South Carolina’s Hands-Free Driving Law Enforcement Begins as Warning Period Nears End

South Carolina’s Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which took effect September 1, 2025, is entering a new phase this week as law enforcement shifts from warnings to full enforcement with fines for violations.

For the past six months, officers across the state have been issuing warnings to educate drivers about the law’s requirements. That grace period officially ends February 28, 2026, meaning drivers who are caught holding or touching a mobile electronic device while driving can now receive citations and fines beginning this weekend.

Under the law:

• A first offense carries a $100 fine.
• Second and subsequent offenses (within three years) result in a $200 fine and two points on the driver’s record.

The updated law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a cellphone or other mobile electronic device with any part of their body while operating a vehicle on public roads — even at a stoplight or in slow traffic. Drivers may still use hands-free features such as voice commands, Bluetooth, dashboard mounts for navigation, or built-in systems like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so long as the device is not physically held.

Officials with the South Carolina Highway Patrol say distracted driving remains a serious safety issue, and the transition to fines reflects a continued effort to reduce crashes and save lives. During the warning period, law enforcement focused on helping motorists adjust to the new rules. Now, the emphasis shifts to compliance through enforcement.

Motorists are encouraged to adopt hands-free habits now to avoid penalties and help make roads safer for everyone across South Carolina.