Driving news: Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania now fines drivers who hold a phone
Since June 5, 2026, a driver convicted of using a hand-held device while driving in Pennsylvania pays a $50 fine plus court costs and other fees. The year of written warnings under Paul Miller's Law is over.
- June 5, 2026fines from this date
- $50plus court costs and fees
- Stopped tooat a red light or in traffic
What the law forbids
Paul Miller's Law, signed in 2024, forbids using a hand-held device while driving. That includes the moments the car stands still because of traffic, a red light or another delay.
From which date
The law has applied since June 5, 2025. For its first year, police gave written warnings. Since June 5, 2026, a conviction brings a $50 fine plus court costs and other fees.
What is still allowed
You may use the phone to alert the authorities in an emergency, and you may use hands-free technology to make calls, follow a GPS and listen to music.
What stays the same
Pennsylvania's separate texting-while-driving ban still forbids sending, reading or writing text-based messages while the vehicle is moving. A driver who breaks either law and causes a crash can also be charged with a more serious offense.
What to do now
Set the route and the music before you drive, put the phone in a mount or out of reach, and use voice commands. Distracted driving is part of Pennsylvania's knowledge test, so it is worth knowing these rules before your permit.
Related Road to Permit guides
Official sources
- PennDOT — Shapiro Administration Reminds Drivers to Put the Phone Away or Pay a Fine (April 1, 2026)
- PennDOT — Distracted Driving Laws Fact Sheet
Independent study resource. Road to Permit is not affiliated with or endorsed by any DMV, DPS, FLHSMV or other government agency. Official state sources control if information changes.