electronic device, including mobile phones, is banned for all drivers unless the device is being used in hands-free mode. This means that drivers are not allowed to hold or support any electronic device. Texting while driving is strictly prohibited, as is reading texts or emails. The law applies to all drivers, regardless of age or driving experience. Additionally, Massachusetts prohibits all cell phone use, both handheld and hands-free, for drivers under the age of 18. School bus drivers are also banned from using cell phones while driving. These regulations are in place to reduce distractions and increase road safety. Violations of these laws can result in fines and other penalties.