Kentucky Truck Driver Phone Law
The federal hand-held ban (49 CFR 392.82) binds you in Kentucky even though the state does not. Kentucky bans only texting for the public (KRS 189.292, primary enforcement). Adults can legally hold and talk, but you can't. A hand-held call that's fine for the four-wheeler beside you is still a federal violation for you, citable at a roadside inspection and scored on your CSA record. The state texting fine is $25 first, $50 after, plus 3 points.
The federal ban applies here first
Federal law rides with your CDL in every state. FMCSA 49 CFR 392.82 bans all hand-held phone use while driving a CMV: no holding it to talk, no dialing more than a single button, no reaching for the phone out of your belted seat. A separate rule (49 CFR 392.80) bans texting and manual data entry. Only hands-free counts as compliant (mounted or in close reach, one-touch or voice, no reaching), and the only exception is calling 911. "Driving" includes sitting at a red light or stuck in traffic; you are clear only once fully off the road and stopped. Penalties run up to $2,750 for the driver and $11,000 for the carrier. It is a CSA serious violation: two convictions in any 3-year period disqualify your CDL for 60 days, three or more for 120 days (49 CFR 383.51).
Kentucky’s rule for all drivers
The federal hand-held ban (49 CFR 392.82) binds you in Kentucky even though the state does not. Kentucky bans only texting for the public (KRS 189.292, primary enforcement). Adults can legally hold and talk, but you can't. A hand-held call that's fine for the four-wheeler beside you is still a federal violation for you, citable at a roadside inspection and scored on your CSA record. The state texting fine is $25 first, $50 after, plus 3 points.
- Hand-held: Texting ban only
- Texting: Texting banned for all drivers (KRS 189.292); handheld calls remain legal for adults. Primary enforcement. No statewide hands-free law — the 'Phone-Down Kentucky Act' (SB 28) passed the Senate 31–7 in January 2026 but died in the House Transportation Committee when the session ended, so it did not become law.
- Fine: $25 first offense, $50 each subsequent offense, plus 3 points on your driving record. Drivers under 18 are barred from all phone use while driving.
- Points: State assesses 3 points for a texting conviction; handheld calls draw no state penalty for adults. Federal CMV bite: holding your phone is still a CSA serious violation despite Kentucky's weaker rule, and two in 3 years cost your CDL 60 days.
Kentucky Truck Phone Law FAQ
Can truck drivers use a phone in Kentucky?
What is the phone fine in Kentucky?
Is texting while driving illegal in Kentucky?
Reference information for planning, not legal advice. Traffic laws change and this can be out of date, so always confirm the current statute and obey posted signs before you rely on it. Last reviewed July 2026. Source: https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/law/statutes/statute.aspx?id=39750. See our Terms & Disclaimer.
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