News : January 1, 2026 Fines apply for phone violations while driving

Starting TODAY: Iowa moves from warning to enforcement - hands‑free only while driving.  Law Enforcement may now issue citations for any use of electronic devices while driving unless the device is used hands‑free. 

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Iowa will enforce a hands-free driving law that prohibits the use of handheld electronic devices while driving. This law aims to reduce distracted driving and enhance road safety.

Key Provisions of the Law

Activity Allowed - Using a phone-In hands-free mode,    (Voice Activated) 

NOT ALLOWED - Holding the phone, texting, scrolling

GPS navigation - Allowed n hands free mode              

NOT ALLOWED - Manually entering coordinates

Making calls - Allowed - in hands free mode              

NOT ALLOWED - Holding the phone

Reading Messages  - ONLY Safety related alerts  

NOT ALLOWED - General Text Messages

Penalties for Violations

• First Offense: $100 fine
• Increased Penalties: If the violation results in injury or death, fines will be higher.

Additional Information

• The law applies even when stopped at traffic lights or stop signs.
• Drivers can use hands-free options like phone mounts, Bluetooth, and voice commands.
• The law aims to protect all road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, by reducing incidents caused by distracted driving.

Iowa's hands-free law is part of a broader effort to improve road safety and reduce the number of accidents related to distracted driving.