Distracted Driving Laws in North Carolina

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, it is illegal for anyone of any age to use a cell phone while driving.

2. Does North Carolina have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, North Carolina has a law prohibiting texting while driving. It is illegal for drivers of all ages to text while driving in North Carolina.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in North Carolina?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in North Carolina.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in North Carolina?


The fines for distracted driving in North Carolina depend on the offense. Talking on a cell phone while driving can result in a fine of up to $100 for the first offense, and up to $250 for subsequent offenses. Texting while driving is considered a more serious offense, and can result in a fine of up to $200 for the first offense, and up to $500 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, a driver can receive up to two points on their license for either offense.

5. Does North Carolina allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, North Carolina allows hands-free talking on devices while driving. As of December 1, 2019, a new law went into effect in North Carolina that prohibits holding a cell phone while driving. Drivers are allowed to use hands-free technology to make and receive phone calls, as well as use smartphones for navigation and other purposes.

6. Does North Carolina have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, North Carolina has a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The law prohibits the use of mobile phones and other hand-held electronic devices to access, read, or post to social media sites while driving.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in North Carolina?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving in North Carolina, except for hands-free devices.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in North Carolina?


No, it is not illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in North Carolina. However, you should be aware that distracted driving laws apply and if caught, you could be subject to a fine.

9. Are there any state laws in North Carolina requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


Yes, North Carolina does have a law requiring the use of hands-free headsets for drivers. The law states that all drivers must use a hands-free device, such as a Bluetooth headset, when operating a vehicle. The law applies to all drivers, regardless of age.

10. Does North Carolina have a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit?


Yes, North Carolina has a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. The state also has a law that bans all cell phone use by drivers under the age of 18.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in North Carolina?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in North Carolina.

12. Does North Carolina have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, North Carolina has a law against distracted driving, which includes any activity that could take a driver’s attention away from the road. This includes texting, eating, drinking, using a GPS, and any other activity that could result in distracted driving.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in North Carolina?


Yes. In North Carolina, it is illegal for any person to use a cell phone while driving in a school zone. The law specifically prohibits drivers from talking on a mobile phone, sending or reading text messages, and playing games on a mobile device while driving in a school zone.

14. Does North Carolina have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


Yes, North Carolina has an administrative license suspension for drivers who are caught using a cell phone or other electronic device while driving. The suspension is effective for the remainder of the driver’s license term.

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in North Carolina?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in North Carolina.

16. Does North Carolina have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving?


Yes, North Carolina has an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving. The law, known as the “Cellphone Law for Novice Drivers” went into effect in December 2009 and applies to drivers under the age of 18 who are operating a motor vehicle. Talking on a cell phone or texting while driving is a primary offense for novice drivers (under 18 years old).

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in North Carolina?


Yes. North Carolina has laws prohibiting eating and drinking while driving, as well as other activities that may distract drivers from the task of driving. Drivers are prohibited from consuming food or drink in any form while operating a motor vehicle, unless such food or drink is necessary for medical reasons. Doing so can result in a traffic citation.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in North Carolina?


In North Carolina, a distracted driving violation carries a fine of up to $100 and/or up to 60 days in jail.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in North Carolina?


Yes. In North Carolina it is illegal to use a handheld mobile device while driving, and you can be pulled over for violating this law.

20. Does North Carolina impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes, North Carolina has restrictions on cell phone use for drivers under 18. Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone while driving, except to make an emergency call.