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 Washington State, it is illegal for drivers to use hand-held cell phones while driving. This includes all forms of text messaging and accessing information on phones. The law is a primary enforcement law, which means that an officer can pull a driver over for using a hand-held cell phone without any other traffic offense taking place. Additionally, Washington prohibits all cell phone use, including hands-free, for novice drivers, which includes drivers with instruction permits or intermediate licenses. Furthermore, school bus drivers in Washington are not allowed to use cell phones when they are driving with children on board, except in emergencies or when certain equipment is malfunctioning. These laws are designed to reduce distractions and increase safety on the roads.