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Colorado's new hands-free law will prohibit drivers from holding a mobile device while driving beginning Jan. 1, with some exceptions. Using a phone with a hands-free accessory, such as a phone mount or in-car speaker system, is allowed.

A law enforcement officer must see a driver engage in careless driving while holding a phone to issue a citation. Repeated offenses may incur steeper fines and license suspension points. Commercial drivers in commercial vehicles are exempt from the new rules.

Previously, the hands-free law applied only to drivers younger than 18. The new law also prohibits holding a phone while making calls, checking directions, watching videos and any other in-hand use. Texting while driving is already prohibited in Colorado.

A Colorado Department of Transportation survey in 2024 revealed that 77% of drivers reported using a phone while driving.

Twenty-nine other states ban hand-held mobile device use when driving.