South Carolina's new hands-free driving law took effect September 1, 2025, marking a substantial expansion of the state's previous texting-only restrictions. The legislation prohibits drivers from using mobile electronic devices while operating a motor vehicle in nearly all circumstances, with limited exceptions for emergency situations. The law defines mobile devices broadly as cellular telephones, portable computers, GPS receivers, electronic games, or any substantially similar devices. Under the new regulations, drivers cannot hold or support these devices with any part of their body, though earpieces and wrist-worn devices used for voice-based communications remain exempt.
The prohibition extends to watching videos, playing games, viewing movies, participating in video calls, and composing, reading, or transmitting emails, texts, or website information. Drivers retain the ability to use voice-based communication that is automatically converted to text, provided they are not physically holding the device. The law also permits the use of services or equipment installed in vehicles by the original manufacturer, specifically excluding after-market devices from this allowance. Navigation systems, traffic information access, audio content listening, and phone call initiation or termination remain permissible when the device is not being held or supported.
Notably, the legislation provides a 180-day adjustment period during which law enforcement will issue warnings rather than citations. This grace period allows drivers to adapt to the new requirements before penalties take effect. The law does not apply when vehicles are legally stopped or parked, and specific exemptions exist for radios, emergency communication devices, citizens' band radios, and prescribed medical devices. Legal experts note that these changes may lead to increased traffic stops and enforcement actions.
As attorney Lauren Acquaviva observes, the expanded restrictions could result in a crackdown on distracted driving behaviors that were previously permissible under the older texting-only prohibition. The implementation of this comprehensive hands-free approach aligns South Carolina with growing national trends aimed at reducing distracted driving incidents and improving road safety outcomes. The law's broad definition of mobile devices and specific prohibitions represent a significant shift in how driving behaviors will be regulated and enforced across the state.
