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Texas Phone Use While Driving Laws (2026)

Conditional: Texas bans reading, writing, or sending texts or other electronic messages while driving (Tex. Transp. Code 545.4251).

ConditionalVerified Sep 9, 2026

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Texas bans reading, writing, or sending texts or other electronic messages while driving (Tex. Transp. Code 545.4251). State law lets adults hold a phone to talk (cities may ban handheld use citywide, 545.4252(e)), but not in school crossing zones or on school grounds in reduced-speed hours unless hands-free or stopped (545.425(b), 545.4252(b)). Drivers under 18 may not use any wireless device, even hands-free, except in an emergency (545.424(a),(f)); bus drivers carrying minors may not use one unless the bus is stopped (545.425(c)).

Official source: statutes.capitol.texas.gov →

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