California has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the country, especially for drivers under the age of 18. From cell phone restrictions to hands-free requirements, these laws are designed to keep drivers focused on the road and reduce preventable crashes. In this guide, we’ll break down California’s distracted driving laws, explain how they apply to teen drivers, and share practical tips for staying safe every time you get behind the wheel.
California’s Distracted Driving Laws
California has some of the strictest distracted driving laws in the country.
Under California Vehicle Code §23123.5, drivers are prohibited from holding or using a handheld cellphone or other electronic wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle. If a phone is used, it must be mounted in the vehicle, and drivers may only make a single tap or swipe to activate or deactivate a function.
The rules are even stricter for teen drivers.
Drivers under the age of 18 are not permitted to use a cellphone or any wireless communication device while driving, even if it is hands-free. This includes:
- Making or receiving phone calls.
- Sending or reading text messages.
- Using FaceTime or video chat.
- Browsing social media.
- Streaming videos.
- Using handheld GPS apps.
The only exception is when contacting emergency services.
Violating California’s distracted driving laws can result in fines, points on your driving record, and increased insurance premiums.
California’s Cell Phone Laws
Drivers 18 years and older may use a phone only if it is in hands-free mode, such as through Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, or a dashboard-mounted device. Even then, drivers may only make a single swipe or tap to activate or deactivate a feature.
Holding your phone to text, browse social media, watch videos, or make a call while driving is illegal.
Penalties for Distracted Driving
Violating California’s distracted driving laws can result in more than just a fine.
Potential consequences include:
- Fines and court fees.
- A point on your driving record for repeat violations.
- Increased insurance premiums.
- Additional consequences for provisional license holders if violations accumulate.
Beyond the financial impact, distracted driving citations can affect a young driver’s driving record and lead to higher insurance costs for years.
Passenger Restrictions for California Teen Drivers
California’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program also helps reduce distractions for new drivers.
For the first 12 months after receiving a provisional driver’s license, drivers under 18 generally may not transport passengers under the age of 20 unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 25 years old. Certain family and employment-related exceptions apply.
These restrictions exist because studies have shown that teen drivers are more likely to become distracted when driving with friends.
Tips for Staying Focused Behind the Wheel
Safe driving starts before you leave your parking space.
To reduce distractions:
- Turn on your phone’s Do Not Disturb While Driving feature.
- Place your phone out of reach.
- Enter your destination into your GPS before driving.
- Adjust mirrors, seat position, and climate controls before leaving.
- Keep both hands on the steering wheel whenever possible.
- Ask passengers to avoid distracting conversations.
- Pull over safely if you need to use your phone or adjust something inside the vehicle.
Learn Safe Driving Habits With Advantage Driving School
Understanding California’s distracted driving laws is only part of becoming a safe driver. The most important lesson is learning to stay alert and focused every time you get behind the wheel.
At Advantage Driving School, our experienced instructors prepare teens for California’s roads by teaching defensive driving techniques, hazard awareness, and responsible decision-making. Our goal is to help every student become a confident driver who understands that arriving safely is always more important than responding to a text or checking a notification.
If you’re ready to begin your driving journey, contact Advantage Driving School today to learn more about our comprehensive driver education programs for teens and new drivers.