(Des Moines) Iowa’s Hands-Free Driving Law went into effect with a warning period on July 1, 2025, and citations began being issued by law enforcement on January 1, 2026. Since January 1, 2026, over 2,400 citations and over 1,900 warnings have been issued. The law prohibits using electronic devices beyond a single touch while driving unless they are in hands-free mode. The passage of this law was a key factor in the historic low number of traffic fatalities recorded in 2025.
April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month, and it’s time to turn awareness into action. Iowa State Patrol Trooper and District #4 Public Information Officer Shelby McCreedy says the goal of this project is to educate all drivers, young and experienced, about the importance of driving distraction-free and to help drivers comply with the law going forward.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau (GTSB) is partnering with the Central Iowa Traffic Safety Task Force (CITSTF) and law enforcement across the state from April 6-10 to enforce Iowa’s Hands-Free Driving Law.
Trooper McCreedy says that by enforcing this law and bringing awareness to the dangers of distracted driving.
There are several ways to go hands-free. Some of the options include voice commands, speakerphone, AUX cords, Bluetooth, or phone mounts.
The Governor’s Traffic Safety Bureau works with city, county, state, and local organizations to develop and implement strategies to reduce deaths and injuries on Iowa roads through federally funded grants.
