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 Wisconsin, texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers, as per state statutes. This ban is comprehensive and includes writing, sending, or reading electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle. Additionally, Wisconsin law prohibits any use of a handheld mobile phone while driving in a construction zone. For novice drivers, who are those with a learner's permit or an intermediate license, there is a ban on all cell phone use, whether handheld or hands-free. However, Wisconsin does not have a statewide ban on the use of handheld cell phones for all drivers outside of construction zones. It's important to note that some municipalities within the state may have their own ordinances that further restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. Drivers in Wisconsin should be aware of and comply with both state laws and any local ordinances that apply to the use of mobile devices while driving.