Texas takes distracted driving seriously, especially when it comes to teens behind the wheel. Since 2017, Texas law has made it illegal for anyone to text and drive. But for new drivers under 18, the rules are even stricter.
Texas introduced this law after a spate of incidents where crashes happened because people weren’t paying attention to the road. Teenagers in particular were at risk of their devices taking their attention away from the environment around them, leading to accidents.
Overview of Texas Cell Phone Driving Laws
In Texas, all drivers—regardless of age—are prohibited from texting while driving. However, additional restrictions apply to teen drivers with a provisional license (the “G” restriction) until they turn 18 and renew their license as adults.
- For Teen Drivers (under 18):
It is illegal to use a cell phone at all while driving—this includes making calls, texting, using social media, or even using hands-free (Bluetooth) devices. The only exception is in the event of an emergency, and even then, it’s highly recommended to pull over safely before using the phone. - For Adult Drivers (18+):
Adults are allowed to use their phones only with hands-free technology (such as Bluetooth). Handheld phone use—holding the phone to call, text, or browse—is always illegal.
Important Note:
Phone use (handheld or hands-free) is strictly prohibited for all drivers, regardless of age, when driving through school zones. This is a zero-tolerance rule in Texas.
Why So Strict for Teens?
These tough rules are part of a set of restrictions (the “G” restriction) that apply to all Texas drivers under 18 with a provisional license. Along with curfew hours and limits on passengers, these rules are designed to keep new drivers focused and safe until they gain more experience behind the wheel.
Exceptions to the Law
There are only a few exceptions to these strict phone laws:
- Emergencies: Drivers (including teens) can use their phones to call for help in an emergency. However, it’s still safest to pull over before doing so.
- Stopped or Parked: Drivers can use their phones if the vehicle is lawfully parked—not just stopped at a red light, but actually parked.
- Navigation: GPS devices may be allowed, but teens should double-check that their device qualifies as a legal navigation aid and not a general phone app. To be safe, set your route before driving.
Consequences of Breaking the Law
Penalties for violating Texas cell phone laws as a teen driver include:
- First Offense: $99 fine
- Subsequent Offenses: $200 fine
If a crash or property damage results from distracted driving, courts may impose additional penalties—including punitive damages to be paid to victims.
How to Stay Compliant as a Teen Driver
- No Phone Use While Driving: The safest choice is to keep your phone out of reach—glove box or switched off—while the car is in motion.
- No Hands-Free for Teens: Hands-free (Bluetooth/voice command) is not permitted for drivers under 18, even though adults can use this option.
- Absolutely No Phone Use in School Zones: This applies to everyone, no matter your age or license type.
- In Emergencies, Pull Over: If you truly need to use your phone, pull over and stop the vehicle safely first.
- Driver’s Education: Take a state-approved driver’s ed course, offered by the Champions Driving School team. These programs reinforce the importance of staying distraction-free and help you understand all Texas driving laws.
Final Tip:
Remember, these rules don’t just help you avoid a ticket—they’re designed to save lives. Staying focused on the road keeps you, your passengers, and everyone around you safer.