The grace period for South Carolina motorists is coming to an end. Starting February 28, law enforcement officers statewide will begin issuing fines to drivers caught using handheld mobile devices behind the wheel.
The transition to active enforcement follows a 180-day warning period intended to acclimate the public to the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act. While the law technically went into effect on September 1, 2025, officials used the initial months to educate the public rather than penalize them.
Strict Prohibitions and Penalties
Under the new legislation, drivers are strictly prohibited from holding or supporting a wireless device with any part of their body. The act specifically bans:
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Reading, writing, or sending text-based communications (emails and SMS).
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Watching or recording videos.
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Manually typing data into a device while the vehicle is in motion.
Financial penalties for ignoring the law start at $100 for a first offense. Those who commit a second violation within a three-year window will face a $200 fine and the addition of two points to their driving record.
High Stakes for Commercial Drivers
The law carries even heavier weight for professional drivers. Beyond standard fines, commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders risk their livelihoods. Under a combination of state and federal regulations, two disqualifying offenses within three years can result in a 60-day suspension of a CDL when the violations occur in a commercial motor vehicle.
Legal Exceptions
The statute does provide specific instances where device use is permitted. Drivers remain within the law if they are:
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Lawfully parked or stopped.
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Utilizing voice-activated or hands-free technology.
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Listening to audio content, such as music or navigation, provided they do not hold the device to operate it.
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Reporting a medical emergency, a crime, or a traffic accident.
With the warning window closing, authorities are urging South Carolinians to secure their devices or utilize dashboard mounts before the February 28 deadline to avoid fines and ensure road safety.
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