Distracted Driving Laws in Nevada

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


In Nevada, it is illegal for drivers under the age of 18 to operate a motor vehicle while using a cell phone or other electronic device. Drivers over the age of 18 may use a hands-free device to make calls while operating a motor vehicle.

2. Does Nevada have a law prohibiting texting while driving?


Yes, Nevada does have a law prohibiting texting while driving. Nevada prohibits any activity that would “impede the safe operation of the vehicle” with the use of a wireless communication device, which includes texting. The law also prohibits drivers from holding any type of electronic device in their hands while driving.

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


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

4. What are the fines for distracted driving in Nevada?


The fines for distracted driving in Nevada depend on the type of offense. For the first offense, a driver can expect to pay between $50-$250. Subsequent offenses can result in fines up to $1,000. In addition to fines, points may be added to your driving record.

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


Yes, Nevada does allow hands-free talking on devices while driving.

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


Yes, Nevada has a law prohibiting the use of social media while driving. The law, known as Senate Bill 140, was passed in 2017 and prohibits any person from using a hand-held wireless communication device when driving to view, send, or compose electronic messages, including text messages, instant messages, and emails.

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


Yes. It is illegal to talk on a hand-held phone while driving in Nevada. The only exception is if you are using a hands-free device.

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


No, it is not illegal to make phone calls while stopped at a red light in Nevada. However, it is illegal to use a handheld device while operating a motor vehicle, so it is best to wait until you are completely stopped before making phone calls.

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


Yes, Nevada state law requires drivers to use a hands-free headset while driving. This applies to all drivers of any age, although certain exceptions are made for certain types of vehicles. Additionally, it is illegal to use a handheld device for any purpose while driving, including talking, texting, gaming, or web browsing.

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


Yes. Nevada law prohibits the use of a cell phone while driving with a learner’s permit.

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


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

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


Yes, Nevada has laws against distracted driving, including the use of handheld electronic devices while driving. Drivers are prohibited from using a hand-held telephone or any other electronic communication device to talk, text, email, or access the internet unless the vehicle is stopped. Drivers over the age of 18 are allowed to use hands-free devices while driving.

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


Yes, most school zones in Nevada prohibit the use of handheld cell phones while driving.

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


Yes, Nevada does have an administrative license suspension for distracted driving violations. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) will suspend a driver’s license for violating the state’s distracted driving law, which makes it illegal to talk, text, or use any other handheld device while driving.

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


Yes, it is illegal to drive without a hands-free device in Nevada. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles states that “all drivers are prohibited from using a handheld device while operating a motor vehicle in Nevada.”

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


No, Nevada does not have an underage cellphone law which prohibits those under 18 from talking on their phones or texting while driving. However, Nevada does have a general distracted driving law which prohibits any activity that distracts the driver and either impairs their ability to operate the vehicle safely or hinders their ability to pay full attention to the road.

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


Yes. It is illegal to eat or drink while driving in Nevada, with the exception of drinking non-alcoholic beverages in a closed container.

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


The penalties for distracted driving violations in Nevada vary depending on the circumstances of the offense. Violations for first-time offenders typically involve a fine of up to $50, five demerit points on their driver’s license, and possible attendance at a court-approved traffic education program. Subsequent offenses may involve larger fines, additional demerit points, a driver’s license suspension, and/or community service.

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


Yes, it is illegal to use a cell phone while driving in Nevada, so police officers can pull drivers over for using their cell phones.

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


Yes, in Nevada, persons under 18 years of age are prohibited from using cell phones while driving, unless the phone is being used to call for emergency assistance.