Tennessee Phones & Distracted Driving

Under Tennessee's hands-free law, is it legal to hold and check your phone while stopped at a red light?

By DMV Master Editorial Team Updated Verified against Tenn. Code §55-8-199
A

Yes — the law only applies to moving vehicles.

Tennessee's law applies even when stopped.

B

No — holding a phone is prohibited even at stop lights.

Correct answer

C

Only if the vehicle is in park.

Being in drive, even stopped, triggers the ban.

D

Only for drivers under 18.

The law applies to all drivers.

Detailed Explanation

Tennessee's hands-free law (2019) prohibits holding a phone while operating a vehicle on any public road, including when stopped at red lights or in traffic. You must pull over and park to legally hold the device. The first-offense fine is $50.

Source: Tenn. Code §55-8-199

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