Handheld wireless devices — Utah Permit Test

A Utah driver may not use a handheld wireless communication device while driving to write, send, or read a written communication, dial a number, access the internet, view or record video, take a photograph, or enter data.

Every one of those takes the eyes off the road for seconds at a time, which is hundreds of feet on a highway.

A person may not use an HWC device while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state to manually write, send, or read a written communication

Utah law allows a driver over 18 to talk on a handheld device while driving as long as voice commands are used to connect the call.

The offense is what your hands and eyes are doing. Voice commands keep both of them where they belong.

Utah law allows drivers over 18 years of age to talk on an HWC device while driving as long as voice commands are used to connect to a call.

A Utah driver under 18 may use a handheld device while driving only during a medical emergency, to report a safety hazard or criminal activity, or to communicate with a parent or legal guardian.

A young driver has the least spare attention, so the exceptions are cut down to emergencies and a parent.

Drivers under the age of 18 may only use an HWC device while operating a motor vehicle during a medical emergency, reporting a safety hazard, reporting criminal activity, or communicating with a parent or legal guardian.

A Utah texting violation is a Class C misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $100, or a Class B misdemeanor where the driver inflicts bodily injury or has a previous violation.

It is a criminal offense rather than a ticket, and hurting somebody moves it up a class straight away.

A person convicted of a texting violation is guilty of a Class C misdemeanor with a maximum fine of $100 or a Class B misdemeanor if they inflict bodily injury or have a previous violation for this offense.

A Utah officer may pull a driver over for observing them texting.

It is not an offense added to something else. Texting alone is enough reason to be stopped.

Officers may pull a driver over if they observe a driver texting, etc.

Utah law allows hands-free and voice-activated use of GPS functions, and for reporting safety hazards, criminal activity, and medical emergencies.

The law is aimed at typing and reading, not at a navigation voice or a call for help.

When using hands-free and voice-activated technology, the law allows using GPS functions, reporting safety hazards, criminal activity, and medical emergencies.

What may a Utah driver not do with a handheld device while driving?

Read or send a written message. Every one of those takes the eyes off the road for seconds at a time, which is hundreds of feet on a highway. Utah Driver Handbook 2026-2027, p.58: “A person may not use an HWC device while operating a moving motor vehicle on a highway in this state to manually write, send, or read a written communication”