Section 23123.
Cal. Vehicle Code - VEH § 23123.
in effect(a)
A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone unless that telephone is specifically designed and configured to allow hands-free listening and talking, and is used in that manner while driving.
(b)
A violation of this section is an infraction punishable by a base fine of twenty dollars ($20) for a first offense and fifty dollars ($50) for each subsequent offense.
(c)
This section does not apply to a person using a wireless telephone for emergency purposes, including, but not limited to, an emergency call to a law enforcement agency, health care provider, fire department, or other emergency services agency or entity.
(d)
This section does not apply to an emergency services professional using a wireless telephone while operating an authorized emergency vehicle, as defined in Section 165, in the course and scope of his or her duties.
(e)
This section does not apply to a person driving a schoolbus or transit vehicle that is subject to Section 23125.
(f)
This section does not apply to a person while driving a motor vehicle on private property.
(g)
This section shall become operative on July 1, 2011.
References
referencesCal. Vehicle Code - VEH § 165.
referencesCal. Vehicle Code - VEH § 23125.
Source: CA Legislative Counsel Bulk DataURL: https://downloads.leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/pubinfo_2025.zipFetched: 6/27/2026