DMVZoneBlogTexas bans reading, writing or sending messages while driving. Fines start at $25 to $99, double for repeats, and a crash that hurts someone can mean jail. School zones and teens have stricter rules.
Texas makes it illegal to read, write or send an electronic message while driving unless the car is stopped. A first offense is $25 to $99 and a repeat is $100 to $200. If texting causes a death or serious injury, it becomes a Class A misdemeanor with up to a year in jail and a $4,000 fine.
Unlike New Jersey or New York, Texas does not ban all handheld calls statewide. The statewide law targets messaging. But school zones, school property and young drivers have tighter rules, and many cities add their own.
The state law says the car must be "stopped" for texting to be legal. Being in slow traffic is not stopped. Pull into a parking spot instead.
| Situation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| First conviction | $25 to $99 fine |
| Second or later conviction | $100 to $200 fine |
| Texting causes death or serious bodily injury | Class A misdemeanor: up to $4,000 and 1 year in jail |
What is the fine range for a first Texas texting-while-driving conviction?
Answer: A. A first offense is $25 to $99.
A 17-year-old driver in Texas may use a phone while driving:
Answer: C. Drivers under 18 may not use wireless devices while driving except in an emergency.
Which is allowed under the Texas texting law?
Answer: B. Navigation is allowed. Messaging while the car is moving is not.
The statewide law targets messaging, but school zones, school property and many cities require hands-free. Drivers under 18 cannot use phones at all except in emergencies.
Generally no. The law says an officer who stops a driver for texting may not take or inspect the device unless another law allows it.
The state law preempts local rules on texting, but other local rules, such as hands-free zones, may still apply where allowed.
Checked against these pages on November 12, 2026. Laws change, so open the source before you rely on a number.
Rules and fees change. Always confirm the details with the official Texas DMV or motor vehicle agency before you act. DMVZone practice questions are written to teach the rules and are not copies of the real test.
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