On July 21, 2025, the Orange County Sheriff’s Department will conduct an enforcement operation targeting drivers suspected of violating the hands-free cell phone law. Under current regulations, drivers are prohibited from holding a phone or electronic communications device while driving. This includes activities such as talking, texting, or using an app. Violating this law is punishable by a fine. A second violation within 36 months of a prior conviction 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. Before driving, it is recommended to silence phones or place them out of reach.
