Transportation Code · §545.4251

Electronic Messaging While Driving

Electronic Messaging While Driving (§545.4251): key points and worked practice questions for Texas peace officer exam preparation.

Key points

  • Operating motor vehicle
  • Using a wireless communication device to read/write/send electronic message

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Worked examples

Worked example 1

Operating a motor vehicle while using a wireless communication device for electronic messaging (texting and driving) under Tex. Transp. Code §545.4251:

  1. Is permitted while driving
  2. Is prohibited statewide; first offense is a Class C misdemeanor with a fine up to $99 (subsequent up to $200), with statutory exceptions for stopped vehicles, hands-free, emergency reports, and GPS use Correct
  3. Is only prohibited in school zones
  4. Is a felony
Why: Statewide texting-while-driving ban. Class C misdemeanor; certain limited exceptions (stopped, hands-free, emergency reporting, GPS). Many cities have stricter ordinances (full handheld bans).
Statute: Tex. Transp. Code §545.4251

Statutory definitions for this topic

Texting while driving (§545.4251) Tex. Transp. Code §545.4251
Statewide prohibition on operating a motor vehicle while using a wireless communication device for electronic messaging. Class C misdemeanor; first offense up to $99 / subsequent up to $200. Limited exceptions for stopped, hands-free, emergency, GPS.