MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

True or False: A driver using a GPS on a cell phone is committing a civil infraction if the GPS is not mounted to the vehicle.

1. True

2. False

The correct answer is: False

Using a GPS on a cell phone that is not mounted to the vehicle does not automatically constitute a civil infraction. The legality typically hinges on whether the driver is using the device in a way that distracts from safe driving. Many jurisdictions allow drivers to use GPS devices, including those on cell phones, as long as they do not compromise their ability to control the vehicle. If a driver is holding the phone in their hand while attempting to view the GPS or enter information, that scenario might lead to a distraction and could potentially lead to other violations, such as distracted driving laws. However, simply having an unmounted GPS device does not, in itself, imply a violation of the law. Therefore, the answer is false, as the mere act of using a GPS on a cell phone that is not secured does not constitute a civil infraction unless it leads to distracted driving or violates specific local regulations.