South Carolina’s new hands-free driving law ends its 180-day warning period on February 28, 2026, after which full enforcement with tickets begins statewide.
Enforcement Timeline
The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, signed by Gov. Henry McMaster on May 12, took effect September 1, 2025. Officers issued only warnings initially to educate drivers, aligning the state with nearly 30 others enforcing similar rules.
Key Prohibitions
Drivers cannot hold or support any mobile electronic device—like smartphones, tablets, or GPS units—with any body part while operating a vehicle. This bans texting, scrolling, video watching, or handheld calls, even at red lights.
Allowed Exceptions
Hands-free options remain legal, including earpieces, wrist devices for voice calls, or map navigation via CarPlay without touching the phone.​
Penalties
First offenses carry a $100 fine; second or subsequent violations within three years add a $200 fine and two points on the driving record, potentially raising insurance rates.
