The base fine for VC 23123 (a) first offense is $20. For second and subsequent offenses, the fine is $50. But remember—the actual amount you’ll pay once assessments are added will be significantly more than the base fine. The total for a first violation will likely exceed $150, and a second or subsequent offense can cost over $250.

California outlaws handheld cellphones while driving. The only time you’re allowed to use a handheld cellphone while driving in California is to make an emergency call to a law enforcement agency or to call a medical provider, the fire department, or another emergency service agency. Authorized emergency vehicle drivers and those operating vehicles on private property can also use handheld cell phones.

California law also prohibits texting while driving for all drivers in the state. Texting and driving is only allowed for emergency service professionals operating authorized emergency vehicles, drivers who are turning on or off a GPS, and drivers who are using a manufacturer-installed system in the vehicle.