Teen & Novice Distracted Driving Laws by State
Most states ban all phone use (even hands-free) for drivers under 18. Here is the picture for teen drivers.
Most states ban all phone use (even hands-free) for drivers under 18. Here is the picture for teen drivers.
Nearly every state restricts phone use for teen and novice drivers more strictly than adults — commonly a full ban on handheld and hands-free use for anyone under 18 (or 19/21 in a few states). The idea is to remove the single biggest distraction for new drivers.
These graduated rules apply even in states that otherwise allow handheld talking for adults. See the state chart for the exact teen limit in your state.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 16-year-old use a phone at all while driving?
In most states, no — drivers under 18 are banned from all phone use, including hands-free, while driving.
Why are teen phone rules stricter?
New drivers are at much higher crash risk, and any phone use is treated as a serious distraction.
Does hands-free count for teens?
No — the teen ban usually covers hands-free too, unlike the adult rule in many states.