Driving while using a phone or other electronic device can be dangerous and is restricted under Arizona law. Arizona’s hands-free law generally prohibits drivers from physically holding or supporting a phone or electronic device while driving. (A.R.S. § 28-914)
What a Driver Cannot Do ❌
- Hold a phone in their hand or support it with any part of the body while driving
- Text, type, or scroll through messages
- Watch or record videos
- Take photos or use a camera while driving
- Scroll through social media
- Use a phone or device in a way that requires prolonged physical interaction
What a Driver May Do ✅
- Use Bluetooth or speakerphone to make calls
- Use voice commands such as Siri or Google Assistant
- Use a mounted device to start or stop GPS with a single tap or swipe
- Use a mounted device to answer or end a call with a single tap or swipe
- Contact 911 or report an emergency
- Use certain hands-free features while stopped at a red light or stop sign
Possible Consequences
- Civil traffic fines that may increase with repeat violations
- Additional enforcement in school zones
- Higher insurance costs
- Points on a driving record in some situations
- More serious criminal charges if distracted driving contributes to a crash causing serious injury or death
Current civil fines generally range from about $75 to $250 depending on prior violations. Violations of Arizona’s hands-free law are generally civil traffic violations, not criminal offenses. (A.R.S. § 28-914)