Delaware Cell Phone and Texting Laws

Handheld cell phone use and texting is prohibited for all Delaware drivers. All cell phone use (handheld and hands-free) is prohibited for Delaware bus drivers and for novice drivers.

Cell Phone Use

All Delaware drivers are prohibited from using handheld cell phones while driving.

Novice drivers in Delaware - drivers with a learner's permit or intermediate license holders – 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 Delaware drivers are prohibited from texting.

Bus Drivers

All Delaware bus drivers are prohibited from using cell phones  (handheld and hands-free) and from texting.

How is it Enforced?

Delaware’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.  

Read more about Delaware’s distracted driving laws.