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LANSING — It is now illegal to manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle on Michigan roads. 

Under the law, a driver cannot hold or support a phone or other device with any part of their hands, arms, or shoulders.

Even if a cell phone or other device is mounted on your dashboard or connected to your vehicle’s built-in system, you cannot use your hands to operate it beyond a single touch.

As a result, you cannot manually do any of the following on a cell phone or other electronic device while driving:

• Make or answer a telephone or video call.
• Send or read a text or email message.
• Watch, record, or send a video.
• Access, read, or post to social media.
• Browse or use the Internet.
• Enter information into GPS or a navigation system.

The law makes holding or manually using a cell phone or other mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle a primary offense-which means an officer can stop and ticket drivers for this violation.

Penalties:

First violation – $100 fine and/or 16 hours of community service.

Second or subsequent violations – $250 fine and/or 24 hours of community service.

Three violations within a three-year period – Complete a driving-improvement course.

Fines doubled

If a traffic crash occurs and the at-fault driver was holding or manually using a mobile device while operating the vehicle, any civil fines will be doubled.

Q: Can I use my device while I am stopped at a light or in traffic?

A: You cannot hold or manually use a cell phone or other mobile electronic device at any time while operating a vehicle. Operation Includes being stopped at a light or in traffic but does not include being legally parked.

Q: My phone is mounted on my dashboard, so I’m hands-free. Can I send a text?

A: You cannot use your hands to operate a cell phone or other device beyond a single touch, even if it is mounted. Use voice-activated commands instead.

Q: Can I use Bluetooth or my vehicle’s built-in system?

A: You can use hands-free technology such as Bluetooth or integrated systems within the vehicle as long as you do not manually use the system. Anything more than a single touch is against the law.

Q: What if I see a crash or have an emergency?

A: You can use a cell phone to call or text 911 to report an emergency or seek help.

Q: When does this law take effect?

A: Beginning June 30, 2023, police will start Issuing citations for violating this law.