Handheld cell phone use and texting is prohibited for all Connecticut drivers. All cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) is prohibited for Connecticut bus drivers and for novice drivers.
Cell Phone Use
All Connecticut drivers are prohibited from using handheld cell phones while driving.
Novice drivers in Connecticut - drivers younger than 18 – are prohibited from all cell phone use (handheld and hands-free).
If handheld cell phones are prohibited, then what’s permissible? Here are the common options:
- Abstinence (don't use a cell phone while driving)
- Speaker Phone (you may have to talk loud)
- Use a bluetooth wireless device (those devices that people stick in their ear)
- Use a wired headset (economical and they come with many phones)
- Install a car kit (a more expensive proposition)
Texting
All Connecticut drivers are prohibited from texting.
Bus Drivers
All Connecticut bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones (handheld and hands-free) and from texting.
How is it Enforced?
Read more about Connecticut’s distracted driving laws.
As for texting, the fine for a first offense will be $100 and a second offense will cost $150 and subsequent offenses will cost the texting offender $200. If a teen driver is ticketed for using a cell phone or text messaging the following penalties will be applied -- First offense: 30 day license suspension and a $125 license restoration fee plus court fines. Second and all subsequent offenses: a 6 month suspension or until the teen driver reaches the age of 18, whichever is longer. $125 license restoration fee, plus court fines. Connecticut’s handheld cell phone and texting laws are considered “primary” laws, as is the prohibition on all cell phones for bus drivers. A primary law means that an officer can pull you over for the offense without having to witness some other violation. That is, the officer sees you texting and issues a citation.
Other Connecticut Information on this Website
Connecticut SR22 and Automobile Insurance
Connecticut Drunk Driving Laws, Penalties & Fines
Connecticut Teen Driving Laws and Insurance Requirements
