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Illinois Phone Use While Driving Laws (2026)

Restricted: Illinois bans handheld use of an electronic communication device for all drivers and requires hands-free use instead (625 ILCS 5/12-610.2).

RestrictedVerified Jun 18, 2026

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Official source: ilga.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Phone Use While Driving in states bordering Illinois

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

IndianaRestricted
Indiana bans handheld use for all drivers — hands-free only. The ban took effect July 1, 2020 under HEA 1070. IC 9-21-8-59 says you may not hold a telecommunications device while driving.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: in.gov · Full Indiana rule →
IowaRestricted
Iowa bans handheld use for all drivers — hands-free only. The law took effect July 1, 2025, and citations started January 1, 2026. Iowa Code 321.276 bars holding, viewing, or manipulating a device.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: legis.iowa.gov · Full Iowa rule →
KentuckyConditional
Kentucky bans texting while driving but not handheld calls. You can't write, send, or read a text-based communication while driving (KRS 189.292). Adults may still hold the phone to talk.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: apps.legislature.ky.gov · Full Kentucky rule →
MissouriRestricted
Under Missouri's Siddens Bening Hands Free Law, handheld use is banned for all drivers — hands-free only. Enforcement began January 1, 2025. RSMo 304.822 bars holding an electronic communication device.
Verified Jun 18, 2026 · Source: revisor.mo.gov · Full Missouri rule →
WisconsinConditional
Wisconsin bans composing or sending texts or email while driving (Wis. Stat. 346.89(3)). …
Verified Sep 9, 2026 · Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · Full Wisconsin rule →

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