On June 19, 2025, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will carry out an enforcement operation targeting drivers suspected of breaching the hands-free cell phone law. The current law prohibits drivers from holding a phone or electronic communications device while driving, which includes activities such as talking, texting, or using an app. Offenders using a handheld cell phone while driving are subject to fines. A second violation within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense results in a point being added to the driver’s record.
“A driver’s focus should be on the road, not their phone,” Sergeant K. Ishii stated. “That text, phone call, email or social media post is not worth the risk to yourself and other people on the road.”
Drivers are advised to pull over to a safe parking spot if they need to make an important call or program directions. It is recommended to silence phones or place them out of reach before starting to drive.
