MN Hands-Free Driving Law Takes Effect Aug 1, 2019

Effective August 1, 2019, handling your cell phone behind the wheel becomes illegal in Minnesota. While texting and driving has been against the law for some time now, you could still make and receive phone calls, holding the phone up to your ear. Doing so after the new law takes effect could result in a $50 ticket for first offenses and $275 thereafter.

What Are My Options?

The safest way to comply with the new law is to simply not use your phone when you drive. If you must, here are some legal alternatives:

Wireless Headset

You can pick up a Bluetooth headset online for as little as $35. This allows you to answer calls with the touch of a button.

Bluetooth Sync

Most newer cars have a Bluetooth sync feature which allows you to answer phone calls with the car’s radio and speakers.

Dash Mount

You can use voice activation features to control the device. One-touch answering is still legal.

Learn More

You can read further about the new law on the MN Dept of Public Safety website at https://dps.mn.gov/divisions/ots/hands-free/Pages/default.aspx.