Is Texting While Driving Illegal in Texas?

You are driving on a Texas road and want to send a text message. When does the law allow you to read, write or send it?

Answer choicesAny time if you drive slowlyOnly when the vehicle is stoppedOnly on highwaysOnly if the message is short

The answer

Texas law prohibits using a portable wireless device to read, write or send an electronic message while driving, unless the vehicle is stopped.

The ban covers reading, writing and sending messages, not just typing. Speed and message length do not matter.

TxDOT's 2024 handbook adds that the rule has exceptions for emergencies, and that drivers are banned from handheld device use while in active school zones.

Exceptions

A stopped vehicle is the exception stated by the DPS page.
The 2024 TxDOT handbook also lists emergencies as an exception.
The full statute (Sec. 545.4251) may contain other limited exceptions that this page does not list; check the statute text for the complete set.

Penalty

The TxDOT 2024 handbook states a fine of up to $99 for a first offense and up to $200 for later offenses.

Why this rule matters for safety

Texting takes your eyes, hands and attention off the road at the same time.

Official sources

DPS Increases Enforcement for Annual Distracted Driving Campaign · Texas Department of Public SafetyStatement of the rule against reading, writing or sending an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. Dated April 2, 2026.
Texas Road Tips handbook, 2024 edition · Texas Department of TransportationTexting section (about pages 6-7) with the emergency exception and fine amounts, and school zone note (about pages 16-17).
Statewide Texting While Driving Prohibition (sign manual) · Texas Department of TransportationCites Transportation Code Sec. 545.4251 as the statute. No date shown.

Rules checked against these sources on October 11, 2026. Laws change. Confirm with the Texas agency before you rely on this for a legal matter.

Is it illegal to text while driving in Texas?