Hands-Free Law for Mobile Devices
As of January 1, 2025, Colorado has enacted one of its most transformative traffic safety laws in decades. The new hands-free driving law prohibits drivers from holding or manually using mobile electronic devices for any reason while driving. While hands-free accessories remain permitted, the law represents a significant statewide effort to reduce distracted driving accidents and protect public safety.
Were You or Someone You Know Injured?
Understanding the Law’s Scope and Purpose
This law broadens Colorado’s previous cellphone restrictions, now outlawing:
No holding or manually using a phone for voice calls, video viewing, texting, or app use. The Colorado Department of Transportation clarifies that drivers cannot hold their phone for any reason while driving.
No touching a phone at stoplights or while stuck in traffic. According to the official Senate Bill 24-065, the law still applies even when stopped in traffic or at red lights.
The only way to legally interact with your phone is via hands-free technology.
Why this matters: A statewide survey found that 77% of Colorado drivers admit to using their phones while driving, as reported by CDOT’s 2024 Driver Behavior Report. This law aims to change that culture.
Real-World Impact in Colorado (2025 So Far)
- Phone-motion distraction dropped by 3.3%, according to Cambridge Mobile Telematics research. This data analyzed over 3.8 million trips between December 2024 and February 2025.
- Prevented an estimated 88 crashes, 49 injuries, and $3.5 million in damages based on the reduction in distracted driving incidents since the law’s implementation.
- Colorado State Patrol issued 94 citations, representing a 135% increase compared to early 2024. The counties with the highest citations were Jefferson, El Paso, Weld, Douglas, and Adams.
Enforcement and Penalties
First Offense:
$75 fine + 2 license points as outlined in Colorado’s official penalty structure
Dismissed if the driver shows proof of buying a hands-free device – this one-time dismissal option is available for first-time violators
Repeat Offenses:
2nd offense: $150 + 3 points within any 24 months
3rd+ offense (within 2 years): $250 + 4 points, with escalating consequences for habitual violators
This is a secondary offense; drivers can only be cited if stopped for a primary traffic offense or if the officer observes careless or imprudent driving while holding a device.
Were You or Someone You Know Injured?
What You CANNOT Do While Driving
- Hold your phone for calls, texting, apps, videos, or navigation – the Colorado Department of Transportation explicitly states that drivers cannot hold their phone for any reason while driving.
- Interact with your phone at red lights or in stopped traffic – this restriction applies even when temporarily stopped, as confirmed by Denver7’s reporting on the law.
- Wear both earbuds/headphones while driving – Colorado law prohibits having headphones or earbuds in both ears as it impairs the ability to hear emergency sirens and horns.
- Place your phone in unstable locations A cupholder doesn’t meet the definition of a hands-free accessory as it still requires you to interact with the phone manually and is not secure.
Legal Exceptions to the Cell Phone Ban
- Bluetooth headsets and earpieces (single-ear only) for hands-free calling and communication
- Dashboard phone mounts that securely hold devices for GPS navigation and hands-free operation
- Built-in systems like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto that integrate with your vehicle’s display and controls
- One-touch or voice-activated controls that don’t require manual handling of the device
Tip: Set your destination and music before driving to avoid any temptation to handle your device while on the road.
Emergency & Special Exceptions
The law does NOT apply when:
Calling 911 or emergency services to report fires, serious accidents, medical emergencies, or hazardous conditions
You’re a first responder, utility worker, or code enforcement officer acting within the scope of official duties
You’re a commercial driver operating a commercial vehicle with a CDL license
Your vehicle is legally parked and not in motion on roadways
Emergency situations include any scenario where someone fears for their life or safety, believes a criminal act may occur, or needs to report reckless driving behavior, as defined by Colorado’s General Assembly guidelines.
Across Colorado, we are still noticing a huge issue, people continuing to text and drive. Earlier this year, the Hands Free law was implemented to ticket anyone who was caught. Here’s what happened over the last three months. @CBSNewsColorado pic.twitter.com/OuWMS2L6yL
— Brian Sherrod (@briansherrodtv) April 1, 2025
How to Comply Immediate Action Steps
- Buy a hands-free device (mount or headset) – dashboard mounts and Bluetooth headsets are the most popular compliance options
- Set your music and navigation before shifting into drive to avoid any temptation to handle your device
- Use Do Not Disturb While Driving mode available on most smartphones to automatically block notifications
- Configure your car’s speaker system if your vehicle is compatible with Bluetooth or has built-in connectivity features
These simple steps can save you from costly fines and, more importantly, prevent potentially deadly accidents on Colorado roads.
Hands-Free Law Is a Secondary Offense – But Don’t Be Fooled
Colorado’s new hands-free driving law is a secondary offense, meaning you can’t be pulled over just for holding your phone. But don’t let that give you a false sense of security. Distracted driving often leads to primary violations, such as speeding, lane drifting, or running a red light, all of which can result in a traffic stop. And once you’re stopped for a primary offense, that phone in your hand becomes a ticket, too. Bottom line: if your phone is in your hand, it’s only a matter of time before it leads to a primary offense.
How to Get Your First Colorado Hands-Free Driving Ticket Dismissed
The one-time dismissal option for first-time violators of Colorado’s hands-free law (SB24-065) is designed to eliminate both the fine and the license points. For drivers who inadvertently commit a first-time offense, this valuable dismissal option is included to encourage compliance and education rather than just a penalty.
How to Get Your First Offense Dismissed:
If you receive a citation for a first-time violation of the hands-free driving law, you may be able to get it dismissed by following these steps:
Purchase a Hands-Free Device: The core requirement is to show proof that you’ve purchased a hands-free accessory. This could include:
- Bluetooth headsets
- Dashboard phone mounts
- Using a built-in system like Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- A car speakerphone system
- Dashboard mounts and Bluetooth headsets are among the most popular options for compliance.
Provide Proof of Purchase and Affirmation:
- You will need to present your receipt or other verifiable proof of purchase for the hands-free accessory to the court clerk in the jurisdiction where you received the traffic citation.
- You will also need to formally affirm, often under penalty of perjury, that this is your first time utilizing this dismissal option for a distracted driving violation
Where to Take Your Receipt and What to Expect:
Please note that specific procedures and contact methods may vary between different counties and court jurisdictions. You can verify the specific county and court clerk to contact, along with the exact information needed to complete the dismissal process, directly on your traffic ticket (summons).
- Locate the Court: Look at your traffic ticket (summons) for information about the specific court (municipal, county, or district) and its address.
- Contact the Clerk: It’s highly recommended to call the court clerk’s office directly. They can provide the most accurate and up-to-date instructions on how to submit your proof and affirmation. Many courts may offer options for in-person submission, by mail, or potentially through an online portal or email.
- Be Timely: Ensure you address the citation and submit your proof within the timeframe specified on your ticket or by the court.
What Happens Upon Dismissal?
When the court clerk successfully dismisses your first offense after you provide the required proof and affirms, under penalty of perjury, that you have not previously claimed this option to dismiss you get.
- No Fine: The $75 fine associated with a first offense will be dismissed.
- No License Points: The 2 license points typically assessed for a first violation will also be dismissed, meaning the offense will not appear on your driving record.
This one-time dismissal option serves as an educational opportunity, emphasizing the importance of hands-free driving and encouraging drivers to adopt safer habits moving forward. Remember, the law prohibits holding or manually using a mobile electronic device for any reason while driving, even at stoplights or while stuck in traffic.
The Dangers of Distracted Driving in Colorado
- Pedestrian deaths rose 50% from 2015 to 2023, according to CDOT’s comprehensive data
- Cyclist deaths rose 112.5% in that same time period while Colorado’s population only grew 8%
- In 2020, there were 10,166 distracted driving crashes resulting in 1,476 injuries and 68 deaths directly linked to phone use
- Over the last five years, distracted driving contributed to over 700 fatalities and 15,000 crashes in Colorado
Using your phone while driving increases your crash risk by 2 to 6 times, making it one of the most dangerous behaviors behind the wheel.
National Results Hands-Free Laws Work
- California: 31% drop in traffic deaths after enacting hands-free laws two years post-implementation
- Washington D.C.: Nearly 50% reduction in road fatalities two years after passing cellphone prohibition laws 20 years ago
- Michigan: 12.8% drop in distracted driving crashes after their 2023 hands-free law took effect
- Missouri & Alabama: Initial distraction declines of 0.6% and 2.4% grew to 5.8% and 7.4% after six months, according to Cambridge Mobile Telematics research
Colorado becomes the 30th state to implement comprehensive hands-free driving legislation, joining a proven nationwide movement toward safer roads.
Take Action Today – Protect Yourself and Others
Colorado’s hands-free law represents more than just a regulatory change; it’s a life-saving measure that demands immediate attention and compliance. With proven results already showing reduced crashes and injuries, every driver has a responsibility to embrace this critical safety initiative.
(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my phone at a red light or in traffic?
No, the law still applies even if you are stopped in traffic or at a stoplight. You must keep your hands off your phone at all times while your vehicle is operating.
What hands-free accessories are legally acceptable?
Bluetooth headsets, dashboard mounts, CarPlay and Android Auto, and car speaker phone systems are all approved hands-free accessories.
Can I get my first citation dismissed?
Yes, first-time violators currently can have the charge dismissed if they provide proof of purchasing a hands-free accessory.
Does this law apply to passengers?
No, the law specifically applies to drivers operating motor vehicles. Passengers are not restricted from using their phones.
What constitutes an emergency exception?
Emergencies include situations where someone fears for their life or safety, reporting fires, serious accidents, hazardous conditions, or reckless driving.
Are commercial drivers exempt?
Yes, individuals with a commercial driver’s license operating a commercial vehicle are exempt from this law.
How many points will I get on my license?
First offense carries 2 points, second offense 3 points, and third offense 4 points.
Contact ramos law
If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a distracted driver, don’t face the legal system alone. The combination of insurance companies, complex liability laws, and gathering proper evidence requires experienced legal guidance. Contact a qualified attorney immediately to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Colorado’s hands-free law is already seeing promising outcomes — inattentive driving-caused crashes are down by 19%.
— Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) (@ColoradoDOT) June 16, 2025
Thank you for putting down your phone and keeping your eyes on the road. Keep up the good work, Colorado! #HandsFreeCO pic.twitter.com/Ti9QX7VU2J