default.html.twig template not found for page: /resources/general-criminal-law/minnesotas-hands-free-driving-law-what-is-it-and-how-to-avoid-a-ticketDistracted driving remains one of the leading causes of traffic accidents nationwide. In response, Minnesota enacted its hands-free driving law to reduce injuries and fatalities caused by cell phone use behind the wheel. If you drive in Minnesota, understanding what the law allows, and what it prohibits, is essential to avoiding costly tickets and potential legal consequences.
Minnesota’s hands-free driving law is codified under Minnesota Statute §169.475. The law prohibits drivers from holding a cell phone or other electronic device while operating a motor vehicle.
This applies whether you are:
If you are behind the wheel and the vehicle is in operation, your phone may not be in your hand.
The law was enacted to address the growing number of crashes linked to distracted driving, particularly those involving texting, browsing, or handheld phone use.
Minnesota law allows limited phone use only when the device is not physically held. Acceptable hands-free use includes the following:
You may use voice-activated technology to:
Phones may be used if they are:
Using GPS is permitted only if:
Scrolling, typing, or holding the phone while navigating is not allowed.
Under Minnesota law, the following actions are prohibited while driving:
Even brief handheld use, such as picking up the phone at a stoplight,can result in a citation.
The bottom line: if the phone is in your hand while operating a motor vehicle, it is likely a violation.
Yes, but they are very limited.
Handheld phone use may be allowed in emergencies, including:
Outside of these specific scenarios, handheld phone use remains illegal under the Minnesota hands-free driving law.
Violating the MN hands-free law can result in escalating penalties:
Because the law is classified as a primary offense, police officers may stop and cite a driver solely for holding a phone, no other traffic violation is required.
Yes.
Minnesota’s hands-free law is a primary enforcement law, meaning officers do not need another reason to initiate a traffic stop. If an officer observes a driver holding a phone, a citation can be issued immediately.
This has significantly increased enforcement statewide, especially in urban and high-traffic areas.
Commercial drivers and CDL holders are subject to additional federal regulations. In many cases, penalties may be more severe and could impact a commercial license or employment status. If you drive professionally, compliance is especially important.
A hands-free driving ticket may seem minor, but it can still affect:
If you’ve been cited, speaking with a traffic defense attorney can help you understand:
Legal guidance is particularly important if the citation involves prior offenses or alleged distracted-driving injuries.
Minnesota’s hands-free driving law is designed to keep roads safer, but its enforcement is strict and often misunderstood. Knowing what the law allows, and where drivers commonly make mistakes, can help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.
If you have questions about a hands-free driving ticket or need legal representation, consulting an experienced Minnesota traffic attorney can help protect your rights.