31 States Where Touching Your Phone Gets You Fined

Heads up, drivers: touch law fines are more than just a buzzword. They’re real, and they’re steep. In 31 U.S. states, including major hubs like New York and California, simply touching your phone at a red light could land you with a $450 phone fine, even when your car isn’t moving.

These rules, often called "touch laws," are part of a broader crackdown on distracted driving. While it might seem harmless to check a quick text or change the playlist while stopped at a red light, in many states, that's enough to trigger a ticket.

Let’s take a look at where these laws apply, how they work, and what you should do to stay out of trouble (and protect your monthly budget).

Drivers Beware: Touch Laws in 31 States Could Hit You With a $450 Fine

The term “touch law” refers to state-level rules that prohibit drivers from physically handling their phones while driving, even when stopped in traffic or at a red light. In other words, if your car is on and you’re behind the wheel, the law still applies.

The logic behind it is that even a quick glance at your screen can be a dangerous distraction. Essentially, lawmakers are trying to eliminate gray areas and keep all eyes on the road, all the time.

“I was just checking the GPS real quick,” won’t get us out of it, either. In many states, even holding our devices in a visible spot without using them can lead to fines.

States With Phone Use Driving Laws You Should Know

Currently, 31 states have enacted hands-free driving laws that limit or completely ban holding a phone while operating a vehicle. Some well-known states with phone use driving laws include:

• New York: Even being stopped at a light doesn’t give you a free pass. Repeated offenses can lead to the maximum $450 phone fine in states and 5 points on your license.

• California: Drivers must use hands-free systems; handheld use is illegal while driving, period.

• Georgia: Enforced under the Hands-Free Georgia Act, which bans holding a phone at any time while behind the wheel.

• Illinois, Connecticut, and Oregon: Similar laws apply. If you’re caught holding a device, even when stopped, you’re facing a fine.

To no surprise, these laws also apply to commercial drivers.

Red Light Phone Use Tickets

A common misconception is that it’s okay to use your phone when the car isn't moving. After all, if you’re not rolling through a stop sign or drifting between lanes, how dangerous could it be?

But, under these hands-free driving laws by state, a red light doesn't equal a break from the rules. Law enforcement officers can and do issue red light phone use tickets for drivers who are seen holding their phones, even just for a moment.

In New York, for example, your first offense may result in a $50 fine. But, that number jumps quickly. If you get caught a few times within 18 months, you could be looking at that dreaded $450 phone fine. Plus, 5 points on your license can quickly add up to a suspension if you’re not being careful.

Distracted Driving Penalties in 2025

If you think the rules are strict now, just wait. Across the country, distracted driving penalties in 2025 are trending upward. Many states are increasing fines, tacking on license points, and even imposing potential suspensions for repeat offenders.

States are also investing in better enforcement, with some even using unmarked vehicles or traffic cameras to catch violators in the act. There’s a growing understanding that distracted driving, especially the kind that involves phone use, is a major contributor to crashes and fatalities.

How to Avoid Touch Law Fines

The simplest way to steer clear of touch law fines is to go hands-free. Use voice controls, Bluetooth, or dashboard mounts that let you keep your eyes forward and hands on the wheel. If you absolutely must use your phone, pull over safely and turn off the engine.

And, remember, it’s not just about the fine. Racking up points on your license can hike up your insurance rates and even lead to a suspension. All in all, a quick glance at your phone isn’t worth the hassle or the cost.

Stay Safe, Stay Hands-Free

As more states crack down on distracted driving, staying informed is your best defense. Whether you're cruising through New York or caught at a red light in Georgia, it’s important to know the hands-free driving laws by state and avoid those wallet-draining touch law fines.

The next time you're tempted to check that text while waiting at a light, think twice. Your phone can wait, but a red light phone use ticket will stick with you much longer.