Colorado Hands-Free Driving Law Explained

Colorado's hands-free driving law is a vital regulation designed to curb distracted driving and improve road safety across the state. As mobile device usage becomes more prevalent behind the wheel, this law outlines specific rules about when and how drivers can interact with their phones and other electronic devices.

What the Law Prohibits

Colorado law prohibits the use of mobile electronic devices for manual data entry, texting, and calling while driving, with stricter conditions for novice and young drivers.

Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using cell phones for any purpose, including hands-free or voice-activated functions, while driving.
Drivers 18 and older are not allowed to manually use a mobile device to talk, text, or enter data unless they are using a hands-free method like Bluetooth or voice commands.

There are exceptions to the rule:

Emergency use to contact police, fire department, or emergency medical services.
Use of factory-installed equipment such as GPS or infotainment systems is allowed, provided it does not require manual input while driving.

Penalties for Violations

Violating the hands-free law can lead to significant penalties:

First offense: $50 fine and 2 points on your license
Subsequent offenses: $100 fine and 4 points on your license

For drivers under 18, a violation of the hands-free law can lead to:

License suspension after repeated offenses
Higher insurance premiums
Mandatory traffic school or additional testing

The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) supports the law with public awareness campaigns, emphasizing how distracted driving contributes to serious traffic accidents.

Enforcement and Legal Considerations

This law is primary enforcement, meaning law enforcement officers can pull you over solely for violating the hands-free rule without needing another reason.

Drivers should be aware that officers may observe from elevated positions or use unmarked vehicles to spot violators. Officers may also testify based on observed behavior such as looking down repeatedly or swerving within lanes.

For commercial drivers, violations may also impact compliance with federal FMCSA regulations, which impose stricter hands-free requirements nationwide.

Staying Compliant

To comply with Colorado's hands-free law:

Use a dashboard or windshield phone mount.
Activate voice commands before starting your trip.
If you must handle your phone, pull over safely to a legal stopping point.

Drivers who are unsure about legal compliance or want to better prepare should review Colorado's Express Lane Fines and Rules and other driving safety regulations.

Related Resources

Staying informed and adjusting your driving habits to comply with Colorado's hands-free law is not only a legal obligation—it’s a critical step in keeping everyone on the road safer.