COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA – Starting September 1, South Carolina drivers will face stricter rules on cellphone use behind the wheel as the state’s new hands-free driving law takes effect. The legislation, passed earlier this summer, is expected to impact roughly 4 million licensed drivers statewide.
What the Law Prohibits
Under the “Hands-Free and Distracted Driving” law, motorists will be banned from:
- Holding or supporting a phone or electronic device with any part of their body.
- Reading, composing, or sending text messages, emails, or app interactions.
- Watching videos, movies, or motion-based content, including video calls and games.
Violations will carry a $100 fine for a first offense, followed by $200 fines and two points on a driver’s license for subsequent violations.
Warnings Before Enforcement
The Department of Public Safety announced that for the first 180 days, officers will issue warnings only, focusing on education rather than penalties.
Ticketing and point assessments will begin on February 28, 2026.
Robert Woods, director of the Department of Public Safety, said the approach is meant to help drivers adjust:…