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Is it illegal to use your phone as a GPS while driving?

I am so directionally challenged—I can’t go two miles outside the radius of my home without getting lost. That said, I usually use my phone as a GPS while driving. Is this illegal?

Melanie Johnson · Updated on Mar 29, 2022

Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.

I feel you on being directionally challenged—I could get lost in my own backyard! Laws for cellphone use while driving vary from state to state, so you’ll want to check out your state’s specific law. In my neck of the woods, using your cellphone as a GPS is not illegal so long as it’s voice-operated and hands-free.

Let’s dig into that.

California’s distracted driving law makes it illegal to drive while “holding or operating” a wireless communication device.

It is not illegal to operate your phone hands-free with voice commands.

Regardless of your state’s specific legality, operating your phone with your hands while driving is not exactly a

safe driving practice

. Keep those hands on the wheel and consider investing in a cell phone mount for your car!

Staying focused keeps you safe on the road. Know what else does? A reliable

policy.

can provide you with the coverage you need for a price that won’t break the bank. In fact, Jerry users save an average of $887 per year on car insurance!

MORE:

How much a distracted driving ticket costs you in the long run

View full answer

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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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