Can you use your phone while driving in Arizona?

Question

Accepted Answer

No — Arizona law prohibits using a phone in your hand while driving, with limited hands-free exceptions.

What's prohibited. Unless the vehicle is parked or stopped pursuant to certain traffic-control provisions, a person may not operate a motor vehicle on a street or highway while physically holding or supporting with any part of the body a portable wireless communication device or a stand-alone electronic device . It is also unlawful to write, send or read any text-based communication — including a text message, instant message, email or internet data — on such a device while driving .

Hands-free exceptions. A driver may use a portable wireless communication device with an earpiece, headphone device or device worn on a wrist to conduct a voice-based communication . Voice-based communications may also be used to direct the writing, sending, reading or other communicating of text-based communications . Devices may be used in a hands-free manner for navigation of the vehicle, use of a global positioning system, or obtaining motor vehicle information or information related to driving . The law also does not prohibit using a device — including one embedded in the vehicle — that allows communication without the use of either hand, except to activate or deactivate a function .

Other exceptions. The prohibition does not apply to emergency and law enforcement operators acting in an official capacity, certain FCC-licensed radio operators, certain commercial two-way radio users, or drivers using a device to report illegal activity or summon emergency help, among others .

Penalties. A violation carries a civil penalty of at least $75 but not more than $149 for a first violation ; $400 for a second or subsequent violation ; and an additional $150 if a violation results in an accident with a motorcycle . A peace officer who stops a vehicle for a suspected violation may not take possession of or inspect the device unless otherwise authorized by law , and a violation generally may not be considered for driver license suspension or revocation purposes .

Teen drivers. Stricter rules apply to class G (graduated) license holders: for the first six months, the licensee may not drive while using a wireless communication device for any reason, except during an emergency or when using an audible turn-by-turn navigation system without manually entering the destination or adjusting the device while driving . Violations carry a maximum civil penalty of $75 for a first violation and $100 for a second or subsequent violation, plus extension of the restriction and, for a third or subsequent violation, a thirty-day suspension . These restrictions end on the licensee's eighteenth birthday .

Local rules. Regulation of wireless device use while driving is a matter of statewide concern, and any conflicting county, city or town regulation is void .