When won’t I get a ticket for using my cellphone while driving in SC?
Beware South Carolina motorists, as a new cellphone while driving law could cost you hundreds. But there are legal ways to use your cellphone without getting a ticket.
On Feb. 28, law enforcement officers throughout the state will begin issuing citations to motorists caught using their cellphones while driving. The new “Hands-Free” law took effect Sept. 1, 2025, with a 180-day warning period before tickets could be issued, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.
Although the state’s previous texting-and-driving law prohibited drivers from using their cellphones to text while driving, the “Hands-Free” law provide tougher restrictions, according to the department.
Under the new law, drivers cannot hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body; use a mobile device to read, write or send texts, emails; or use any type of app or website; and watch motion on a mobile device, including videos, movies, games or voice call, according to the department.
Penalties for a first offense include a $100 fine while subsequent offenses will cost motorists $200 and two points on their driving record, the department said.
Those holding a commercial driver’s license should be extra mindful as two violations within a three-year period while operating a commercial motor vehicle could result a 60-day suspension of their CDL, according to the department.
There are, however, some exceptions to the new law, including when a driver is lawfully parked or stopped; using a device in a voice-activated or hands-free mode; using a cellphone’s audio for navigation, music or podcasts without holding it; reporting traffic accidents, hazardous conditions or medical emergencies; and law enforcement, firefighters and EMS while performing official duties, according to the department.
The law is aimed at preventing distracted driving, which occurs in three ways when a driver uses their cellphone, including visual (taking your eyes off the road), manual (taking your hands of the wheel) and cognitive (taking your mind off driving), according to the department.
