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Kentucky Phone Use While Driving Laws (2026)

Conditional: Kentucky bans texting while driving but not handheld calls.

ConditionalVerified Jun 18, 2026

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Kentucky bans texting while driving but not handheld calls. You can't write, send, or read a text-based communication while driving (KRS 189.292). Adults may still hold the phone to talk.

Official source: apps.legislature.ky.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Phone Use While Driving in states bordering Kentucky

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

IllinoisRestricted
Illinois bans handheld use of an electronic communication device for all drivers and requires hands-free use instead (625 ILCS 5/12-610.2).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: ilga.gov · Full Illinois rule →
IndianaRestricted
Indiana bans handheld use for all drivers — hands-free only. The ban took effect July 1, 2020 under HEA 1070. IC 9-21-8-59 says you may not hold a telecommunications device while driving.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: in.gov · Full Indiana rule →
MissouriRestricted
Under Missouri's Siddens Bening Hands Free Law, handheld use is banned for all drivers — hands-free only. Enforcement began January 1, 2025. RSMo 304.822 bars holding an electronic communication device.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: revisor.mo.gov · Full Missouri rule →
OhioRestricted
Ohio bans holding or using any electronic wireless device for all drivers and requires hands-free use instead. The ban dates from 2023 (O.R.C. 4511.204).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: codes.ohio.gov · Full Ohio rule →
TennesseeRestricted
Tennessee requires all drivers to go hands-free: it is unlawful to physically hold or support a wireless device while driving (TCA 55-8-199).
Verified Jul 30, 2026 · Source: publications.tnsosfiles.com · Full Tennessee rule →
VirginiaRestricted
Virginia requires hands-free driving: it is unlawful to hold a handheld personal communications device while driving. The rule has been in place since 2021 (Va. Code 46.2-818.2).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: law.lis.virginia.gov · Full Virginia rule →
West VirginiaRestricted
West Virginia requires all drivers to go hands-free: you may not physically hold or support a device, and you may not make handheld calls (WV Code 17C-14-15).
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: code.wvlegislature.gov · Full West Virginia rule →

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