What is the Hands Free Law in Massachusetts?

As of February 23, 2020, Massachusetts law prohibits operators of motor vehicles from using any electronic device, including mobile telephones, unless the device is used in hands-free mode.

What does this mean? Drivers 18 years of age and older can only use mobile devices in hands free mode. They are not permitted to hold or support the device. They cannot touch the phone except to activate the hands free mode. They are not allowed to touch the device for any reason except to activate the hands free mode. This means no texting, no emailing, no apps, no video, no internet.

If you are under 18 years of age, you are not allowed to use any electronic devices, in hands free mode or not. All phone use while driving is illegal in the state of Massachusetts if you are under the age of 18 years.

Penalty for violating the hands-free law:
* 1st offense – $100 fine.
* 2nd offense – $250 fine, plus mandatory completion of a distracted driving educational program.
* 3rd and subsequent offenses – $500 fine, plus insurance surcharge and mandatory completion of distracted driving educational program.