New law banning hand-held mobile devices while driving is coming to Colorado

In Colorado, roughly 36 crashes per day involve a distracted driver. In fact, last year, 77% of Colorado drivers admitted to using their phone while driving. It’s not hard to believe — it seems everywhere you look while on the road, a driver has their eyes and hands on their phone. But thanks to new legislation passed earlier this year, that’s about to change.

In a significant move to enhance road safety and reduce distracted driving crashes, Colorado will implement a new law beginning Jan. 1, 2025, that prohibits drivers in Colorado from using a mobile electronic device while driving unless they use a hands-free accessory.

If you get caught violating this law, you can have the charge dismissed if you show proof that you’ve purchased a hands-free accessory. Exceptions to the law apply to individuals reporting emergencies, utility workers, code enforcement officers, animal protection officers, first responders and individuals in parked vehicles.

As the January 2025 deadline approaches, CDOT urges all drivers to adopt safer driving practices and ensure you are prepared when the law takes effect. Learn how to use your car’s Bluetooth system, invest in a dashboard cellphone mount or car speakerphone system, and review the penalties for violating the law at codot.gov/handsfreeco.