FAR and DFARS › FAR Part 26: Other Socioeconomic Programs › Subpart 26.6

FAR 26.603 Definitions.

The codified text (eCFR, as of 2026-10-02). Under the Revolutionary FAR Overhaul ↗, agencies follow class deviations with new text for many parts while the formal rules go through the Federal Register: check the solicitation and your contract's clauses, which rule.

In plain English

This section defines two terms used in the subpart: 'driving' and 'text messaging.' It matters to contractors because these definitions determine when certain conduct counts as driving or text messaging under the rules in this subpart.

Applies to: Contractors subject to the subpart containing these definitions

Key terms: Driving · Text messaging · Active roadway · Handheld or other electronic device · Navigational device

Written by AI from this section's text. A guide, not legal advice: the text below rules.

The text

As used in this subpart—

Driving—(1) Means operating a motor vehicle on an active roadway with the motor running, including while temporarily stationary because of traffic, a traffic light, stop sign, or otherwise.

(2) Does not include operating a motor vehicle with or without the motor running when one has pulled over to the side of, or off, an active roadway and has halted in a location where one can safely remain stationary.

Text messaging means reading from or entering data into any handheld or other electronic device, including for the purpose of short message service texting, e-mailing, instant messaging, obtaining navigational information, or engaging in any other form of electronic data retrieval or electronic data communication. The term does not include glancing at or listening to a navigational device that is secured in a commercially designed holder affixed to the vehicle, provided that the destination and route are programmed into the device either before driving or while stopped in a location off the roadway where it is safe and legal to park.

← 26.602 Applicability. · 26.604 Policy. →

Rule changes for FAR Part 26

Source: eCFR, 48 CFR chapters 1 and 2 (GPO GovInfo bulk data) ↗. Plain words for the terms: glossary.

FAR 26.603 Definitions · SpendQuery