If you live or are planning a trip to Texas, it is worth your time to review the current Texas cell phone law and Texas texting and driving law before getting behind the wheel. Many of these laws have been updated within the past few years, and there are proposals for even stricter laws in the future. Cities, towns, and municipalities may have very strict laws that supersede state laws.
Distracted drivers are far more likely to be involved in an accident or a personal injury case in Texas. The laws across the Lone Star State reflect the serious consequences of allowing your attention to be taken away from the road in front of you. Understanding and following the TX cell phone law will help keep you safe and ticket-free.
Understanding The Texas Cell Phone Law
In general, it may be against the law to use a mobile device while operating a motor vehicle in Texas unless it is set up as a hands-free device. While there is no blanket ban on using your handheld cell phone, the safest bet for Texas drivers is to avoid using handheld devices while driving.
In Texas, unless you are reporting an emergency:
- You may not text behind the wheel of a moving vehicle, which covers both sending and receiving (reading) texts while driving.
- Handheld device and cell phone usage while driving in school zones is prohibited..
- Texas drivers with a learners permit may not use a cell phone for the first six months of driving, even if it is hands-free.
- All drivers under the age of 18 may not use any handheld devices while driving.
- School bus drivers may not use cell phones in any manner while driving when children are riding.
Exceptions to Current Talking and Texting While Driving Laws
The current driving laws in Texas do have several exceptions and other restrictions regarding using your phone while driving:
- If you are stopped in a parking lot or at a red light, it is not a violation of current laws to use your phone.
- You can still use your smartphone to listen to music or for GPS directions, although it is safer to mount it on the dash than hold it in your hand.
- Using your smartphone to call 911 for an emergency call is not a violation of distracted driving laws.
Brush Up on TX Laws About Cell Phones and Driving
One of the best ways to stay up to date on current traffic laws is by completing our Texas approved defensive driving course online. The material covered in our course reflects the current laws, so you get a complete overview on changing traffic laws and restrictions on using handheld devices while driving.
As one of the leading online course provider for state approved driving classes, a Texas Driving Course from Ticket School will not only improve your driving knowledge but save you money on car insurance or even help you get a traffic ticket dismissed. All of our courses are mobile-device-friendly and can be completed at your own pace. Contact us today with your questions or just enroll online to get started!