Using a mobile phone while driving in Ohio (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Holding or physically supporting a phone while driving is banned, except holding it directly near the ear for a call without manually entering characters. Hands-free use is allowed. The first-offence fine is up to USD 150 and 2 points.
| 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] |
| 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 | 2 points [2] |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Using, holding or physically supporting an electronic wireless communications device while driving is banned. The exceptions for a call held near the ear, navigation, single touch or swipe and vehicle-integrated systems apply only if the driver does not manually enter letters, numbers or symbols. [1] |
| Can police stop you for this alone?Using a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes, but an officer may stop a driver for this offence only after visually observing the driver using, holding or physically supporting the device. [1] |
Notes
- Using, holding or physically supporting a device is banned. Exceptions include holding it directly near the ear for a call without manually entering letters, numbers or symbols, and single-touch or single-swipe use when the device is not held. Text current as amended effective 30 June 2025.
- Allowed with the speakerphone, a voice-operated or hands-free feature, or an integrated vehicle system, provided the device is not held or supported with any part of the body.
- Maximum for a first offence; no minimum is stated. The fine is up to USD 250 for a second offence and up to USD 500 for a third within two years, and is doubled in a posted construction zone. A first offender may attend a distracted driving safety course instead of paying the fine.
- Two points for a first offence within two years, 3 for a second and 4 for a third or later. No points apply if the offender completes the safety course instead.
Sources
- Ohio Legislative Service Commission: Section 4511.204 | Driving while texting (Ohio Revised Code; Internet Archive snapshot of 7 January 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Ohio Legislative Service Commission: Section 4510.036 | Record of convictions; points (Ohio Revised Code; Internet Archive snapshot of 22 December 2025) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Ohio 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ohio | Banned (calls at the ear allowed) | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 2 points |
| Indiana | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ 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 |
| Pennsylvania | Banned (holding) | Hands-free; one-button only | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| West Virginia | Banned | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | None (3 on third) |
More rules in Ohio
- Cannabis
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 25 mph; 35 mph on some state routes · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (probationary licence; full at 18) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 yrs 6 mths (temporary permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes · Minimum age: Class 3: 16
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes, from licensed retailers · Minimum age to buy: 18
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Not a weapon unless used as one
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes (state law) · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $11.00 per hour (larger employers)
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Only children under 16
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 21 (sales to under 21 banned) · Minimum age to buy spirits: 21 (sales to under 21 banned)
- 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.