Under California law, when is it legal for an adult driver (18+) to hold and use a cell phone while behind the wheel?
While stopped at a red light.
California prohibits holding a phone even at a stop; the vehicle must be parked.
When using speakerphone.
Speakerphone on a handheld device still requires holding the phone, which is illegal.
Only when the phone is mounted and operated with a single tap or swipe.
Only during emergencies.
Emergencies are one valid use, but hands-free mounted operation is the general rule.
California Vehicle Code §23123.5 requires hands-free operation for all adult drivers. The phone must be mounted (dashboard, windshield, or center console) and may only be activated with a single tap or swipe of the finger. Drivers under 18 cannot use any phone — hands-free or not.
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