Using a mobile phone while driving in Indiana (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: A driver may not hold a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle, with an exception for calling 911 in an emergency. Hands-free and voice-operated use is allowed. A violation is a Class C infraction with a fine; the amount and number of points were not found in a source read.
| 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 [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Banned for all drivers: you may not type, send or read a text or e-mail on a phone while driving a moving vehicle unless you use hands-free or voice-operated technology, or are calling 911 in an emergency. [3] |
Notes
- The sources are Indiana Department of Transportation explanatory documents; the Indiana Code text could not be retrieved. Smart watches may be used as a conventional watch, and drivers may use navigation apps hands-free.
- The documents say a violation may result in a Class C infraction and a fine, without an amount.
- The INDOT page says the Bureau of Motor Vehicles began adding points on 29 July 2021 but does not state how many.
Sources
- Indiana Department of Transportation: Indiana Hands-Free Driving Law Fact Sheet (HEA 1070, IC 9-21-8-59) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Indiana Department of Transportation: Indiana Hands-Free Driving Law Frequently Asked Questions (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles: Indiana Driver's Manual (consulted 10 October 2026) · all sources
Indiana 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Indiana | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Illinois | Banned | Allowed (hands-free or one-button) | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Kentucky | No (texting banned) | Calls not restricted | USD 25 | 3 points |
| Michigan | Banned | Hands-free allowed | USD 100 (or 16 hours community service) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Ohio | Banned (calls at the ear allowed) | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 2 points |
More rules in Indiana
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Criminal offence (Class B misdemeanour) · Growing at home: No (criminal offence)
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 mph (urban residential)
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceEarliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (enrolled in driver education)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes · Minimum age: Class 3: 15
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (sold by certified retailers)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: No general ban; school property barred · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $7.25 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes, all seats · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes, all seats
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.