Here’s When You Can Use Your Phone While Driving in Maine

We know there are several restrictions on what we can't do with our cell phones while driving here in Maine, but here's what you can do!

We want to be clear: this information isn't meant to encourage cell phone use or any other distractions while driving. Instead, our goal is simply to inform you of your rights and what you're legally permitted to do, so you can avoid any unnecessary worries about breaking the law.

So, where do these rules and regulations stem from? When, what, and where are these laws in place?

The Hands-Free Driving Law, effective September 19th, 2019, here in Maine, prohibits holding any electronic device while driving, with exceptions for voice commands or devices mounted to the vehicle for certain functions. Violations carry a minimum $50 fine for the first offense, increasing to $250 for subsequent offenses within three years.

Read More: Is Your Window Tint Legal in Maine? Here’s the Law

Given all of that, now that we're on the same page about what we legally can't do while on the road, what is the one exception for phone use while driving in Maine?

As highlighted by the Maine Bureau of Highway Safety and Maine.gov, the primary exception to Maine's Hands-Free driving law allows drivers, except for those operating on a permit, to use a handheld device in emergencies to contact law enforcement or other emergency services personnel. This provision ensures that individuals can seek help in critical situations without violating the hands-free mandate.

Get our free mobile app

And there you have it! Aside from emergency circumstances when calling law enforcement or other emergency services, non-hands-free phone use in Maine is illegal.

What are your thoughts on the hands-free laws here in Maine? Have you gotten used to them since the change? We'd love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

Read More: Are You Aware of the '100-Foot Law' in Maine?