California § 23123.5 - A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld w
Full text of California Public Contract Code - PCC § 23123.5 — A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld w, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 23123.5. A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld w
(a) A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device unless the wireless telephone or electronic wireless communications device is specifically designed and configured to allow voice-operated and hands-free operation, and it is used in that manner while driving. (b) This section shall not apply to manufacturer-installed systems that are embedded in the vehicle. (c) A handheld wireless telephone or electronic wireless communications device may be operated in a manner requiring the use of the driverâs hand while the driver is operating the vehicle only if both of the following conditions are satisfied: (1) The handheld wireless telephone or electronic wireless communications device is mounted on a vehicleâs windshield in the same manner a portable Global Positioning System (GPS) is mounted pursuant to paragraph (12) of subdivision (b) of Section 26708 or is mounted on or affixed to a vehicleâs dashboard or center console in a manner that does not hinder the driverâs view of the road. (2) The driverâs hand is used to activate or deactivate a feature or function of the handheld wireless telephone or wireless communications device with the motion of a single swipe or tap of the driverâs finger. (d) A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a base fine of twenty dollars ($20) for a first offense and fifty dollars ($50) for each subsequent offense. (e) This section does not apply to an emergency services professional using an electronic wireless communications device while operating an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined in Section 165, in the course and scope of his or her duties. (f) For the purposes of this section, âelectronic wireless communications deviceâ includes, but is not limited to, a broadband personal communication device, a handheld device or laptop computer with mobile data access, or a pager.
Source: official California text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About California § 23123.5
What does Public Contract Code - PCC § 23123.5 cover?
Section 23123.5 ("A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while holding and operating a handheld w") is part of the Public Contract Code - PCC, the codified statutory law of California. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite California § 23123.5?
A common citation format is "Public Contract Code - PCC § 23123.5" (California). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of California law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the California official source linked on this page or consult a licensed California attorney.
How does California § 23123.5 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in California can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in California.