Iowa police to start citing drivers for cell phone use January 1

Beginning January 1, police in Iowa will begin writing citations for drivers who are operating their phones while driving. Since July 2025, they have been giving warnings. You cannot text, dial a phone number, or use GPS while driving, at a red light, or at a stop sign. If law enforcement sees you with a phone in your hand, they will write a ticket. The Iowa State Patrol recommend pulling over into a parking lot or getting off the roadway if  you have to use your phone.