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 Pennsylvania (PA), texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. This ban includes sending, reading, or writing a text-based communication while the vehicle is in motion. Pennsylvania does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held cell phones for all drivers, but it does prohibit all drivers from using an Interactive Wireless Communication Device (IWCD) to send, read, or write a text-based communication while their vehicle is in motion. However, talking on a hand-held mobile phone while driving is not banned for all drivers statewide. For novice drivers, which typically includes drivers with a learner's permit or intermediate license, there may be specific restrictions on cell phone use while driving. Additionally, school bus drivers in Pennsylvania are prohibited from using cell phones while driving. It's important to note that some municipalities within the state may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving. Drivers in Pennsylvania should be aware of both state laws and local ordinances to ensure compliance.