Myrtle Beach, February 5, 2026
South Carolina has implemented a new hands-free driving law aimed at reducing distracted driving across the state, including Myrtle Beach. This legislation enforces strict rules on mobile device usage for drivers, prioritizing roadway safety. With the formal ticketing set to begin soon, drivers must adapt to these regulations not only for legal compliance but also to support safer streets for all. Local businesses are encouraged to help employees adhere to these rules to foster a more efficient transportation system.
WHAT’S HAPPENING
What are the new rules for using electronic devices while driving in South Carolina?
Prohibits drivers from holding or supporting any mobile electronic device with any part of their body while driving, including texting, watching videos, or engaging in video calls. This law aims to reduce distracted driving and enhance road safety.
When did the South Carolina Hands-Free driving law become effective, and when do tickets start?
The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act officially took effect on September 1, 2025. Formal ticketing for violations began on February 28, 2026, after a 180-day warning period concluded.
Can I still use my phone for navigation or music under the new law?
Yes, you can use your device for navigation, streaming music, or podcasts, provided it is mounted or used hands-free (e.g., earpiece, wrist-worn device) and not held or supported by any part of your body.
What are the penalties for violating the new hands-free driving law?
Expect a $100 fine for a first offense. Subsequent violations within three years will incur a $200 fine and add two points to your driving record.
Are there any exceptions to the South Carolina hands-free driving law?
Drivers are permitted to use a cellphone to report an accident, emergency, or safety hazard to public safety officials. The law also does not apply if your vehicle is lawfully parked or stopped.
Myrtle Beach,
Hands-Free SC: New Law, New Rules for Drivers
South Carolina is enhancing roadway safety through its new hands-free driving law. Drivers across the state, including those in Myrtle Beach, must prepare for the full enforcement of these regulations, which are designed to reduce distracted driving and promote safer roads for everyone. The implementation reflects a commitment to prioritizing public safety while ensuring clarity for motorists.
The new South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act represents a significant step towards modernizing traffic regulations. For entrepreneurs, small business owners, and commuters in our vibrant communities, understanding and adapting to these changes is not just a matter of compliance, but also an contribution to the overall economic well-being and efficiency of local transportation networks. Clear, consistent regulations help foster an environment where individuals can focus on their pursuits without unnecessary roadside hazards.
Understanding the Hands-Free Act
The South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act officially took effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation builds upon previous efforts to curb distracted driving by broadening the restrictions on electronic device usage while operating a motor vehicle. The core principle is straightforward: drivers must keep their hands on the wheel and their focus on the road. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) has been actively involved in educating the public about these new requirements.
While the law became effective last year, a 180-day warning period was in place to allow drivers to adjust to the new regulations. During this period, law enforcement issued warnings rather than citations. However, that grace period is now concluding, and formal ticketing for violations is set to begin on February 28, 2026.
What the Law Prohibits
Under the new hands-free law, drivers are explicitly prohibited from holding or supporting a mobile electronic device with any part of their body while driving. This means devices cannot be held to the ear, rested on the lap, or propped up by the shoulder. The law also restricts using a mobile device to read, compose, or transmit texts, emails, app interactions, or website information. Furthermore, watching videos, movies, games, or engaging in video calls on a mobile device while driving is now unlawful.
Permitted Uses and Exceptions
The law focuses on prohibiting handheld use, but it does allow for certain hands-free applications. Drivers may use an earpiece or a device worn on the wrist for voice-based communication. Audio-based content, such as streaming music or podcasts, is permissible as long as the device is not held by the driver or supported by any part of their body. Similarly, navigation instructions and traffic updates from apps can be used, provided the device remains mounted or otherwise hands-free.
There are also specific exceptions for emergencies. Drivers are permitted to use a cellphone to report an accident, emergency, or safety hazard to a public safety official. Additionally, the law does not apply if a vehicle is lawfully parked or stopped.
Penalties for Violations
As the warning period concludes, drivers should be aware of the penalties for violating the hands-free law. These costs are designed to reinforce the importance of compliance and deter distracted driving. For a first offense, drivers will face a fine of $100. Subsequent violations within a three-year period will incur a higher fine of $200 and result in two points being added to the driver’s record. These structured penalties aim to encourage consistent safe driving practices across the state.
Impact on Myrtle Beach and Local Economy
The implementation of this hands-free law has broader implications for Myrtle Beach SC business and the local economy. Safer roads contribute to smoother logistics for delivery services and trade, reducing accident-related delays and costs. For Myrtle Beach small business owners, adapting to these rules means ensuring employees who drive for work are fully compliant, potentially through investing in hands-free accessories or company policies. This adaptation fosters a culture of responsibility and operational efficiency, promoting economic growth through enhanced safety. Entrepreneurs often thrive on adapting to new regulations, finding innovative solutions that not only meet legal requirements but also improve overall business practices and public trust.
This law reflects a community-wide effort to enhance safety, a shared value that benefits everyone. By reducing accidents caused by distracted driving, we can expect to see fewer traffic disruptions, lower insurance costs over time, and a more secure environment for residents and visitors alike. This collective commitment to responsible driving supports the continued vitality of our area.
Key Features of the South Carolina Hands-Free Driving Law
| Feature | Detail | Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Law Name | South Carolina Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act | State-level |
| Effective Date | September 1, 2025 | State-level |
| Warning Period End | February 28, 2026 | State-level |
| Citations Begin | February 28, 2026 | State-level |
| Main Prohibition | Holding or supporting a mobile electronic device with any part of the body while driving | State-level |
| First Offense Penalty | $100 fine | State-level |
| Subsequent Offense Penalty (within 3 years) | $200 fine and two points on driving record | State-level |
Looking Ahead: Commitment to Safer Roads
The new hands-free law in South Carolina is a testament to the state’s ongoing commitment to improving road safety for all. By embracing these regulations, drivers in Myrtle Beach and across the state contribute to a safer, more efficient transportation system. This commitment to order and public well-being ultimately supports a stable environment for South Carolina entrepreneurs and all residents. We encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with the full details of the law and make hands-free driving a consistent practice. Staying informed and compliant ensures not only personal safety but also contributes to the collective success and prosperity of our community.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Welcome to Myrtle Beach: Essential Traffic Laws for Visitors
South Carolina Considers Hands-Free Driving Legislation
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
