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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/cdl-handheld-phone-prohibited

When may a CMV driver use a hand-held mobile telephone while driving?

Only to reach police or emergency services.

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  1. For short calls under two minutes
  2. Only to reach police or emergency services ✔
  3. On rural roads only

Why: Federal rules ban holding a phone while driving a CMV, even stopped in traffic. The one exception is contacting police or other emergency services.

Huh, didn't know that: If you must take a call, pull off the road and stop first.

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Why did the trucker put the phone away? It was too handy.
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References

Answer: Only to reach police or emergency services. Federal rules ban holding a phone while driving a CMV, even stopped in traffic. The one exception is contacting police or other emergency services.

  1. 49 CFR 392.82 (eCFR) www.ecfr.gov/current/title-49/section-392.82
    Using a hand-held mobile telephone is permissible by drivers of a CMV when necessary to communicate with law enforcement officials or other emergency services.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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