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 Michigan, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers under the state's distracted driving laws. Michigan law specifically bans reading, typing, or sending text messages and emails through a wireless two-way communication device while driving. The law applies to drivers operating a vehicle on a highway or street. Additionally, Michigan prohibits all cell phone use, including hands-free, for Level 1 and Level 2 license holders under the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, which typically includes novice and teen drivers. However, Michigan does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held cell phones for all drivers. Instead, drivers are allowed to use hand-held devices except for texting. It's important to note that some municipalities within Michigan may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving. Drivers in Michigan should be aware of and comply with both state laws and any local ordinances that apply to the areas where they are driving.