Driving Safety

Minnesota Distracted Driving Laws

3 min read

Distracted driving is a leading cause of accidents in Minnesota, and state law takes it seriously. Minnesota's hands-free law, effective since August 1, 2019, mandates that drivers must use their cell phones in a hands-free mode while operating a motor vehicle. This law applies to all drivers, regardless of age or experience.

What Counts as Distracted Driving?

The Minnesota Department of Public Safety defines distracted driving as any activity that diverts attention from driving. This includes:

Texting or scrolling through a phone
Holding a phone for calls
Using GPS or apps without voice commands
Eating, grooming, or adjusting controls excessively

While only handheld phone use is explicitly prohibited, law enforcement can cite drivers for any behavior deemed distracting under the "careless or reckless driving" statutes.

Minnesota's Hands-Free Law Explained

Under Minnesota Statutes §169.475:

Drivers may not hold a phone while driving.
Voice commands or single-touch activation are allowed.
Using a device for video streaming, gaming, or social media is illegal—even in hands-free mode.

Exceptions include:

Calling emergency services (911)
Using GPS in hands-free mode
Emergency responders performing official duties

Drivers under age 18 are further restricted. They cannot use a cellphone at all while driving, not even in hands-free mode, except to call 911.

Penalties for Distracted Driving

Fines increase with repeated violations:

First offense: $100 plus court fees
Second and subsequent offenses: $300 plus court fees

These penalties can be compounded if the distraction leads to a crash or injury. In those cases, additional charges like reckless driving or vehicular homicide may apply.

Check out the Minnesota DUI Penalties and Consequences for how impaired or distracted driving can escalate into more severe legal consequences.

Law Enforcement and Reporting

Police officers can pull over and ticket drivers solely for holding a phone. The law is a primary offense, meaning no other violation needs to occur for a citation to be issued.

The Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety encourages drivers to report dangerous driving behaviors. If you're a passenger or witness, you can safely report a distracted driver by calling 911 with a detailed description.

Tips for Avoiding Distractions

Mount your phone on the dashboard or windshield
Use Bluetooth or voice command features
Set your GPS and playlist before driving
Pull over safely to make calls or send messages

Teen drivers are especially vulnerable. Learn more about teen driver laws in the Minnesota Teen Permit Rules.

For safer driving habits overall, see Defensive Driving Tips for Minnesota Roads.

Special Considerations in Work and School Zones

Fines for distracted driving may be higher in designated school or work zones. The state uses these enhanced penalties to protect vulnerable road users like children and construction workers.

Understand more about these areas by visiting:

Being attentive in these zones is not just about compliance—it's about saving lives.