A 3-minute lesson from the Michigan course. Read the rules and examples, follow the handbook page references, and check your understanding before you move on.
Michigan's general cell phone law covers every driver: you can't hold or use a phone or tablet while driving on a public road. Teens on Level 1 or 2 have an even stricter rule under Kelsey's Law.
Know the rule
The general cell phone law (MCL 257.602b) bans all drivers from holding or using a mobile electronic device, such as a phone or tablet, while operating a motor vehicle on a public road, street, highway or other public venue.
Operating a device by voice, where your hands do no more than press, tap or swipe a single button to turn a function on or off or pick a name or number.
A Level 2 teen wants to call a friend through the car's hands-free system. Not allowed — Kelsey's Law bans non-emergency calls for Level 1 and 2. Her mother, a fully licensed adult, may make that call hands-free after a single tap.
Put it into practice
You see a driver weaving across lanes who seems drunk. You may call 911 while driving to report it — reporting an impaired driver is an emergency exception, even for GDL teens.
Check your understanding
Read the question, decide on an answer, then open it to check the explanation. These are Roadwise study questions based on the source handbook.
Which state law generally prohibits all drivers from holding or using a cell phone while driving?
The Move Over Law
The Basic Speed Law
The general cell phone law
Kelsey's Law (MCL 257.602c)
Answer: The general cell phone law
Michigan's general cell phone law (MCL 257.602b) prohibits all drivers from holding or using a cell phone while driving.