Your Phone Behind the Wheel
R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-30 — no handheld use at all while driving, even stopped at a light, and nothing but hands free
No one may use a wireless handset or personal wireless communication device to compose, read or send texts, or for any other purpose, while driving on a public street or highway. Hands free use is allowed.
Stopped still counts. Driving includes sitting temporarily stationary in traffic, at a light or at a stop sign. It does not include being pulled over to the side, or off the road, where the vehicle can safely stay.
| Conviction | Fine |
|---|---|
| ConvictionFirst | Fine$100 |
| ConvictionSecond | Fine$150 |
| ConvictionThird or more | Fine$250 |
Talking on a hand held phone while the vehicle is moving is a separate $100 violation.
A driver under eighteen years of age may not use a wireless device at all except in an emergency. A third conviction can cost the license until the eighteenth birthday.
A particular ticket is a question for a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
Sources for this section (3)
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-30 — Distracted driving prohibited while operating a motor vehicle
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-31 — Mobile telephone usage by motor vehicle operators
- R.I. Gen. Laws § 31-22-11.9 — Use of personal wireless communications devices by minors while operating motor vehicles is prohibited
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of October 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Rhode Island attorney.