Indiana Hands-Free Driving Law: No Phone Holding

Indiana’s Hands-Free Indiana law prohibition on holding mobile devices while driving means you can’t legally hold your phone behind the wheel. This rule exists to cut down on distracted driving accidents, and it applies even when you’re stopped at a red light.

The law took effect in 2020 under Indiana Code 9-21-8-59, and breaking it can cost you up to $500. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and safe.

Violations carry fines up to $500.

What Indiana’s Hands-Free Law Actually Means for Drivers

This law is simple: if you’re driving, you can’t hold your phone. That means no texting, scrolling, or even just keeping your device in your hand. The goal is to reduce distractions and keep roads safer.

The rule covers all mobile electronic devices, not just phones. Tablets and other handheld gadgets fall under the same restrictions.

The Quick Rule: You Can’t Hold Your Phone While Driving

Holding your phone while driving is illegal in Indiana, period. This includes using it at stoplights or in slow traffic. The law doesn’t care if you’re “just checking a notification.”

The only exception is for emergency calls to 911 or other emergency services. Otherwise, put the phone down. This rule is a primary offense, so officers don’t need another reason to stop you.

What the Law Exactly Says (IC 9-21-8-59)

Indiana Code 9-21-8-59 explicitly prohibits holding or supporting a mobile device with any part of your body while driving. This includes using your shoulder, lap, or even your knee to keep the phone in place.

The law also clarifies that “driving” means operating a vehicle that’s in motion or temporarily stopped, like at a red light. For more details, you can review the full text on the Indiana General Assembly website.

What’s Allowed Under the Hands-Free Rule

You can still use your phone legally if you do it hands-free. Here’s what’s permitted:

• Using Bluetooth or a headset for calls
• Voice commands (Siri, Google Assistant, etc.)
• Mounted GPS navigation (as long as you don’t hold the device)
• Single-touch activation to start or end a call

What’s Still Illegal (Even If You Think It’s Hands-Free)

Holding your phone at a stoplight is still against the law. So is resting it on your lap while driving. The rule applies any time the vehicle is in operation, even if you’re not moving.

Using your phone for GPS is only legal if it’s mounted and you don’t hold it. Scrolling through apps or typing while driving remains prohibited.

Who the Law Applies To (And Who Gets Exceptions)

Every driver in Indiana must follow this law, including out-of-state visitors. There are no age exemptions, so teen drivers and adults face the same rules.

The only exception is for emergency calls to law enforcement, fire departments, or medical services. Commercial drivers must also comply, though they may have additional federal regulations to consider.

The Fine for Breaking the Law (And How It’s Enforced)

First-time offenders face fines up to $500. Repeat violations can lead to higher penalties. Police can pull you over solely for this offense, as it’s a primary violation.

Enforcement is active across the state, with officers trained to spot drivers holding phones.

Why Indiana Passed This Law (The Safety Data)

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents nationwide. Indiana’s law aims to reduce crashes linked to phone use behind the wheel.

According to the NHTSA, distracted driving claimed 3,308 lives in 2022 alone. Indiana’s move aligns with other states adopting similar hands-free measures to improve road safety.

How to Go Hands-Free Without Breaking the Rules

Use Bluetooth or a headset for calls. Voice commands let you keep both hands on the wheel. Mount your phone for GPS, but don’t touch it while driving.

If you need to use your phone, pull over safely first. Many newer cars have built-in systems that integrate with your device for seamless hands-free operation.

Common Mistakes That Still Get You Pulled Over

Using your phone at a stop sign counts as driving. So does holding it while waiting in traffic. Officers don’t distinguish between moving and stopped if the engine is running.

Another mistake is assuming hands-free means anything goes. Even with Bluetooth, you can’t manually dial numbers or browse the internet while driving.

Hands-Free vs. Other States: How Indiana Compares

Indiana’s law is stricter than some states that only ban texting. Others like California and New York have similar hands-free rules but may have different penalties.

Indiana’s approach is more comprehensive, covering all handheld device use while driving.

What Commercial Drivers Need to Know

Federal regulations add another layer for CDL holders. The FMCSA prohibits all handheld phone use, which is even stricter than Indiana’s law.

Commercial drivers can face disqualification for violations. Employers often have additional policies beyond state and federal rules.

Real-Life Scenarios: Can You Do This While Driving?

Can you use GPS on your phone?

Yes, but only if it’s mounted and you don’t hold it. Voice-guided navigation is the safest option.

Can you answer a call with one touch?

Yes, single-touch activation is allowed. Just don’t hold the phone to your ear.

Can you use your phone at a red light?

No, holding it at any point while driving is illegal. Pull over if you need to use your device.

Frequently Asked Questions