New Rules Jan. 27

   Under California Vehicle Code sections 23123 and 23123.5 (often referred to as the “Hands-Free” or “No-Touch” laws), the price of a ticket is:

​First Offense: $162 minimum total (based on a $20 base fine plus mandatory court fees and assessments).

​Subsequent Offenses: $272 minimum total (based on a $50 base fine).

​Key Penalties & Rules

​License Points: A second violation within 36 months adds one point to your driving record, which can increase your insurance rates.

​No Touching: As of 2025, the law is strictly “no-touch.” You cannot hold or touch your phone for any reason—even at red lights—unless it is mounted and requires only a single swipe or tap to operate.

​Minors: Drivers under 18 are prohibited from using any electronic device, even in hands-free mode.