How to Fight a Distracted Driving Ticket in Indiana
If you got a distracted driving ticket in Indiana, you can usually pay it, contest it in court, or pursue a dismissal/mitigation option. Using a telecommunications device while driving is a Class C infraction.
How to fight a distracted driving ticket in Indiana, step by step
Decide how to plead
Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the distracted driving charge in Indiana 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
Using a telecommunications device while driving is a Class C infraction.
Show up prepared
Arrive early, dress neatly, and bring your documents plus a short, factual statement of your side.
Prepare for your Indiana 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 →Indiana Distracted Driving ticket — frequently asked questions
Is Indiana a hands-free state?
Indiana enacted IC 9-21-8-59 (effective July 1, 2020) prohibiting drivers from holding or using a telecommunications device while operating a moving motor vehicle. Drivers age 21 and older may use the device only with hands-free or voice-operated technology. Source: IC 9-21-8-59.
What is prohibited under Indiana's distracted driving law?
Under IC 9-21-8-59, a driver may not hold or use a telecommunications device (smartphone, cell phone, etc.) while operating a moving motor vehicle. This includes talking, texting, browsing, or any other use while holding the device. The exception is hands-free or voice-operated technology for drivers 21 and older.
What are the fines for using a phone while driving in Indiana?
Using a telecommunications device while driving is a Class C infraction. Under IC 34-28-5-4: paying before appearance date caps the judgment at $35.50; maximum judgment ranges up to $500 based on prior record. Court costs of $70 are added. The specific amount for a first offense with no prior moving violations is up to $35.50 plus court costs — verify the total at your local court.
Can I use GPS while driving in Indiana?
Using a GPS navigation app via hands-free (mounted device, voice commands) is broadly permitted under IC 9-21-8-59 for drivers 21 and older. Manually typing or holding the device while driving is prohibited.
Are there stricter rules for drivers under 21 in Indiana?
Drivers under age 21 face stricter rules under IC 9-21-8-59 — they may not use ANY telecommunications device while driving, including hands-free or Bluetooth technology. There is no hands-free exception for drivers under 21.
Do distracted driving tickets add points in Indiana?
Using a telecommunications device while driving adds 4 points to your Indiana driving record. Points are active for 2 years. Source: in.gov/bmv.
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.