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 South Dakota, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. This ban is a primary law, which means that an officer can pull over and cite a driver for texting while driving without needing any other reason for the traffic stop. However, South Dakota does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held cell phones while driving for all drivers. The state does restrict novice drivers from all cell phone use. Novice drivers are typically defined as those who hold learner's permits or are within their first year of driving after obtaining a provisional license. Additionally, school bus drivers in South Dakota are prohibited from using cell phones while driving when children are present. It's important to note that some cities or towns within the state 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.