Enforcement
Law enforcement officers will begin issuing citations for violations of the hands-free law beginning January 1, 2025.
Penalties
- 1st conviction in two years: up to a $150 fine
- 2nd conviction in two years: up to a $250 fine
- 3rd or more conviction in two years: up to a $500 fine
If a violation occurs in a school or work zone, fines up to $500
If a violation occurs and causes a serious injury crash, up to six months in jail and/or fines up to $1,000
If a violation occurs and causes a fatal crash, up to seven years in prison
Read the Law Online
The new hands free law can be found in Section 304.822 of the Missouri Revised Code.
The new hands free law can be found in Section 304.822 of the Missouri Revised Code.
Missouri’s Hands-Free Law
In Missouri, it is illegal to hold or support a cell phone or an electronic communication device in your hand, lap, or other parts of the body while driving on Missouri roads.
Drivers can make or receive calls via hands-free devices, such as:
- Using Speakerphone
- Connecting their phone to the vehicle
- Using aftermarket Bluetooth devices
In most cases, functions that cannot be activated, deactivated, or initiated with a single swipe or touch are in violation.
What's Off-Limits?
With very few exceptions, anything that involves typing, scrolling, holding, or supporting a device while driving is off-limits. In addition, the law prohibits watching movies/videos as well as recording, posting, sending, or broadcasting videos, even if the phone is securely mounted. Prohibited use includes, but is not limited to:
Manually Dialing a Phone Number
Texting
Updating or Browsing Social Media
FaceTime or Video Calls
Browsing the Internet
Watching Videos
Playing Games
Taking Videos or Photos
Staying Connected and Compliant
- Use in-vehicle mounts to support a cell phone while driving
- Use hands-free or voice-operated functions, such as voice-to-text or virtual assistants
- Navigate with GPS/map displays while the cell phone or device is mounted. Engage navigation features while parked and prior to driving.
- Play music or audio apps while the cell phone or device is mounted. Connect audio features while parked and prior to driving.
Exceptions Include:
- Drivers reporting an emergency or crime to law enforcement, fire department, hospital or similar emergency entity
- Drivers holding or using cell phones and other electronic devices while lawfully stopped or parked
- First responders (law enforcement, fire, EMS, emergency roadside service, public utility), using electronic devices as part of their official duties
- Commercial truck drivers using a mobile data terminal
- Transit, for-hire (taxis), or network company (rideshares) drivers provided that the device is mounted or affixed to the vehicle
- Drivers cannot be stopped solely for violation of the law.