BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. — Drivers across Berkeley County and throughout the Palmetto State will soon face fines if caught holding or using an electronic device behind the wheel, as South Carolina’s new hands-free driving law moves into full enforcement.
The law, part of the state’s Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, officially took effect Sept. 1, 2025, but law enforcement has spent the past six months issuing warnings. That grace period ends Feb. 28, 2026, when deputies, police and troopers can begin issuing citations.
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The initiative is part of the “Hands Free SC” campaign led by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, aimed at reducing crashes caused by distracted driving.
Under the new law, drivers are no longer allowed to hold or support a mobile device with any part of their body while operating a vehicle. That includes texting, emailing, scrolling through apps, or watching videos. Even briefly picking up a phone while driving could result in a ticket.
Hands-free use — such as voice commands, Bluetooth systems, or dashboard-mounted devices — is still permitted.
Officials say the stricter law expands on South Carolina’s previous texting-and-driving ban by targeting a broader range of distractions.
Violators will face a $100 fine for a first offense. A second violation within three years increases the penalty to $200 and adds two points to the driver’s record. For commercial drivers, multiple violations could lead to temporary disqualification of their license.
There are some exceptions. Drivers are allowed to use their phones if they are parked or safely stopped, reporting emergencies, or using hands-free features for navigation, music, or calls. First responders are also exempt while performing official duties.
Authorities say the law is designed to address the growing dangers of distracted driving, which can involve visual, manual and cognitive distractions all at once.
“Any non-driving activity you engage in while behind the wheel increases your risk of crashing,” state officials warn.
Local law enforcement agencies across the state are expected to begin active enforcement immediately once citations are allowed, urging drivers to adjust their habits now.
The message from officials is simple: put the phone down and focus on the road.
