(1) Driving school instructors must not use personal electronic devices, hands-free or otherwise, that distract from or interfere with the behind the wheel or classroom instruction task. This includes the use of any communications devices that result in verbal or written text responses while conducting instruction. While supervising the operation of a vehicle, instructors are additionally prohibited from sending or receiving messages with these devices. Ring volumes for these devices, or any phone in proximity, are to be silenced so as not to interfere in any way with the student learning or interacting with the instructor.

(2) This section does not apply to voice activated GPS devices or classroom devices that are being used as part of an approved curriculum. This section also does not preclude the use of devices to report illegal activity, summon medical or other emergency help, or prevent injury to a person or property, as permitted under RCW 46.61.672.

(3) An unreasonable risk associated with a failure to obey this section is a violation of RCW 18.235.130(4).

(4) This section does not prohibit the use of wireless communication devices during instruction if the use is to access a virtual classroom or in the case of an emergency.