Charleston Issued 613 Hands-Free Driving Citations

Local police tallied hundreds of violations since full enforcement of the distracted driving law began this spring.

Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Law Enforcement

Charleston Issued 613 Hands-Free Driving Citations

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Between March 1, 2026, and August 30, 2026, the Charleston Police Department issued 613 citations under the state's Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act. The move marked the first six months of full enforcement for the regulation that prohibits holding mobile devices while driving.

Why it matters

The legislation seeks to reduce roadway distractions by requiring drivers to maintain focus behind the wheel. By penalizing the manual use of mobile phones, the state aims to discourage common distractions like scrolling, browsing, and watching videos.

Charleston police issued 613 citations and 267 warnings between March 1, 2026, and August 30, 2026. A first offense under the law carries a $100 fine, while a second offense within three years increases to $200 and adds two points to a driver's record.

The players

Charleston Police Department

This agency serves as the primary law enforcement organization responsible for patrolling city roads and enforcing state traffic statutes in Charleston.

Mount Pleasant Police Department

This local law enforcement agency reported issuing nearly 700 citations for distracted driving violations over an eight-month period.

The details

The law prohibits motorists from holding or supporting a mobile device to text, browse apps, watch videos, or make video calls while operating a vehicle. Drivers are permitted to use mounted navigation systems or engage in hands-free calls, music, and podcasts.

September 1, 2025: The Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act took effect.
March 1, 2026: The start of the full enforcement period for the law.
August 30, 2026: The end of the official citation reporting period.
September 30, 2026: The date of this report.

Legal Context

The enforcement of the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act reflects a broader shift toward stricter oversight of mobile device use in South Carolina. Data from neighboring jurisdictions like Berkeley County and Mount Pleasant highlight how regional authorities are prioritizing these traffic safety mandates.

Drivers in Charleston should be aware that police are actively issuing citations for handheld device use, which carries a $100 fine for a first offense. Residents are encouraged to utilize dashboard mounts for navigation and rely on hands-free technology to remain compliant while on the road.

The takeaway

Drivers must adapt to hands-free requirements by securing their devices before starting their commute to avoid fines. Prioritizing setup for navigation and audio before departing helps ensure both legal compliance and road safety.