Vehicles: electronic wireless communication devices: prohibitions.

(1) Existing law requires the Department of Motor Vehicles to examine applicants for specific driver's licenses and requires the department to administer a written test of those persons seeking driver's licenses or certificates of renewal. This bill, commencing July 1, 2015, would require the department to include at least one question in each test of an applicant's knowledge and understanding of the provisions of the Vehicle Code to verify that the applicant has read and understands the distractions and dangers associated with handheld cellular phone use and text messaging while operating a motor vehicle. (2) Existing law establishes that specified convictions and violations under the Vehicle Code and traffic-related incidents count as points against a driver's record for purposes of suspension or revocation of the privilege to drive. Under existing law, it is an infraction for a person to drive a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone, or an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication, unless the telephone or electronic wireless communications device is designed and configured to allow voice-operated and hands-free operation, and is used in that manner while driving, except as otherwise provided. A person under 18 years of age is prohibited from driving a motor vehicle while using a wireless telephone or an electronic wireless communications device, even if equipped with a hands-free device. A violation point is not given for a violation of these provisions. This bill, commencing July 1, 2015, would assess a violation point for a conviction of these violations.