Is it legal to use your phone while driving in Illinois?

In Illinois, the law regarding phone use while driving prohibits the use of handheld devices unless they are hands-free. This means that you cannot hold your phone to make calls, send texts, or access apps while operating a vehicle. However, using a phone that is mounted or operated through a hands-free device—such as a Bluetooth headset or a speakerphone feature—does comply with the law. This was implemented to reduce distractions and improve road safety.

While there are specific circumstances under which some limited usage might be acceptable, the general rule is that drivers must refrain from using handheld devices to help ensure they are fully focused on the task of driving. The correct understanding of the law emphasizes the importance of hands-free technology for safer driving practices.