Does California’s No Touch Cell Phone Law Prohibit Using a GPS While Driving?

GPS technology has become a necessity for many people, but it can be one of the most distracting activities for drivers. A 2017 AAA study found that programming GPS navigation took an average of 40 seconds—the most distracting task involving in-vehicle technology, more so than texting.

Distracted driving (which includes programming navigation systems) was responsible for 3,275 deaths in 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

In light of the dangers of distracted driving, most states, including California, have laws that prohibit cell phone use and text messaging and using other electronic devices while driving.

Using a GPS Device While Driving

California doesn't specifically ban GPS devices in its distracted driving law. However, California's "No Touch" law states that a person shall not drive a motor vehicle while "holding and operating" a wireless phone or electronic wireless communications device unless it's a voice-operated and hands-free device. A person may also use a device that's a manufacturer-installed system in the vehicle. (Cal. Veh. Code § 23123.5 (2025).)

Although the statute doesn't specifically mention GPS devices, the California Court of Appeal has made it clear that the law includes using a handheld GPS device while driving. In 2025, the court held that the "No Touch" law includes holding a phone for any purpose while driving, including holding a phone to view a GPS navigation app. (People v. Porter, 111 Cal. App. 5th 927 (2025).)

There is an exception to the hands-free rule. A driver may use a hand to operate a device if:

• activating or deactivating the device with a single swipe or tap of the driver's finger, and
• the device is mounted on the windshield (as described below) or is part of (or attached to) the vehicle's dashboard or center console.

(Cal. Veh. Code § 23123.5 (2025).)

What Are the Mounting Requirements for a GPS Device?

California allows a GPS device to be mounted in:

• a seven-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield farthest from the driver, or
• a five-inch square in the lower corner of the windshield nearest to the driver.

The GPS device must not be in the way of airbags and may only be used for door-to-door navigation. (Cal. Veh. Code § 26708 (2025).)

As noted above, a GPS device may also be part of "manufacturer-installed systems that are embedded in the vehicle."

What Are the Penalties for Illegally Using GPS?

Using a GPS that doesn't comply with the above law is an infraction. It is punishable by a $20 fine for a first offense and a $50 fine for every subsequent offense. After adding fees and assessments, the total cost of a violation will be anywhere from $150 to more than $250. (Cal. Veh. Code § 23123.5 (2025).)

Best Practices for Driving With a GPS Device

Even if your GPS is legal to use, it's generally a good idea to let a passenger manage it while you're driving. Because even a voice-operated GPS can be distracting, solo drivers should consider pulling over—when it's safe and legal to do so—to enter or change their destination.