Many drivers enjoy listening to music, podcasts or audiobooks using AirPods or other wireless earbuds while on the road. But in Georgia, not all headphone use behind the wheel is allowed. Understanding Georgia’s laws—especially the Hands‑Free Georgia Act—is essential to avoid tickets, points on your license, or worse, endangering yourself and others.
Georgia’s Hands‑Free Law: A Quick Overview
Enacted on July 1, 2018, Georgia’s Hands‑Free Georgia Act (House Bill 673) prohibits drivers from physically holding or supporting a cellphone while driving. For phone calls, only hands‑free methods are allowed—such as speakerphone, in-vehicle Bluetooth, Apple Watch, or a single wireless earpiece/earbud.
Crucially:
- Wearing one earbud (like a single AirPod) is legal—but only for making or receiving phone calls.
- Wearing two AirPods or a stereo headset to listen to music, podcasts or any audio without the use of a phone call violates the law .
What the Code Says
Georgia Code (O.C.G.A § 40‑6‑250) states:
“No person shall operate a motor vehicle while wearing a headset or headphone which would impair such person’s ability to hear… provided, however, that a person may wear a headset or headphone for communication purposes.”
In simple terms: one earpiece for calls is fine; blocking both ears, or using either for entertainment, is not.
Why Only One Earbud—and Only for Calls?
The goal behind the “one ear open” rule is safety:
Penalties for Violating the Headphone Rule
Georgia enforces headphone violations under the hands‑free law:
| Offense | Fine | License Points |
|---|---|---|
| First (within 24 months) | $50 | 1 point |
| Second | $100 | 2 points |
| Third or later | $150 | 3 points |
Additionally, causing an accident while wearing illegal headphones may lead to restitution, more fines, or more points.
Are There Exceptions?
Yes. The law allows exceptions when:
- Making emergency calls about crashes, crimes, medical issues, or hazardous road conditions.
- First responders and utility workers using devices while on duty.
- The vehicle is legally parked (stopped at a red light does not count as parked.
However, using headphones for music or entertainment—even if stationary at a light—is still not allowed. Your car must be off and legally parked.
Misconceptions & Clarifications
- “I can listen to music through AirPods in one ear, right?”
No—unless it’s an earbud used strictly for a phone call or voice-based navigation. Any entertainment audio is not permitted. - “Can I use my phone via speaker or built‑in car Bluetooth?”
Absolutely. The law allows hands‑free phone use, GPS, and music playback through the vehicle’s audio system—but you mustn’t touch your phone while driving. - “Can I touch my phone at a red light?”
No. Even stopped at lights or signs, touching your phone is illegal unless the car is parked off-road.
National Comparison
Georgia falls in line with several states restricting headphone use to one ear and only for calls. States like Florida, Pennsylvania, and Rhode Island have similar rules, while others (e.g., California, Alaska) ban any headphone use entirely.
Why This Matters
- Public safety: Distracted driving is a leading cause of car accidents. Limiting phone use and headphone distraction reduces risk.
- Avoiding penalties: Multiple offenses can affect your insurance and lead to license suspension.
- Clearer hearing: Emergency sounds and honks can save lives—don’t block them.
Best Practices for Using AirPods in Your Car
- Use only one AirPod—and only for phone calls.
- Prefer car-installed Bluetooth or speakerphone for calls and audio.
- Always mount or mount your phone before driving if you need navigation or audio control.
- Stay alert: keep one ear free and keep your eyes on the road.
- Park before adjusting any media or playlist on your device.
Conclusion
Driving with AirPods in Georgia requires caution and clarity. Stick to one earbud only for calls, use your car’s system for everything else, and never touch your phone while driving—even at a stop. These rules aren’t just legal—they’re about keeping roads safe and preventing avoidable accidents.