Using a mobile phone while driving in Georgia (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Under the Hands Free Georgia Act drivers may not hold or support a phone with any part of the body, nor write, send or read text or watch video. A phone may be used with headphones, a wireless device, a holder or a mounted device. A first conviction carries one point and a fine of up to USD 50.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | 1 points [1] |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Banned for all drivers, even with hands-free equipment: you may not write, send or read texts, e-mails, social media or other internet data while driving. Voice-to-text and navigation are allowed; the ban does not apply while lawfully parked. [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- The manual lists holding or supporting a wireless device or stand-alone electronic device, writing, sending or reading text-based communication and watching, recording or broadcasting video. The Code text itself was not retrieved; the source is the Department of Driver Services manual.
- Maximum fines are USD 50 for a first conviction, USD 100 for a second and USD 150 for a third or later conviction within 24 months. A first-time offender who shows the court a hands-free device or proof of purchase is not guilty of the handheld offence.
Sources
- Georgia Department of Driver Services: Georgia Driver's Manual 2023-2024 (Texting & Cell Phones; Hands Free Georgia Law, HB 673) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety: Hands-Free Law (Hands-Free Georgia Act, O.C.G.A. § 40-6-241) (consulted 10 October 2026) · all sources
Georgia and neighbouring states
| State | Holding a phone while driving banned | Hands-free use | Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies) | Penalty points on the licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Alabama | Banned (offence needs erratic driving) | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Florida | Using a mobile phone while driving a car: Texting only Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: Banned in school and work zones | Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: Hands-free allowed | USD 30 (texting) | Using a mobile phone while driving a car: ⚠ Not yet verified Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: 3 points |
| North Carolina | No (texting/email banned) | Calls not restricted | USD 100 plus court costs | No points |
| South Carolina | Banned | Allowed | USD 100 | None (2 on repeat) |
| Tennessee | Banned | Allowed | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
More rules in Georgia
- Cannabis
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph (all other areas)
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (Class D provisional licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (Class CP learner's permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes · Minimum age: 15
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (licensed sellers, 18+) · Minimum age to buy: 18
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Blade of 12 in or less: not a 'knife' · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $5.15 per hour (state; federal $7.25)
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Minors 8 and older only
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: 0.02% under 21
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.