Can you send a text while stopped at a red light? Texas law might just surprise you

Dalia Faheid
·3 min read
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In 2022, nearly 1 in 6 crashes on Texas roads were caused by a distracted driver. Those crashes resulted in 487 deaths and 2,824 serious injuries.

Since Sept. 1, 2017, it has been illegal to read, write or send a text while driving in Texas. Violators can face a fine of up to $200, or worse, a crash.

“One in five crashes in Texas is caused by distracted driving,” said James Bass, the Texas Department of Transportation’s then-executive director, in a statement at the time. “We are pleased the Texas Legislature recognizes the extreme danger caused by texting and driving. The new law sends a very clear message to Texans to put down their phones and focus on the road. We are hopeful this new law will help save lives and reduce injuries.”

Texas texting and cellphone laws

Texting while driving is illegal everywhere in Texas, and some cities ban cellphone use altogether while on the road. Exceptions to the law include emergency communication or messaging when the vehicle is stopped.

For those under 18 years old, Texas law bans all cellphone use while driving, including hands-free, except in emergencies. School bus operators are prohibited from using cellphones while driving if children are present.

Texas cellphone laws to remember:

  • You cannot send or receive electronic messages while driving in Texas.

  • Drivers with learner’s permits are prohibited from using cellphones in the first six months of driving.

  • Using any handheld device while driving in a school zone is illegal.

  • Drivers under 18 years old are prohibited from using handheld devices.

  • School bus drivers cannot use cellphones at all while driving if children are present.

Use these guidelines from the Texas Department of Transportation to drive safely:

  • Never use your cellphone while driving.

  • Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text.

  • Familiarize yourself with local laws.

Is it legal to text at a red light or stop sign?

If a vehicle is stopped at a stop sign or red light, it would be legal to send or receive a text message, the Texas Department of Public Safety told the Star-Telegram. It is only when the vehicle is moving that texting would be illegal, spokesperson William Lockridge said.

The law states the following: “An operator commits an offense if the operator uses a portable wireless communication device to read, write, or send an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle unless the vehicle is stopped. To be prosecuted, the behavior must be committed in the presence of or within the view of a peace officer or established by other evidence.”

What if I need to text or call someone immediately?

It’s illegal in Texas to text and drive, so if you can’t wait to make a call or text, pull to a safe place. The Texas Department of Insurance recommends turning off your cellphone until you reach your destination and placing it out of sight in the glove box or console.

TxDOT offers these tips to prevent distracted driving:

  • Always give driving your full attention.

  • Pull off the road entirely and come to a complete stop before you talk or text.

  • Put your phone away, turn it off, or use an app or your phone settings to block texts and calls or send auto reply texts while you are driving.

  • Tell friends, family, and coworkers you won’t respond to calls or texts when you are behind the wheel.

  • Remember that all distractions are dangerous, so pay full attention when behind the wheel.

What happens if I’m caught texting and driving?

A first offense is punishable by a fine up to $99. Any subsequent offense carries a fine up to $200. Some cities have additional ordinances that are more restrictive.