SC Hands-Free Law 2025 | What Drivers Need to Know

The New South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Law Takes Effect September 1, 2025

Beginning September 1, 2025, the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act (an amendment to S.C. Code Section 56-5-3890) will take effect. This law makes it illegal for drivers to hold or use a handheld mobile device while operating a motor vehicle on public roads in the state.

This legislation builds upon South Carolina’s previous texting-while-driving ban by expanding restrictions to cover almost all handheld device use — not just texting. The law applies to cell phones, tablets, laptops, and other portable electronic devices.

The goal of the law is simple: reduce distracted driving crashes and save lives. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, distracted or inattentive driving is a top contributing factor in over 20,000 traffic collisions every year in the state.

What’s Prohibited Under the Hands-Free Law?

The new law outlines clear rules about what drivers cannot do while driving a vehicle:

• Holding or supporting any mobile electronic device with any part of your body (for example, between your ear and shoulder).
• Typing, sending, or reading text messages or emails.
• Interacting with apps, websites, or social media.
• Watching videos, streaming movies, or participating in video calls.
• Playing games on a device.

These prohibitions apply when your vehicle is in motion on any public roadway in South Carolina (i.e., “not legally parked”).

Legal Exceptions to the Hands-Free Rule

While the law is strict, it does provide specific exceptions where handheld device use is permitted:

1. Hands-Free Technology – You may use Bluetooth, speakerphone, or voice-activated commands, as well as wrist-worn devices such as smartwatches, to make or receive calls.
2. Lawfully Parked Vehicles – If you are legally parked, you may hold and use your device. This does not include stopping at a red light or in traffic — the car must be parked off the roadway.
3. Emergency Situations – Using a device to contact emergency services, law enforcement, fire departments, or medical providers is allowed.
4. First Responders – Police, firefighters, and EMTs may use handheld devices while performing official duties.

Grace Period and Penalties for Violations

To help drivers adjust to the new law, the state has included a 180-day grace period beginning September 1, 2025. During this time, law enforcement officers will issue warnings only — no fines or points will be assessed.

After the grace period ends, penalties will be enforced:

• First Offense: $100 fine.
• Second Offense (within 3 years): $200 fine plus 2 points on your driver’s license.

Accumulating too many license points in South Carolina can result in license suspension and increased insurance premiums, making compliance with the law especially important.

Why South Carolina Is Cracking Down on Distracted Driving

Distracted driving has become a leading cause of traffic accidents nationwide, and South Carolina is no exception. Data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety shows that:

• Distracted or inattentive drivers cause more than 20,000 crashes each year.
• Many of these collisions result in serious injuries or fatalities.
• Texting and mobile device use significantly increase reaction time, reducing a driver’s ability to respond to road hazards.

By adopting a hands-free requirement, South Carolina joins dozens of other states that have taken similar steps to improve road safety.

Tips for Staying Compliant and Safe

To avoid violations and keep the roads safer, consider these tips:

1. Invest in a Hands-Free Mount – Use a dashboard or windshield phone mount so you can see navigation apps without holding your phone.
2. Use Voice Commands – Activate Siri, Google Assistant, or Alexa to handle calls, send messages, or get directions without touching your device.
3. Set Your Destination Before Driving – Enter your GPS location before putting your car in gear.
4. Enable “Do Not Disturb While Driving” Mode – Most smartphones have this feature to block notifications and prevent distractions.
5. Pull Over Safely – If you need to send a message, park in a safe and legal location before using your device.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. When does the South Carolina Hands-Free Law take effect?
   The law goes into effect September 1, 2025, with a 180-day warning period before fines are enforced.
2. Can I hold my phone while stopped at a red light?
   No. The law only allows handheld use if you are lawfully parked off the roadway.
3. What if I’m using my phone for GPS?
   You may use GPS as long as the device is mounted and operated hands-free.
4. Will using a smartwatch get me in trouble?
   No, smartwatches are allowed for voice-based communication, but avoid excessive interaction while driving.
5. How much is the fine for breaking the law?
   $100 for a first offense, $200 and two license points for a second offense within three years.

Final Thoughts

The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Law represents a major step forward in combating dangerous driving behaviors and making roads safer for everyone. While it may take some adjustment, using hands-free technology and limiting distractions can help save lives — including your own.

By learning the rules, following the law, and encouraging others to do the same, South Carolina drivers can help reduce the staggering number of crashes caused by distracted driving every year.

Charged with violating the new hands-free law? Contact O’neil Law Firm for a free consultation today.