Canada is rolling out a major new traffic law — one that will affect every driver in the country.
Starting July 1, 2025, using handheld devices while driving will be banned nationwide. That means no more texting, no more scrolling, and no more holding your phone behind the wheel — no matter where in Canada you are.
This is part of a new federal law aiming to reduce the growing number of collisions caused by distracted driving.
What Does the New Law Say?
Under the updated law, it will be illegal to hold or use any handheld electronic device while operating a vehicle. This includes:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- GPS devices (unless mounted)
- Gaming devices
- Laptops
The only legal option? Hands-free systems that are properly mounted and voice-activated.
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Why Is This Happening?
Distracted driving is now a leading cause of crashes in Canada. According to Transport Canada, more than 1 in 5 road deaths in 2024 involved some form of distraction behind the wheel.
A recent report from Exeter Today shows that 82 people in Ontario alone died due to distracted driving last year — more than from impaired driving.
This law follows years of public safety campaigns urging people to “Put the phone down”. Now, it’s not just a suggestion — it’s the law.
What’s Allowed vs. What’s Not
| Legal | Illegal |
|---|---|
| Voice-activated calling | Holding your phone while driving |
| GPS mounted on dash | Touching or typing on a device |
| Bluetooth audio systems | Texting, emailing, or scrolling |
| Pre-programmed music or directions | Watching videos or using apps while driving |
What Are the Penalties?
The penalties under the new law are tougher than ever:
- First offence:
- Fine of $600 to $950
- 4 to 5 demerit points
- Repeat offence:
- Fine up to $2,000+
- License suspension (from 3 to 7 days)
- Possible insurance rate hikes
Commercial truck drivers face even stricter rules. Trucks over 11,000 kg must have speed limiters installed and active. Violations can lead to fines up to $10,000.
What You Can Do Now
To prepare for the change:
- Mount your phone or GPS: Use a dash or windshield holder.
- Use Bluetooth or voice commands: No hand-touching!
- Set your music or maps before you drive.
- Avoid multitasking: No eating, grooming, or reading while driving.
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Why It Matters
This isn’t just a rule change. It’s a mindset shift.
With this move, Canada joins countries like Australia, the UK, and parts of Europe where strict distracted driving bans have already saved thousands of lives.
As Expediters Online notes, provinces like B.C. and Ontario already had tough penalties — but this national standard means there are no more grey areas.
Final Thoughts
The new handheld device ban is a clear message from Canadian lawmakers: distraction is not worth a life.
Whether you’re commuting in Toronto, road-tripping through Alberta, or delivering goods across provinces — this law applies to you. The solution is simple: Go hands-free. Stay focused. Arrive safe.
Reminder: The ban comes into effect nationwide on July 1, 2025.
