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 Montana (MT), there is no statewide ban on hand-held phone use while driving for all drivers. However, Montana has enacted laws that address texting while driving. Specifically, Montana prohibits all drivers from texting while driving, making it illegal to write, send, or read a text message or email while operating a motor vehicle on the road. This law aims to reduce distractions and increase safety on the roadways. It's important to note that local ordinances in various Montana cities or towns may have additional restrictions on cell phone use while driving, so drivers should be aware of the laws in their specific location. As of the current knowledge cutoff, there are no specific Montana laws that prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers or school bus drivers, but again, local regulations may apply.