Distracted Driving Laws in Washington D.C.

1. What is the legal age to have a cell phone while driving in Washington D.C.?


It is illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to use a cell phone while driving in Washington D.C.

2. Does Washington D.C. have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Washington D.C. does have a law prohibiting texting while driving. The District of Columbia prohibits any driver from using a personal wireless communication device to write, send, or view an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle. The law applies to any motor vehicle that is in motion or in a part of the roadway set aside for the movement of motor vehicles.

3. Is it illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Washington D.C.?


Yes, it is illegal to use a handheld device while driving in Washington D.C.

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Washington D.C.?


In Washington D.C., the fines for distracted driving are as follows:

1st Offense – $100
2nd Offense – $150
3rd Offense – $200
4th and Subsequent Offenses – $300

5. Does Washington D.C. allow hands-free talking on devices while driving?


Yes, Washington D.C. allows hands-free talking on devices while driving.

6. Does Washington D.C. have a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving?


Yes, Washington D.C. has a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving, which was enacted in 2015.

7. Is it illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Washington D.C.?


Yes, it is illegal to talk on the phone while driving in Washington D.C. This includes using a handheld phone and any other type of wireless communication device.

8. Is it illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Washington D.C.?


Yes, it is illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Washington D.C. This is considered distracted driving and can result in fines and other penalties.

9. Are there any state laws in Washington D.C. requiring hands-free headsets for drivers?


No, there are currently no laws in Washington D.C. requiring hands-free headsets for drivers.

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


Yes. Washington D.C. has a law prohibiting the use of cell phones while driving with a learner’s permit. Drivers with learner’s permits under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any type of handheld electronic communication device while driving.

11. Is it legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Washington D.C.?


Yes, it is legal to use GPS navigation systems while driving in Washington D.C.

12. Does Washington D.C. have a law against any type of driver distraction?


Yes, Washington D.C. does have a law against driver distraction. It is a violation of D.C. law to use a handheld communications device, such as a cellphone, while driving. Additionally, it is also illegal to text while driving in Washington D.C.

13. Are there any restrictions on phone use in school zones in Washington D.C.?


Yes, there are restrictions on phone use in school zones in Washington D.C. Drivers are prohibited from using handheld cell phones while driving in school zones. Also, drivers are prohibited from using any device to text while driving in school zones.

14. Does Washington D.C. have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations?


Yes, Washington D.C. has an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations. According to the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles, “D.C. law prohibits any person from operating a motor vehicle while using a handheld wireless communications device or portable electronic device unless the device is used with an accessory that permits hands-free use. If an officer observes a driver operating a motor vehicle while using a handheld wireless communications device or portable electronic device in violation of this law, the officer may cite the driver and impose an administrative license suspension for up to 60 days.”

15. Is it illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Washington D.C.?


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Washington D.C.

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


Yes, Washington D.C. does have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving.

17. Are there any restrictions on eating and drinking while driving in Washington D.C.?


Yes, Washington D.C. has a law prohibiting eating and drinking while driving. This law includes drinking alcoholic beverages and eating snacks, meals, and other food items. The penalty for violating this law is a fine of up to $250.

18. What is the penalty for distracted driving violations in Washington D.C.?


Distracted driving violations in Washington D.C. can result in a fine of up to $300 and/or up to 90 days in jail. Additionally, the driver’s license may be suspended for up to 90 days for a third or subsequent offense.

19. Are police officers allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Washington D.C.?


Yes, police officers are allowed to pull over drivers for using their cell phones in Washington D.C.

20. Does Washington D.C. impose any restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car?


Yes, Washington D.C. does impose restrictions on children under 18 using their cell phones in the car. The District of Columbia has a law that prohibits any driver under the age of 18 from using a wireless telephone, personal digital assistant (PDA), computer, two-way messaging device, or any other similar communications device while operating a motor vehicle, unless the device is used with a hands-free accessory.