Using a mobile phone while driving in Tennessee (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Holding a phone while driving is banned in Tennessee, and so is writing, sending or reading any text-based communication. Hands-free use is allowed, including sending a text by voice. A first offence costs 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 [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | $50.00 per offence [2] |
| 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 | Writing, sending or reading any text-based communication while driving is banned. Voice-based communication may be used to send a text message. [2] |
Notes
- The rule is stated on the official Tennessee Highway Safety Office pages; the statute text itself (T.C.A. § 55-8-199) was not read. Reading, writing or sending text and watching or recording video are also banned.
- The driver may use one button to start or end a voice communication and may send a text message by voice. Touching the device to activate or programme music is not allowed.
- A Class C misdemeanour and a moving violation. The fine is USD 100 for a third or later offence or if the violation results in a crash, and USD 200 in a work zone with workers present or a marked school zone with flashers operating.
- The official pages say a violation can result in points but give no number for an adult first offence.
Sources
- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security: Tennessee Highway Safety Office Launches Operation Hands Free (Internet Archive snapshot of 2 September 2025) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (Hands Free Tennessee campaign site): Hands Free TN (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Tennessee 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tennessee | Banned | Allowed | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Alabama | Banned (offence needs erratic driving) | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Arkansas | Using a mobile phone while driving a car: Texting only Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School zones: Banned in school zones Using a mobile phone while driving a car, Highway work zones: Banned in work zones | Allowed (not under 18) | USD 25 to 250 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Georgia | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Kentucky | No (texting banned) | Calls not restricted | USD 25 | 3 points |
| Missouri | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| North Carolina | No (texting/email banned) | Calls not restricted | USD 100 plus court costs | No points |
| Virginia | Banned | Allowed | USD 125 | 3 demerit points |
More rules in Tennessee
- Car speed limitsOutside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph (unless posted)
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (intermediate restricted licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (learner permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Three classes · Minimum age: Class 3: 16
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes where county/city allows sale · Minimum age to buy: 16 (16-17 need photo ID or an adult)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Knives no longer in the go-armed offence (2014) · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule; knives deleted from (a)(1) in 2014
- 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: Only passengers under 18
- 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.