Many people take driving for granted, simply thinking of it as a normal activity in their daily life. Driving is not an easy task, though, but one that requires your full and undivided attention, so that you can make correct split-second decisions when necessary.
Thousands of dashcam videos online show what happens when drivers look away from the road and glance at their phone even for just a moment. In Iowa, distracted driving caused over 900 crashes in 2024 alone.
To address this serious problem, states have been passing hands-free laws—and Iowa has recently joined this effort.
What Iowa’s hands-free law means for drivers
On April 2, 2025, Iowa became the 31st state to pass a hands-free driving law. This law prohibits you from manually using phones and other electronic devices while driving. Just holding your phone as you drive can result in a violation. Other prohibited actions include:
- Scrolling, typing or interacting with your phone using your hands
- Manually entering GPS coordinates
- Watching videos on your phone or tablet
- Reading texts or browsing social media while driving
- Dialing a number or making phone calls manually
Penalties for drivers caught violating the hands-free law have also gone into effect already. Since January 1, 2026, drivers may face up to $100 in fines and misdemeanor charges.
Simple ways to stay hands-free while driving
It’s still possible to use phones or tablets if it operates through voice commands or hands-free technology. Staying compliant with Iowa’s hands-free law becomes easier with the following practical solutions:
- Mount your phone on the dashboard or windshield
- Connect through Bluetooth for hands-free calling and music
- Activate voice command features like Siri or Google Assistant for calls and navigation
- Set up GPS directions before driving
- Use speakerphone features for important calls
- Plug auxiliary cables to play music directly from your phone
Additionally, if someone is accompanying you on your drive, have them navigate or reply to messages for you instead of attempting these tasks yourself.
Are there any exceptions to the hands-free law?
Iowa’s hands-free law does include specific exceptions where using handheld devices becomes legally acceptable. Hand-held phone use is acceptable during genuine emergencies, like calling the police, medical services or fire department. Moreover, emergency vehicle drivers can also use devices while doing their jobs.
Outside of these emergency situations, the law applies to all drivers on Iowa roads. The law knows that drivers today need technology for directions and phone calls. However, it creates a clear line between safe and dangerous phone use.
Making Iowa roads safer together
Iowa’s hands-free law is a significant step toward reducing preventable accidents on the road. While there’s no way to control what other drivers do, you can do your part to protect yourself and help ensure others’ safety. Every time you choose hands-free operation over handheld convenience, you contribute to safer roads for everyone.