What is the no hands law in Florida?
Asked by: Theo Labadie | Last update: January 29, 2026Score: 4.1/5 (34 votes)
Florida's "no hands" law prohibits holding a wireless device for any reason (calling, texting, GPS) while driving, though it's primarily enforced in school and work zones with current penalties of fines and license points, with stronger laws potentially making it a statewide ban on handheld use, not just texting, for all driving situations. The existing law bans handheld texting statewide and handheld phone use in school/work zones; new legislation aims to expand the ban on handheld device use to all roads for all activities, making it a true hands-free state, according to a source from the Florida House of Representatives and Wilkes & Mee.
What is the new no touch law in Florida?
Senate Bill 1152, filed ahead of the upcoming legislative session, would make it illegal for drivers to hold a phone while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers could still use GPS, make phone calls, or use navigation apps, but only through hands-free technology such as Bluetooth or built-in vehicle systems.
Can you refuse to show ID to police in Florida?
In Florida, you generally must provide your identification if lawfully detained by police on reasonable suspicion of a crime or during a traffic stop (driver's license), but you can refuse during a casual, consensual encounter and can remain silent, though refusing to identify during a lawful stop can lead to charges like resisting an officer. You don't have to consent to searches, and if you're a passenger in a vehicle, identification might still be requested for officer safety, with refusal potentially escalating the situation.
Can you hold your phone in Florida?
The Wireless Communications While Driving Law, section 316.305, Florida Statutes, took effect on July 1, 2019. This law requires drivers to put their phones down and focus on driving. What is the Wireless Communications While Driving Law?
What is the new law in Florida September 2025?
New Florida laws effective September/October 2025 include landlord flood risk disclosures, increased penalties for animal abandonment (Trooper's Law), stricter DUI/fleeing law enforcement penalties, mandatory minimums for repeat sex offenders, age verification for adult websites, and condo association transparency rules. Key changes also involve social media rules for minors (HB 3) and updates to voter registration, alongside significant updates to real estate development rules (SB 180) post-emergency.
Florida to consider hands-free driving law
Why are people leaving Florida in 2025?
People are leaving Florida in 2025 primarily due to escalating costs (housing, insurance, utilities), increased frequency of severe weather (hurricanes), overcrowding leading to traffic and strained infrastructure, and a perceived mismatch between wages in service/tourism jobs and the high cost of living, with some leaving due to political climate or better opportunities elsewhere, despite its famed tax benefits and climate. While still attracting movers, Florida's appeal as a destination has declined, with cities like Miami and Tampa seeing more people move out than in.
Do I need a license to carry a firearm in Florida?
Answer: No. On July 1, 2023, House BIll 543, authorizing the permitless concealed carry of weapons and firearms by those who are eligible, became a law in the state of Florida.
Can I talk on my cell phone while driving in Florida?
Yes, it is illegal to text and drive in Florida, and there are strict laws against using handheld devices for any reason in school and construction zones; while talking on a handheld phone is generally allowed elsewhere (with exceptions), new legislation is pushing to ban all handheld use, making hands-free operation the required standard for most functions, with fines and points for violations.
What is the 90.408 rule in Florida?
Florida Statute 90.408 makes evidence of offers to compromise disputed claims, and statements made during those negotiations, generally inadmissible to prove liability or the claim's value, encouraging settlement by preventing parties from being penalized for trying to resolve disputes out of court, though such evidence can be admitted for other relevant purposes, like proving a fact related to ownership or credibility, not liability.
Did they pass the 65% law in Florida?
No. This remains a nefarious myth / urban legend / wishful thinking. As of today, everyone in FL still must serve a minimum of 85% of their sentence, period.
What to say when a cop asks you where you are going?
You have the right to remain silent. For example, you do not have to answer any questions about where you are going, where you are traveling from, what you are doing, or where you live. If you wish to exercise your right to remain silent, say so out loud.
What is a Terry stop in Florida?
A Terry stop is defined as “a brief, temporary involuntary detention of a person suspected of being involved in criminal activity for the purpose of investigating the potential criminal violation.
What not to say to a cop when pulled over?
Don't lie. Keep your answers short and simple. The officer will ask “Do you know why I stopped you?” The correct answer is “No.” Don't try to argue or make your case to the officer.
Do you have to roll your window down for police in FL?
Not rolling down your window is not a violation of the statute; however, it can lead to other charges. For example, you could face other charges like resisting an officer without violence or obstruction of justice. These charges fall under Florida Statute 843.02.
What are the five new laws in Florida?
This is what you should know about the new laws in effect in Florida.
- SB 1808 - Faster medical refunds. ...
- HB 255 - "Dexter's Law," registering animal abuse. ...
- SB 158 - No more copayment for breast examinations. ...
- HB 655 - Pet insurance regulation. ...
- SB 944 - Reducing overpayment claims for psychologists.
Is it illegal to walk around shirtless in Florida?
Indecent exposure in Florida is a first-degree misdemeanor. If convicted, you could face the following penalties: Up to one year in jail.
What is the 33 day rule in Florida?
The "33-day rule" in Florida refers to Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.134, which states that if a person is arrested for a felony and held in jail, the state generally has 30 days to file formal charges, or the person must be released by the 33rd day (unless the state shows good cause for an extension to the 40th day). This rule ensures defendants aren't held indefinitely without charges, requiring either charges or release from custody within a set timeframe, with extensions possible for good cause.
What is the 85% rule in Florida?
Florida's "85% Rule" is a truth-in-sentencing law requiring most inmates to serve a minimum of 85% of their imposed sentence before eligibility for release, even with good behavior credits ("gain time"), under the S.T.O.P. Act (Stop Turning Out Prisoners Act) passed in 1995, limiting early release for many offenses and increasing incarceration time.
What is the 7 year divorce rule in Florida?
What is the 7-Year Rule? The 7-year rule in Florida is used as a reference point by courts to classify marriages based on their duration. Marriages lasting seven years or more are considered long marriages, whereas those shorter than seven years fall under the short marriage category.
Is it illegal to do your makeup while driving in Florida?
While you shouldn't be doing it, it is not illegal to apply makeup while driving in Florida. However, this is one of the most dangerous forms of distracted driving, and it could cause you to become a hazard or commit another traffic infraction such as running a stoplight.
What is the new traffic law in Florida 2025?
Florida's “no‑wake law” officially became active on July 1, 2025. It outlaws driving fast enough through flooded streets to generate large wakes that splash onto homes, yards, sidewalks, or other property. The measure was tucked into Senate Bill 462, a bipartisan transportation package signed by Governor DeSantis.
What is the new texting law in Florida?
The bill signed by Governor DeSantis made texting while driving a primary offense, thereby allowing law enforcement officers to pull motorists over and issue a citation solely for texting (including messaging, emailing, and other forms of typing on a mobile device) behind the wheel.
Can you carry a gun in your pocket without a holster in Florida?
Yes, in Florida, you can carry a handgun in your pocket without a holster if you are eligible for permitless concealed carry (meeting age/eligibility criteria), but it must remain concealed (hidden from ordinary sight); however, it's strongly advised to use a proper holster for safety to prevent accidental discharge, as carrying it loosely can be dangerous and may lead to legal issues if handled carelessly or displayed threateningly.
Who can not own a gun in Florida?
Florida law prohibits firearm ownership for certain individuals. 🚫 You CANNOT own or possess a gun if: You have a felony conviction (unless your civil rights have been restored) You have been convicted of domestic violence.
How much does a FL concealed carry permit cost?
The Department of Agriculture will review the application, complete the background check and upon approval the concealed weapon license will be mailed to the applicant. In most cases the cost is $119.00.