Missouri’s Hands-Free Law: A Guide (2025)
Contributor
Reviewed By Adam Ramirez, J.D.
Editor
Summary
- Missouri’s hands-free law went into effect on January 1, 2025
- It bans drivers from handling or typing on phones and other devices
- Violators face fines, and those who cause accidents may be jailed
Most states have some kind of law banning texting and other phone use behind the wheel. Until 2025, Missouri was one of the few that didn’t. Here’s what you need to know about the Missouri hands-free law.
Overview of the Missouri Hands-Free Law
Missouri’s new hands-free law is designed to reduce the risk of car accidents by limiting distractions. Drivers aren’t allowed to hold or support a phone (or similar device). They also may not read notifications or manually enter data.
What Changed From the Previous Law?
Previously, Missouri only banned drivers under 21 and drivers of commercial vehicles from texting behind the wheel.
Actions Prohibited While Driving
Most people know that the law prohibits texting, but it also bans activities like:
- Taking photos or videos
- Watching videos
- Playing games
- Using apps
- Reading notifications or emails
- Typing on a phone
- Facetiming or video chatting
- Browsing social media
If drivers want to talk on the phone, they must use a hands-free system and a dashboard mount.
Penalties for Violating the Law
Fines increase with repeat offenses:
- First Conviction in Two Years: Up to $150
- Second Conviction in Two Years: Up to $250
- Third Conviction in Two Years: Up to $500
Violations in school and work zones lead to a fine of up to $500. If a driver causes a crash while violating the law, they face up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000 or both. If the crash is fatal, they may spend up to seven years in prison.
Legal Impacts in Accident or Injury Cases
To win a car accident case, a lawyer must prove the elements of negligence. Drivers who violate the law have failed to use due care. This makes it much easier for the injured person’s lawyer to argue their case.
Who Is Exempt Under the Hands-Free Law?
Exemptions to the Missouri hands-free law include the following:
- Drivers reporting an emergency
- Legally stopped/parked drivers
- Truck drivers using mobile data terminals
- Taxi/rideshare drivers (as long as the phone is mounted)
- First responders
Notably, Missouri doesn’t allow drivers to be stopped solely for violating the hands-free law.
How to Stay Compliant While Driving
The best way to stay compliant is to use a dashboard mount and a Bluetooth connection, an in-car speaker system or voice control to interact with the device while driving.
Need Legal Help?
If you’ve been injured by someone in violation of the hands-free law, a Missouri personal injury lawyer may be able to help. Likewise, if you’ve been ticketed for a violation of the law, it may be worth hiring a traffic lawyer.
No matter what kind of lawyer you need, ConsumerShield is here to help. Fill out our contact form for a free case review!
Other missouri Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
-
No. The hands-free law bans reading text messages and other potentially dangerous visual distractions while driving.
-
Yes, as long as you aren’t holding or supporting the phone yourself and you aren’t entering data into the GPS while driving.
- Electronic Communication Device, Use of While Driving Prohibited, When — Citation of Law — Definitions — School Bus Operations, Prohibited Acts — Inapplicability, When — Penalties for Violations — Search of Device, Right to Decline — Preemption.https://revisor.mo.gov/main/OneSection.aspx?section=304.822.
- Welcome to Missouri Roadways.https://www.mshp.dps.missouri.gov/MSHPWeb/Publications/Brochures/documents/SHP-441.pdf.
