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 Oklahoma, texting while driving is illegal for all drivers, regardless of age or experience. This ban is in line with the majority of states across the United States. However, Oklahoma does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving for all drivers. The law does specifically prohibit learner's permit holders and intermediate license holders, who are typically younger and less experienced drivers, from using hand-held devices while driving. School bus drivers in Oklahoma are also prohibited from using cell phones while driving. It's important to note that some cities or towns within Oklahoma may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving, so drivers should be aware of local laws as well.