Texting and driving no longer a big no-no, thanks to Tesla

Elon Musk’s car company has released a new software update that may tempt drivers to do more than just pay attention to the road.

For years, drivers have been warned to avoid any actions that may divert their attention from the road. Texting, applying makeup, drinking, or eating could increase the chance of causing an accident.

However, it appears that this is about to change for Tesla drivers.

X account @Teslaconomics asked whether it’s possible to text and drive on FSD v14.2.1, referring to Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) (FSD) software system update.

The post suggests that the latest system update now allows users to text and drive, despite this being considered an illegal action in most US states.

Musk replied to the user’s question by stating, “Depending on the context of surrounding traffic, yes,” confirming that users can text and drive.

Wait… am I able to text and drive on FSD v14.2.1??? I’ve been on my phone for an extended period of time…

undefined Teslaconomics (@Teslaconomics) December 4, 2025

While all 49 states in the US have different types of laws related to driving, only Montana appears to have no laws that prohibit users from using devices while driving.

Drivers who would like to rely on this feature should note that FSD is considered a driver-assistance system and doesn’t ensure full vehicle autonomy.

Full Self-Driving (Supervised) is a driver-assistance system that allows the car to control steering, acceleration, braking, and lane changing instead of a driver, but still requires their attention and supervision.

This means that drivers still have to pay attention to what is going on the road and be ready to take over control.

In their post, the X user shared that they’ve been on their phone “for an extended period of time,” with other users reminding them that “posting on Twitter while driving is unreliable, safety first.”

The tweet prompted other users to share their experiences with the recent feature, with some stating that they have been using their phones and laptops or even sleeping thanks to FSD.

While some users feel confident in using Tesla’s FSD, several incidents have shown that it has to be used with precautions.

The company has already been under scrutiny by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) because of the FSD software.

Police confirmed that a Tesla involved in a fatal motorcycle crash was using FSD software.

Tesla’s robotaxi, which is a ride-hailing service that uses the company’s vehicles equipped with (FSD) software, has also been involved with the US auto safety agency.

The agency contacted the company after seeing online videos of a Tesla robotaxi allegedly using the wrong lane and speeding by another driverless vehicle.

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