The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act makes it illegal to hold or support a mobile electronic device with any part of the body while operating a motor vehicle. It went into effect on Sept. 1 and impacts all drivers. This significant change is a major step for road safety in the state, moving beyond the previous texting-and-driving ban.
What Does the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act Entail?
Signed by Gov. Henry McMaster in May, the new law is designed to reduce the number of wrecks caused by distracted driving. It makes it unlawful for drivers to:
- Hold or support mobile electronic devices with any part of the body. This means no more holding phones on a call, resting it on the lap to see the GPS or scrolling through social media while at a red light.
- Read, compose or transmit any text, email, app interaction or website information.
- Watch motion on a mobile electronic device, including videos, movies, games or video calls.
Mobile electronic devices include cell phones, portable computers, GPS receivers and electronic games. However, there are some important exceptions. Motorists are permitted to use devices for hands-free or voice-activated functions, such making calls with Bluetooth headsets or using mounted phones for navigation.
Essentially, drivers can utilize most of the primary functions of the devices as long they are not holding them.
The law also permits device use while lawfully parked or stopped or when reporting an emergency or wreck to a public safety official. It is similar to what other states have already enacted.
What Are the Penalties for the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act?
Law enforcement officers will be on the lookout for drivers with a “clear and unobstructed view” of a violation. During the first 180 days after the law goes into effect — from Sept. 1, 2025, to Feb. 28, 2026 — officers will only issue warnings to give drivers time to get accustomed to the change.
After this initial grace period, the penalties for violations will be as follows:
- First offense: $100 fine.
- Second and subsequent offenses (within a three-year period): A $200 fine and two points on the violator’s driving record.
Now is the perfect time to invest in a phone mount, set up hands-free systems and make a conscious effort to put the phone down while driving.
A few seconds of distraction can lead to a lifetime of regret.
