NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. — The South Carolina Hands‑Free and Distracted Driving Act takes effect on September 1, 2025. As part of the State’s public safety strategy, this measure prohibits drivers from holding or otherwise supporting mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle on public roads.
Understanding the Importance of Hands‑Free Driving:
What’s Prohibited:
- Holding or supporting a mobile device with any part of your body while driving
- Reading, composing, or sending texts, emails, app interactions, or web information
- Watching motion (such as videos, movies, games, or video calls)
What’s Allowed (Without Holding the Device):
I signed the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act to make our roads safer and ensure more South Carolinians make it home safely to their loved ones. Starting Sept. 1, drivers will receive warnings for holding a cell phone. Full enforcement begins Feb. 28. Read more:
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) July 31, 2025
- Voice‑activated or hands‑free communication
- Factory‑integrated systems like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Listening to audio (navigation voice prompts, music, or podcasts)
- Navigation or traffic‑info use that does not require device manipulation
- Reporting emergencies, hazards, or accidents
- Use by First Responders while performing official duties
Enforcement and Penalties:
Understanding Hands‑Free Driving:
- Warning Period: For the first 180 days after September 1, 2025, Law Enforcement will issue warnings only
- After Warning Period:
- 1st Offense: $100 Fine
- 2nd and Subsequent Offenses: $200 Fine plus two (2) Points on Driver’s Record
What You Can Do Now:
- Install hands‑free phone mounts
- Use Bluetooth or voice‑activated features
- Program navigation or playlists before you begin driving
- Educate family, friends, and visitors about the new law
By encouraging safer habits behind the wheel, this law is designed to save lives, prevent accidents, and create a safer travel environment for everyone using South Carolina roadways.
Engaging in hands-free distracted driving involves using mobile electronic gadgets, such as cell phones, without physically holding them while driving. Despite the perception of safety, studies indicate that hands-free devices result in cognitive distraction since drivers concentrate on conversations rather than the road.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
What Hands-Free Means:
- Hands-free driving allows drivers to use mobile devices (phones, tablets, etc.) without holding them, using features like Bluetooth, voice commands, or phone mounts.
- This includes initiating or ending calls, using navigation apps, and listening to audio-based content, as long as the device isn’t held or supported by the body.
- It generally does not include watching videos or engaging in video calls while driving.
