Massachusetts’s Cell Phone-Use and Texting-While-Driving Laws

Massachusetts's distracted driving laws generally ban texting while driving for all motorists and prohibit talking on a cell phone in certain circumstances. This article discusses the specifics of what the law prohibits and the costs and other consequences of a violation.

Massachusetts's Distracted Driving (Texting and Cell Phones) Laws

Massachusetts has several distracted driving laws. The texting restrictions apply to everyone the same, but the restrictions on cell phones apply differently to different drivers.

Massachusetts's Texting and Distracted Driving Law That Applies to All Drivers

Massachusetts's distracted driving law prohibits all use of an electronic device unless in hands-free mode. The law also specifies that drivers are not allowed to compose, send, or read a text message or view images or videos on an electronic device while operating a vehicle. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, § 13B (2025).)

The distracted driving law contains several exceptions for emergencies and GPS units that are secured to the vehicle. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, § 13B (2025).)

Massachusetts's Cell Phone Law for Underage and Public Transportation Drivers

Motorists who are younger than 18 or operating a vehicle used for public transportation (including bus drivers) aren't allowed to talk on or use a cell phone for any purpose while driving. In other words, the restriction applies regardless of whether the driver is using hands-free mode. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, §§ 8M; 12A (2025).)

Massachusetts's cell phone ban for underage and public transportation drivers contains exceptions for emergencies. Additionally, public transportation drivers are permitted to use a cell phone as necessary to perform official duties. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, §§ 8M; 12A (2025).)

Massachusetts's Distracted Driving Ticket Penalties

The penalties for a distracted driving violation depend on the driver's history and the circumstances of the offense.

A texting-while-driving ticket will cost the motorist $100 for a first violation, $250 for a second violation, and $500 for a third violation. Second and subsequent offenders must also complete a safe driving course. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, § 13B (2025).)

Penalties for Underage Distracted Driving Violations in Massachusetts

For a first violation of the underage cell phone use law, there's a $100 fine and 60-day license suspension, and the motorist must complete a driver's education course. Second violations carry $250 in fines and a 180-day license suspension. For a third or subsequent violation, the driver is looking at a $500 fine and one-year license suspension. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, § 8M (2025).)

Penalties for Public Transportation Distracted Driving Violations in Massachusetts

Public transportation drivers who violate the cell phone law face a $500 fine. (Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 90, § 12A (2025).)