Your Phone Behind The Wheel
Minn. Stat. 169.475 — hands free only, and $275 for a second violation
Not in the hand. While a motor vehicle is moving or part of traffic, the driver may not hold a wireless device in one or both hands, or use one to write, send, retrieve or read an electronic message, make or take a call, or access video, audio, images, games or apps stored on it.
Allowed without holding the device: calls and messages in a voice-activated or hands-free mode, navigation that does not need typing, and audio that does not need scrolling or typing. Also allowed: using it to get emergency help, when a life is in immediate danger, or in an emergency vehicle on duty. Hands-free mode does not cover video content, video calling, live-streaming, gaming or reading messages.
A second or later violation carries a fine of $275. A vehicle lawfully stopped, off the traveled way and not obstructing traffic is not in motion or part of traffic.
Sources for this section (1)
- Minn. Stat. 169.475 — Use of wireless communications device
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Minnesota attorney.