MEDIA: Photos from today’s event can be found in the SCDPS online photo album here. 

COLUMBIA – The SC Department of Public Safety is getting ready for South Carolina’s new hands-free law, which requires motorists to put their mobile electronic devices down while driving or face fines and penalties.

In a show of support for the new law, SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV and South Carolina Department of Transportation Secretary Justin Powell joined Governor Henry McMaster and other state lawmakers today during the ceremonial signing of the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act.

“I have been an outspoken advocate for a strong hands-free law for nearly 8 years now,” South Carolina Representative Bill Taylor, a primary sponsor of the law said. “The issue of highway safety is near and dear to me, and I am thrilled to see all the progress that South Carolina is making to keep our citizens safe as they travel through our great state.”

Under the new hands-free law, drivers are not allowed to hold or support a mobile electronic device with any part of their body; use a mobile device to read, compose, or transmit text, emails, app interactions, or website information; or watch motion on the device, which includes videos, movies, games, or video calls. Drivers who violate the law will be subject to a $100 fine on the first offense. Drivers with subsequent violations will be subject to a $200 fine and 2 points against their driver’s license.

“This hands-free law is a much-needed step toward a safer South Carolina,” SCDPS Director Robert G. Woods IV said. “Not only is distracted driving one of the most widespread and dangerous behaviors our troopers and officers encounter a daily basis—it is also one of the most easily-preventable. We feel confident that this law will deter people from using a cell phone while driving, which will lead to a reduction in the number of collisions and deaths on our roadways.”

During the ceremonial bill signing, SCDPS announced its new public education campaign, Hands Free SC, which aims to educate the public about the new law and provide information on the dangers of distracted driving. Soon, Hands Free SC campaign advertisements on billboards, radio, and social media will begin circulation.  

Additionally, SCDPS, SCDOT, and other state agencies are working together to spread awareness for the new hands-free law. SCDPS is collaborating with the SC Department of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism to post signs and banners in welcome areas across the state. The SC Department of Transportation has also begun posting permanent signs at every interstate highway entrance, and will soon display digital messages on the overhead message boards.  

South Carolina’s hands-free law will go into effect September 1, 2025. For the first 180 days after the law goes into effect, South Carolina law enforcement will only issue warnings for violations. Starting February 28, 2026, law enforcement will begin to issue tickets. 

To learn more about Hands Free SC and South Carolina’s hands-free law, visit: https://scdps.sc.gov/handsfree.

To read the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act in its entirety, visit: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/sess126_2025-2026/bills/3276.htm. 

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.