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# Wireless cell phone laws faqs I think anything can be a distraction
- URL: https://www.smdp.com/wireless-cell-phone-laws-faqs-i-think-anything-can-be-a-distraction/
- Published: 2008-07-01T15:00:00.000Z
- Updated: 2026-10-24T20:01:27.000Z
- Author: Guest Author
- Tags: local, Santa Monica, #archive-import

Q: What are the fines if I’m convicted? A: The base fine for the first offense is $20 and $50 for subsequent convictions. However, with the addition of penalty assessments, the total amount will be more than triple the base fine.

Q: Will the conviction appear on my driving record? A: Yes, but the violation point will not be added.

Q: Are passengers affected by this law? A: No. This law only applies to the person driving a motor vehicle.

Q: Can I be pulled over by a law enforcement officer for using my handheld wireless telephone? A: Yes. A law enforcement officer can pull you over just for this infraction.

Q: Does the new “hands-free” law prohibit you from dialing a wireless telephone while driving or just talking on it? A: The new law does not prohibit dialing, but drivers are strongly urged not to dial while driving.

Q: Will it be legal to use a Bluetooth or other earpiece? A: Yes, however you cannot have both ears covered.

Drivers under 18 Q: Am I allowed to use my wireless telephone hands free? A: No. Drivers under the age of 18 may not use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic communication or mobile services device to speak or text while driving in any manner, even hands free.

Q: Why is the law stricter for provisional drivers? A: Statistics show that teen drivers are more likely than older drivers to be involved in crashes because they lack driving experience and tend to take greater risks. Teen drivers are vulnerable to driving distractions such as talking with passengers, eating or drinking, and talking or texting on wireless phones, which increase the chance of getting involved in serious vehicle crashes. \* Source California Highway Patrol

*Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 1, 2008.* [Read the original PDF.](https://s3.us-east-1.amazonaws.com/smdp%5Fbackissues/070108.pdf?ref=smdp.com)