Most state laws focus on texting or cell phone usage only, and Maryland is no exception. Under MD Transportation Code § 21-1124 (2019), “An individual who is under the age of 18 years may not use a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle.” In other words, no minor can use a cellphone while driving – period. It doesn’t matter if the driver is “hands free” or not; Maryland does not allow anyone under the age of 18 to use a phone while driving. Under § 21-1124.1, “an individual may not use a text messaging device to write, send, or read a text message or an electronic message while operating a motor vehicle in the travel portion of the roadway.” The “no texting” rules applies to drivers of any age, with any kind of license. However, the rule does NOT apply to using GPS, or texting an emergency call to 9-1-1. In other words, you can legally type GPS directions into your phone (even though it is unsafe to do so while driving), and in the event of an emergency, you can text for help. Under § 21-1124.2, the Communications Traffic Safety Act, adult drivers cannot use a handheld device, though legally they may answer, start, or end a call. Hands-free devices are legal for adults. There are, of course, exceptions to every rule. An adult may use a handheld device to call for emergency services of any kind, and the law “does not apply to certain law enforcement and emergency personnel, or to certain commercial operators using ‘push-to-talk’ technology.”