Colorado Distracted Driving Laws
Colorado distracted driving laws: texting and handheld phone bans, primary enforcement, fines, and teen restrictions.
Colorado distracted driving law covers texting, handheld phone use, and special rules for teen drivers. The details below come from the state vehicle code.
Texting ban
Yes — prohibited — typing or reading a text while driving is illegal in Colorado.
Handheld phone ban
No — allowed — holding the phone to talk is still allowed, but texting is not.
Enforcement
Primary enforcement: police can pull you over solely for this violation.
Teen / novice drivers
Under 18: no phone use at all.
Penalties
A first citation can cost $300.
Statute
Source: C.R.S. § 42-4-239. Last verified: 2026. Distracted driving laws change — confirm the current rule with your state DMV before you drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to text and drive in Colorado?
Yes — Colorado prohibits texting (and typing/reading messages) while driving.
Can I hold my phone in Colorado?
Holding the phone to talk is still allowed, though texting is prohibited.
What is the fine for distracted driving in Colorado?
About $300, and police can stop you for it alone.