How to Fight a Distracted Driving Ticket in Illinois
If you got a distracted driving ticket in Illinois, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Illinois distracted driving fines under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 escalate by offense: 1st offense = $75; 2nd offense = $100; 3rd offense = $125; 4th and subsequent = $150.
How to fight a distracted driving ticket in Illinois, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the distracted driving charge in Illinois and review the evidence against you.
Request the evidence in your case
Ask the court for the officer's notes and any photos, device records, or calibration logs relied on to issue your distracted driving citation — you have a right to review what the case against you is built on.
Know exactly what you're contesting
Illinois distracted driving fines under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 escalate by offense: 1st offense = $75; 2nd offense = $100; 3rd offense = $125; 4th and subsequent = $150.
Show up prepared
Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Illinois court date — free
Get a guided prep chat for your exact violation, then a court-ready mock script you can rehearse.
Start my free court prep →Illinois Distracted Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
What is the fine for distracted driving in Illinois?
Illinois distracted driving fines under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 escalate by offense: 1st offense = $75; 2nd offense = $100; 3rd offense = $125; 4th and subsequent = $150. These are base fines — court costs and assessments are added. Verify current amounts with your circuit clerk.
Does distracted driving add points to my record?
Yes. An officer-issued distracted driving conviction under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 adds 20 points. Under-19 violations under 625 ILCS 5/12-610.1 add 10 points. Court Supervision avoids the conviction and the points.
Is hands-free required in Illinois?
Yes. 625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 (effective January 1, 2019) prohibits using any electronic communication device while driving except in hands-free mode. This means you cannot hold your phone even to glance at it — the device must be operated entirely without hand-holding while the vehicle is in motion.
Are there different rules for drivers under 19?
Yes — stricter rules. 625 ILCS 5/12-610.1 prohibits drivers under 19 from using ANY wireless telephone or electronic communication device while driving, even in hands-free mode (with very limited exceptions). The fine structure is different and points assessed are 10 instead of 20. This is a total ban, not merely a hands-free requirement.
Can I use my phone at a red light in Illinois?
No. Illinois law prohibits using a handheld electronic communication device while operating a motor vehicle — this includes being stopped at a red light. The vehicle must be in park (such as pulled completely off the road) for handheld use to be lawful.
Can I use my phone for navigation in Illinois?
Yes, but only in hands-free mode. You may mount your phone and use GPS navigation via voice commands or a single touch to activate. You may not hold the phone or manually type an address while driving.
Can I get Court Supervision for distracted driving?
Court Supervision is generally available for distracted driving violations and is the preferred outcome — it prevents the conviction, the 20 points, and insurance impact. Request it at your court date rather than paying the fine online.
What counts as 'electronic communication device' in Illinois?
625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 defines it broadly to include cell phones, smartphones, tablets, PDAs, and similar devices capable of electronic communication. GPS-only devices (like a standalone Garmin) are generally not covered, but a phone used for GPS while handheld is covered.
Does Illinois have a primary or secondary distracted driving law?
Illinois has a primary enforcement law — an officer can stop and ticket you solely for using a handheld electronic device while driving, without needing any other traffic violation as a basis for the stop.
What if I was using my phone for an emergency?
625 ILCS 5/12-610.2 includes an exception for reporting an emergency to law enforcement or emergency services. If you were calling 911 or emergency services because of an immediate threat to life, that is a statutory defense. Document the emergency call records as evidence.
Zigpon is an educational self-help guide, not a law firm — this is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every case is different; verify details with your court or a licensed attorney before acting.