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West Virginia Phone Use While Driving Laws (2026)

Restricted: 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).

RestrictedVerified Jun 18, 2026

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Official source: code.wvlegislature.gov →

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

Phone Use While Driving in states bordering West Virginia

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

KentuckyConditional
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.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
MarylandRestricted
Maryland bans handheld use for all drivers while in motion — hands-free only. Under Md. Transp. 21-1124.2 you may not use your hands to use a handheld phone, except to start or end a call.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: mgaleg.maryland.gov · Full Maryland 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 →
PennsylvaniaRestricted
Under Paul Miller's Law, Pennsylvania bans handheld use of any interactive mobile device for all drivers and requires hands-free use instead. The law took effect June 5, 2025 with warnings only in its first year, and $50 fines began June 5, 2026 (75 Pa.C.S. 3316.1).
Verified Jul 13, 2026 · Source: pa.gov · Full Pennsylvania 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 →

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