Chapter 1 · Lesson 12 of 21
Phone use and school-related suspension
3 min read · Obtaining a New Credential
Explanation
A probationary driver under 21 may not use any form of telecommunications device while driving—not even hands-free—except to make a 911 emergency call.
The BMV must suspend a juvenile’s driving privileges after school notification for the listed conditions: expulsion or exclusion, a second or later suspension in one school year, habitual truancy, or withdrawal from school.
Example
An under-21 probationary driver leaves the phone unused, including hands-free calls. In an emergency, the driver may use it to call 911.
Common mistake
Applying the adult hands-free rule to an under-21 probationary driver. This stricter rule allows only the 911 exception.
What the manual says
operating a motor vehicle while using any form of telecommunications device
unless the device is being used to make a 911 emergency call.
Sources
- Manual p. 10
“operating a motor vehicle while using any form of telecommunications device”
- Manual p. 10
“unless the device is being used to make a 911 emergency call.”
- Manual p. 10
“Indiana law requires the BMV to suspend the driving privileges of a juvenile upon notification from the juvenile's school administrator or principal”
- Manual p. 11
“The juvenile has been determined to be a habitual truant”
Check your understanding
Question 1 of 3