South Carolina’s lawmakers passed the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act in 2025, designed to reduce crashes caused by distractions behind the wheel.
Beginning September 1, 2025, drivers will no longer be allowed to hold or manually use most phones or electronic devices while their vehicle is in motion. This law replaces the prior texting-only restrictions and positions SC alongside 32 other states with similar bans. Officials have emphasized that the measure is more about saving lives than generating revenue.
Prohibited Activities Under the New Law
Under the law, drivers are prohibited from holding or supporting a mobile electronic device with any part of the body, even momentarily. This includes holding a phone in hand, resting it on a lap or shoulder, or propping it against one’s body. Drivers cannot read, compose, or send texts, emails, app messages, or browse websites while driving. They also cannot watch motion-based content including videos, movies, games, or video calls. Exceptions include use while lawfully parked or stopped, use for voice-activated or hands-free controls, and emergency communications.
Penalties for Violations
Initially, violations will be treated with warnings only. After the first 180 days (i.e. beginning March 1, 2026), enforcement ramps up. A first offense carries a $100 fine, and subsequent offenses within three years bring a $200 fine plus two (2) points on the driver’s license. For commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders operating commercial motor vehicles, violations are classified as serious offenses, potentially leading to disqualification under federal and state regulations.
Grace Period Before Enforcement
Law enforcement will issue warnings only from September 1, 2025, through February 28, 2026, to allow South Carolina drivers time to become familiar with the law. After that date, actual citations, including fines and points, will be enforced.
Enforcement and Public Education
Officers can only stop a driver for violating the law if they have a clear and unobstructed view of the violation. SC DPS has launched the Hands-Free SC education campaign to inform motorists of the new law, including signage on state highways, messages at interstate welcome centers, and reminders from law enforcement agencies. The goal is to ensure awareness before full enforcement begins.
Drivers should begin adjusting now: install and use hands-free or voice-activated systems, set GPS and playlist preferences before hitting the road, and avoid holding any device even briefly while driving. Families with teen drivers should discuss the changes and begin modeling compliant behavior. The six-month warning period gives a window to practice these behaviors. Once full enforcement begins, fines, points, and higher insurance costs may result for violations. Early compliance will make it easier and safer for everyone on the road.