As of January 1st, 2021 unless a motor vehicle is parked or stopped it is illegal in Arizona to talk or text on a cellphone while holding or support a device with your body unless the device is in a hands-free mode. That includes you can’t have the phone on your lap.
Arizona Revised Statute 28-914
First violation: $75 – $149 fine
Second or subsequent violation: $150 – $250 fine
The phone can be used if it is mounted on the dashboard or connect through a Bluetooth device.
Now your rights:
- If you are stopped for an alleged violation the peace officer is not authorized to take possession of or otherwise inspect a portable wireless communication device in the possession of the operator unless otherwise authorized by law.
- Except as provided in section 28-3312, a department or agency of this state may not consider a violation of this section for the purpose of determining whether the person’s driver’s license should be suspended or revoked.