Minors (under 18 years of age)
VC §23124

Drivers 18 years of age or older
VC §23123

are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone, including a hands-free device, and/or a mobile service device (pagers, texting devices, laptops, etc).

are prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless a hands-free device is used.

Exceptions:

• emergency situations, for example: calls to law enforcement, health care provider, fire department, etc.
   

• while operating a vehicle on private property.

Exceptions:

• emergency situations, for example: calls to law enforcement, health care provider, fire department, etc.
   

• emergency service providers operating an authorized emergency vehicle during the course of employment.
   

• while operating a vehicle on private property.
   

• a person operating a commercial motor truck or truck tractor (excluding pickups), implements of husbandry, farm vehicle, school bus, transit vehicle, or tow truck, if using a two-way radio operated by a “push-to-talk” feature that does not require the device to be close to the ear.

The fines for both laws are:

• $20, first offense plus administrative fees.
• $50, second or subsequent offenses plus administrative fees.