Starting January 1, 2026, Louisiana drivers can be fined for holding a cellphone while driving.
This new hands-free driving law affects drivers in Baton Rouge, Gonzales, Prairieville, Denham Springs, and across Louisiana. If you drive with your phone in your hand, even for a second, you could be fined.
What the Hands-Free Law Says
Louisiana law now makes it illegal to hold a cellphone while driving.
This includes:
- Talking on the phone
- Texting or typing
- Scrolling social media
- Using apps
- Holding your phone to look at GPS
Even holding the phone for a short time is not allowed. Tell us what you think in our subreddit.
What Drivers Can Still Do
Hands-free phone use is allowed.
Drivers may:
- Talk using Bluetooth
- Use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto
- Use a mounted phone for GPS
- Use voice commands without touching the phone
The rule is simple. If your hands are on the phone instead of the wheel, it is illegal.
Related: New Louisiana Car Accident Law Limits Recovery in January 1, 2026
Baton Rouge Driving Examples
Example 1: I-10 Traffic Near College Drive
Traffic is slow during the morning commute. You pick up your phone to check a message. Even in stop-and-go traffic, this can lead to a ticket.
Example 2: School Zones on Perkins Road
You drive through a school zone and hold your phone to change a song. Fines are higher in school zones. This can cost much more than a normal ticket.
Example 3: Construction on Airline Highway
Road work is common on Airline Highway. Holding a phone in a construction zone can lead to bigger fines, especially if a crash happens.
Fines and Penalties
Starting January 1, 2026:
- Tickets start at about $100
- Fines increase in school zones and construction zones
- Penalties can increase if a crash happens while a phone is in use
These fines are meant to reduce distracted driving and keep roads safer.
Related: Chris Corzo Injury Attorneys Wins 2025 Best of Ascension Award
Emergency Use Is Allowed
Drivers can still:
- Call 911
- Report a crash or road danger
Emergency responders are also allowed to use devices while on duty.
Why Louisiana Passed This Law
Distracted driving causes serious crashes every year in Louisiana. Families who lost loved ones pushed for this law for many years.
Other states with hands-free laws saw fewer crashes and fewer deaths. One state reported more than 1,500 fewer crashes in one year after passing a similar law.
Even saving one life makes a difference.
How Baton Rouge Drivers Can Get Ready
- Set up Bluetooth in your vehicle
- Use a phone mount for navigation
- Practice hands-free driving now
- Share this information with family and friends
Building good habits now can help avoid tickets later.
Final Reminder for Louisiana Drivers
If you drive in Baton Rouge or anywhere in Louisiana, remember this. Starting January 1, 2026, holding a phone while driving can lead to a fine. Go hands-free. Stay focused. Help prevent distracted driving crashes.