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Missouri’s New Hands-Free Cell Phone Law

On behalf of Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer

February 10, 2025

Missouri’s New Hands-Free Cell Phone Law

On January 1, 2025, Missouri officially implemented a new hands-free cell phone law, significantly changing how drivers can use mobile devices while behind the wheel. This law, designed to reduce distracted driving accidents, affects drivers statewide and comes with strict penalties for violations.
If you drive in Missouri, understanding this new law isn’t optional—it’s necessary to avoid fines, points on your license, and potential legal trouble. Below, we break down everything you need to know, including why the law was enacted, what’s allowed and prohibited, and the penalties for breaking it.

Why Did Missouri Ban Texting and Driving?
Missouri has been one of the last states to fully prohibit handheld phone use while driving. Before this new law, only drivers under 21 were banned from texting behind the wheel. But the statistics on distracted driving accidents left lawmakers with little choice but to act.
According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, distracted driving was a contributing factor in over 100 deaths in 2023 alone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that using a handheld cell phone increases the risk of a crash 3.6 times compared to not using a phone. Given these alarming numbers, Missouri’s new law aims to curb these preventable accidents.
Missouri joins 27 other states that have already enacted similar hands-free laws, ensuring consistency in road safety regulations. The goal is simple: keep drivers’ hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Penalties for Texting and Driving in Missouri
Missouri’s hands-free law, formally known as RSMo Section 304.822, carries penalties that increase with each offense. If you’re caught using a handheld device while driving, here’s what you can expect:
First offense: A fine of up to $150
Second offense within 24 months: A fine of up to $250
Third and subsequent offenses: A fine of up to $500
If texting while driving leads to an accident: Harsher penalties, including potential criminal charges
Additionally, points will be added to your driving record, which can lead to increased insurance rates and potential license suspension for repeat offenders.

What You Can and Can’t Do Under the Law
Understanding what is permitted and what’s prohibited under Missouri’s new law can help you avoid costly mistakes. Here’s a clear breakdown:

What’s Prohibited
  • Holding your phone while driving: This includes texting, making calls, using social media, or any other action that requires holding your device.
  • Video streaming: Watching or recording videos while driving is strictly banned.
  • Typing messages or emails: Any form of manual data entry on a handheld device is illegal.
  • Scrolling through apps: Browsing social media, emails, or websites is not allowed.
  • Using a handheld GPS: Inputting an address while driving is prohibited.

What’s Allowed
  • Hands-free calls: You can use Bluetooth, speakerphone, or dashboard-integrated systems to make calls.
  • Voice-to-text: If your phone has a voice-to-text feature, you can use it without touching the screen.
  • One-touch activation: Answering or ending a call with a single tap or swipe is allowed.
  • Mounted phone use: Phones can be mounted on the dashboard as long as they don’t obstruct your view.
  • Emergency calls: If you need to call 911, law enforcement, or roadside assistance, you are permitted to use your phone.
Exceptions to Missouri’s Hands-Free Law
While this law applies to most drivers, there are a few exceptions:

  • Emergency Responders: Police officers, firefighters, and paramedics can use handheld devices when performing official duties.
  • Utility Workers: Employees responding to emergencies involving power, water, gas, or telecommunications are exempt.
  • Parked Vehicles: The law applies only when the vehicle is in motion. If you are legally parked, you may use your phone.
How This Law Affects You
If you’ve been accustomed to using your phone while driving, adapting to this new law may take time. However, the best way to avoid penalties is simple: invest in hands-free technology. Many newer vehicles already come equipped with Bluetooth integration, but if yours doesn’t, consider purchasing a hands-free device or phone mount.
Missouri’s enforcement of this law will be strict. Law enforcement officers can pull you over solely for using a handheld device—meaning you won’t need to be speeding or violating any other law to get stopped. If cited, expect fines and points on your license.

Have Legal Questions? Contact Harper, Evans, Hilbrenner & Netemeyer
Our attorneys have extensive experience handling personal injury cases and can guide you through your legal options.
Call us today for a consultation and get the legal support you need.

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