Is it illegal in GA to wear headphones or AirPods while driving? What the law says
Need to join a meeting for work or want to listen to your favorite song that isn’t on the radio? Well, before you put your earbuds in, let’s check to see if that’s even legal in Georgia.
Is it legal to wear headphones or earbuds while driving in GA?
Well, no, not really. But there are some exceptions. Here’s what to know:
“No person shall operate a motor vehicle while wearing a headset or headphone which would impair such a person’s ability to hear.”
Georgia’s hands-free law became effective in 2018 and this law makes it illegal to use a hand-held cell phone while driving. The law says that drivers can communicate on the phone while driving if they have the call on speakerphone, use an earpiece, wireless headphone, in-vehicle hands-free audio system or an electronic watch. So, there are some exceptions to the original law:
According to the Georgia Department of Public Safety: “Headsets and earpieces can only be worn for communication purposes and not for listening to music or other entertainment.” Other exceptions include:
- Reporting a traffic crash, medical emergency, fire, criminal activity or hazardous road conditions.
- An employee or contractor of a utility service provider acting within the scope of their employment while responding to a utility emergency.
- A first responder (law enforcement, fire, EMS) during the performance of their official duties.
- When in a lawfully parked vehicle. However, this does not include vehicles stopped at red lights or stop signs.
If you are caught using headphones for other reasons, the penalties include:
- 1st conviction - 1 point and fine not more than $50.00
- 2nd conviction - 2 points and fine not more than $100.00
- 3rd or more convictions - 3 points and fine nor more than $150.00
What do you think of this law? Let me know in the comments or email me at cmadden@mcclatchy.com
