Ohio drivers will have to put their cell phones down and keep their hands on the wheel starting Friday, Aug. 31. That day, a texting ban will take effect, granting drivers a six-month warning period before tickets will officially be issued.

“It is a state-wide ban, but the warning period will let people get used to the regulations,” said Brian Newbacher, director of public affairs for AAA East Central.

The bill, signed by Gov. John Kasich, makes texting while driving or talking on a cell phone while driving a primary offense for drivers 18 years old and younger. For motorists 19 years old and older, only texting while driving will be banned.

Talking on a cell phone while driving for those 19 years old and older will still be legal, “although we don’t recommend it,” Newbacher said.

Fines will be no more than $150, according to the AAA Foundation.

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