New York's Distracted Driving Laws: What You Need to Know

Holding your phone at a red light is illegal, but there are some exceptions

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:33am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York has strict laws against distracted driving, including using hand-held phones and other portable electronic devices while behind the wheel. This applies even when your vehicle is stopped at a red light. However, there are some exceptions, such as using hands-free features or calling emergency services.

Why it matters

Distracted driving is a major contributor to crashes in New York, accounting for one in five accidents. The state has taken a strong stance to curb this dangerous behavior and protect public safety on the roads.

The details

Under New York law, drivers are prohibited from using hand-held mobile phones or other portable electronic devices, whether the vehicle is moving or stopped at a red light. This includes making calls, texting, checking emails, or using apps. The only exceptions are for emergency calls to 911 or contacting medical, fire, or police personnel. Drivers can use hands-free features like voice-activated calling, speaker phone, or Bluetooth through their car's audio system, as long as they are not distracted from the task of driving.

  • New York banned hand-held phone use while driving in 2001, making it the first state in the nation to do so.
  • Texting while driving was officially banned by law in New York in 2009.
  • In recent years, New York has strengthened its distracted driving laws with a 'No Touch' law that bans physically handling or touching a hand-held phone or other electronic device while driving.

The players

New York Department of Motor Vehicles

The state agency responsible for defining and enforcing distracted driving laws in New York.

New York Governor's Traffic Safety Committee

A state-level organization that provides data and guidance on traffic safety issues, including the prevalence of distracted driving crashes in New York.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Drivers caught using hand-held devices while driving in New York face fines ranging from $50 to $450, as well as points on their driving record that can lead to increased insurance costs and potential license suspension.

The takeaway

New York's strict distracted driving laws make it clear that using a hand-held phone or device, even when stopped at a red light, is illegal and puts public safety at risk. Drivers should keep their focus on the road and use hands-free features if they need to make a call or access their device.