Texting law — Iowa Permit Test

Before writing, sending or reading a text, email or social media post, you must bring the vehicle to a complete stop off the traveled part of the road.

Even stopped at a red light you are still in traffic and must be ready to move. Pull off the road before you touch the phone.

Before writing, sending, or reading a text message, email, or social media post, the vehicle must be brought to a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway.

Members of public safety agencies performing official duties are an exception to Iowa's texting law.

Police and fire crews may need to send messages while answering a call. The exception covers that work, not everyday drivers.

Members of public safety agencies performing official duties.

Distracted driving is a primary traffic offense: an officer can pull you over for it alone.

Police do not need another reason to stop you. Using a phone in your hand is enough to get a ticket.

Distracted driving is considered a “primary” traffic offense—meaning an officer can pull you over for a violation.

Besides fines, a distracted driving conviction can get your license or permit suspended or revoked.

A text is not worth losing your permit. The state can take away your right to drive for it.

In addition to paying fines, a distracted driving conviction could also result in your license or permit being suspended or revoked.

If you drive distracted and cause the death of another person, you could face more than $1,000 in fines, a suspended license and, depending on the circumstances, a vehicular homicide charge.

Looking at a phone for a few seconds can kill someone. The law treats that death as a very serious crime.

If you drive distracted and cause the death of another person, you could face more than $1,000 in fines, have your license suspended, and depending on the circumstances, be charged with vehicular homicide.

You need to reply to a text. What must you do first?

Stop completely off the traveled roadway. Even stopped at a red light you are still in traffic and must be ready to move. Pull off the road before you touch the phone. Iowa Driver's License Manual, p.36: “Before writing, sending, or reading a text message, email, or social media post, the vehicle must be brought to a complete stop off the traveled portion of the roadway.”