Come 2025, Colorado drivers could be fined for holding phone while driving

DENVER (KDVR) — Texting while driving has been illegal in Colorado for years, but starting in 2025, drivers will also be ticketed for holding and using a phone while driving.

In June, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 24-065, "Mobile Electronic Devices & Motor Vehicle Driving," which outlaws people from using a mobile electronic device while driving unless they use a hands-free accessory.

Previous Colorado law said only drivers under 18 years old are banned from using cell phones, now, that law has expanded to all drivers.

Per the bill's language, use or using a phone means, "Physically holding a mobile electronic device in the driver's hand or pinning a mobile electronic device to a driver's ear to conduct voice-based communication." Therefore, Colorado drivers should think of investing in hands-free add-ons.

The change goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2025, and the Colorado Department of Transportation will launch awareness campaigns to ensure all Colorado drivers are aware of the new law. CDOT is urging drivers to begin putting down the phone now in preparation for the law and buying hands-free accessories like dashboard mounts or speakerphone systems.

"For a long time, troopers have been able to detect when someone is driving distracted by a vehicle weaving between lanes, delayed starts at stop signs and lights, not to mention seeing a phone or other device in a driver's hand," said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "This legislation allows us to address risky and careless behaviors in a proactive way to increase the safety of all roadway users."

According to the law, a driver will only be cited if an officer sees the individual use a device in a way that caused them to drive in a "careless and imprudent manner."

Consequences of getting caught using a cell phone

According to the law, the first time a driver is caught holding and using a phone will result in a $75 fine and two license suspension points. If a driver is caught twice in a matter of 24 months, a $150 fine will be issued along with three license suspension points. Finally, if a driver is caught for a third or subsequent offense within 24 months, a $250 fine and four license suspension points will be issued.

A violation may be dismissed if the driver can prove they purchased a hands-free accessory.

“This new legislation is a crucial step toward making Colorado’s roads safer for everyone,” said Shoshana Lew, executive director of CDOT. “By encouraging drivers to focus solely on the task of driving, we can reduce the number of distracted driving incidents and prevent crashes that often come with such behavior. This law aligns with best practices from across the nation and reflects our commitment to protecting all road users, whether in a vehicle, on a bike or walking.”

In 2025, Colorado will join 29 other states that outlaw hand-held phones. According to CDOT, the states with similar laws reported decreases in distracted driving crashes.