COLUMBIA, S.C. — Starting September 1, 2025, South Carolina will officially join the majority of U.S. states in banning the use of handheld mobile devices while driving. The new Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act aims to curb the rising number of traffic crashes caused by distracted driving and will impact every driver on the road.
What Does the New Law Prohibit?
Under the new law, it will be illegal to hold or support a phone or mobile device with any part of your body while operating a vehicle. Specifically, drivers cannot:
- Hold or support a mobile phone while driving
- Read, send, or compose text messages or emails
- Watch videos or use video call features
- Play games or interact with apps that require touch
What’s Still Allowed?
While handheld use is banned, the law does allow for hands-free operations, including:
- Voice-activated calling and texting
- Using integrated systems like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Audio-only navigation and music apps
- Making emergency calls to 911
- Usage by emergency responders in the line of duty
Enforcement Timeline and Penalties
Although the law takes effect on September 1, there will be a 180-day grace period during which officers will issue warnings, not fines. Starting February 28, 2026, full enforcement begins.
Penalties include:
- First offense: $100 fine
- Second and subsequent offenses: $200 fine and two points on your driver’s license
Accumulating points on your license can lead to higher insurance premiums and long-term financial consequences.
Why the Law Matters
South Carolina became the 33rd state to implement a hands-free law. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, over 20,000 crashes each year are linked to distracted driving.
“This law is about saving lives,” said Robert Woods, Director of Public Safety. “Driving requires your full attention, and we’re giving people time to adjust before strict enforcement begins.”…