Texting-And-Driving Law For New Teen Drivers Begins Sunday

By Holliday Moore
Howard Fischer, Capitol Media Services
Published: Wednesday, June 27, 2018 - 11:13am
Updated: Wednesday, June 27, 2018 - 11:14am

Beginning Sunday morning, Arizona's new law banning texting begins, but only for a narrow few.

Up until this weekend, Arizona was the last of two states to enforce a ban on texting while driving.

When the new law goes into effect, it will limit officers to ticketing only teens who are driving during their first six months under a learner's permit.

And, in those cases, the officer cannot pull over teen drivers simply because they were seen texting or talking.

The law requires the officer observe another violation, such as failing to fully stop before turning at a red light or speeding.

It also allows texting in cases of emergencies.

Penalties start at $75 for a first and second offense, and increase to $100 and a loss of license if a teen is caught a third time.

The last state without a ban on texting while driving is Montana.