Ontario's distracted-driving law bans the use of hand-held wireless communication devices, hand-held electronic entertainment devices, and certain display screens while driving. While driving, you are prohibited from:
- Using a hand-held wireless communication device, such as a cell phone
- Using a hand-held electronic entertainment device
- Sending or reading text messages or email
- Programming or changing information on a GPS device by hand
- Viewing a display screen unrelated to driving, such as a DVD player or laptop
What is allowed
You may use hands-free devices — with an earpiece, headset, speakerphone, or Bluetooth — including using a hand-held device in hands-free mode. A GPS device may be used hands-free if it is securely mounted and does not move while the vehicle is in motion.
All drivers are exempt if they must call 911, or if they are safely pulled off the roadway and not impeding traffic, or legally parked.
Penalties have increased
Ontario's distracted-driving penalties — fines, demerit points, and licence suspensions — have risen significantly over the years. Check Ontario's current penalties for the amounts in force today.