Using a mobile phone while driving in South Carolina (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Holding or supporting a mobile device and reading, composing or sending text while driving are banned; hands-free calls and voice-to-text are allowed. A first offence costs USD 100, with 2 points only on a repeat offence. Police may stop a driver only on a clear and unobstructed view of unlawful device use.
| 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 | 0 points [1] |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Reading, composing or transmitting any text, including text messages, email, application interaction or website information, on a mobile electronic device is banned while driving. Voice-to-text is allowed if the device is not held or supported. [1] |
| Can police stop you for this alone?Using a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes, but only when the officer has reasonable suspicion based on a clear and unobstructed view of the driver unlawfully using a device. The officer may not search the vehicle or the device because of this offence. [1] |
Notes
- In its current form (2025 Act No. 40) in effect from 1 September 2025; officers issued warnings only for the first 180 days. An earpiece or wrist-worn device may be used for voice-based communication.
- Allowed if the operator does not type and the device is not held or supported with any part of the body. Voice-to-text, navigation, audio and starting or ending a call are covered.
- USD 200 for a second or subsequent offence within three years. No part of the fine may be suspended.
- Two points are assessed only for a second or subsequent offence within three years; the first-offence penalty lists no points.
Sources
- South Carolina Legislature: South Carolina Code of Laws, Title 56, Chapter 5: Uniform Act Regulating Traffic on Highways, § 56-5-3890 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
South Carolina 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Carolina | Banned | Allowed | USD 100 | None (2 on repeat) |
| Georgia | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| North Carolina | No (texting/email banned) | Calls not restricted | USD 100 plus court costs | No points |
More rules in South Carolina
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Criminal offence (misdemeanour) · Growing at home: Prohibited
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 15 (conditional licence, daylight only) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (beginner's permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Bicycle rules
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (no small bottle rockets) · Minimum age to buy: 16
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: No general rule; limits at schools · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: No state minimum wage · Current adult minimum wage (gross): Federal $7.25 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
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 21 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 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.