Hands Off! South Carolina to Begin Issuing Citations for Mobile Device Use This Weekend

The grace period for South Carolina motorists is officially coming to an end. Starting Saturday, February 28, 2026, law enforcement officers across the Palmetto State will transition from issuing warnings to writing tickets for violations of the South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act.

The law, which originally took effect on September 1, 2025, included a mandatory 180-day educational period. During this time, state troopers and local agencies issued nearly 12,000 warnings to drivers caught with devices in their hands. As of this weekend, those friendly reminders will be replaced by financial penalties and points on driving records.

What Is Prohibited

The new act is significantly more restrictive than previous texting laws. Under the statute, it is now illegal to:

• Hold or support a mobile electronic device with any part of your body, including your lap or shoulder.

• Read, compose, or transmit any text-based communication, including emails, social media interactions, or website browsing.

• Watch or record videos, movies, or participate in video calls while operating a vehicle.

Crucially, the law applies even when a vehicle is stopped at a red light or in traffic. If the vehicle is on a public roadway and not lawfully parked, the hands-free requirements remain in effect.

Penalties and Fines

Beginning Saturday, drivers found in violation will face a tiered penalty system:

• First Offense: A 100 dollar fine.

• Second and Subsequent Offenses: Within a three-year period, the fine increases to 200 dollars and results in two points assessed against the drivers South Carolina operating record.

For Commercial Driver’s License holders, these violations are classified as serious offenses, which can lead to disqualification of driving privileges after multiple convictions.

How to Stay Compliant

Law enforcement officials are encouraging drivers to utilize technology to stay safe and ticket-free. Hands-free and voice-activated communication through Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, or Android Auto remains legal, provided the driver is not physically holding the device.

Exceptions to the law are narrow and include reporting an emergency, accident, or safety hazard to public safety officials. First responders are also exempt while performing official duties.

Master Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol emphasized that the goal of the crackdown is safety, not just enforcement. He noted that distracted driving contributes to a significant number of collisions and that the agency wants drivers to get acclimated to this new habit of putting the phone in a mount or using Bluetooth while keeping it out of their hands.