Using a mobile phone while driving in Rhode Island (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Using a hand-held phone while driving is banned, including for composing, reading or sending texts; hands-free use is allowed. A first offence costs USD 100.
| 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 | $100.00 per offence [1] |
| 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 | Using a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device to compose, read or send text messages, or for any other purpose, is banned while driving. Hands-free use and mounted navigation are exceptions. [1] |
Notes
- No person may use a wireless handset to compose, read or send text messages, or for any other purpose, while driving. The section was amended effective 2 July 2025 (P.L. 2025, ch. 401 and 402). Exceptions include emergency services, calls to them, and use while parked or stopped out of traffic.
- Allowed in a hands-free manner or with a hands-free accessory, and for activating or deactivating a feature with a single swipe or tap.
- USD 150 for a second conviction and USD 250 for a third or later. Violations are heard in the Rhode Island traffic tribunal.
- The section does not state penalty points, and no points schedule was read.
Sources
- Rhode Island General Assembly: R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-30 Distracted driving prohibited while operating a motor vehicle (Internet Archive snapshot of 29 September 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Rhode Island 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island | Banned | Allowed | USD 100 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Connecticut | Banned | Hands-free allowed | USD 200 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Massachusetts | Banned | Hands-free allowed | USD 100 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| New York | Banned | Hands-free allowed | From USD 50 (range USD 50-200) | 5 points |
More rules in Rhode Island
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal for adults 21+ within limits · Growing at home: Up to 3 mature + 3 immature plants
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 25 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 50 mph day, 45 mph night
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 yrs 6 mths (provisional licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 16 (limited instruction permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Non-aerial items only · Minimum age to buy: 16
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Concealed: 3 in blade limit
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes (state law) · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $16.00 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes
- 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.