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The answer is whenever your parents think it’s right for you. Most kids will get one in middle school or high school, but some younger kids may have phones to get in touch with their parents or loved ones.

Some parents let their kids have a smartphone. Other parents want their kids to have a different device like a smartwatch, which still allows you to contact someone but has fewer apps than a smartphone. Flip phones let you call and text but don’t connect to the Internet.

If your parents don’t think you’re ready for a phone yet, know that many kids don’t have phones. You’ll have lots of time to use them when you get older.

Why Would I Need a Phone?

You can use a phone for things like calling or texting your parents when sports practice is over. And phones can give you almost instant access to a parent or another trusted adult if something goes wrong or if you need help. It also lets your parents check on you and make sure you’re OK.

What Rules Do I Need to Follow When Using My Phone?

If you get a phone, your parents may want to talk with you about setting rules for your health and safety. Spending too much time on your phone can harm your mental health, and some mobile plans have limited texting and charge extra if you go over.

Ask your parents questions about how they’d like you to use your phone, such as:

  • When can I use my phone?
  • When should the phone be turned off?
  • Who should have my phone number?
  • Whose phone numbers should I have?

If your parents let you have a smartphone (or certain smartwatches), you’ll need to talk with them about online safety. They may want you to wait to have access to social media.

What Else Should I Know?

It’s best to keep your phone in another room while you’re sleeping so you’re not tempted to look at it overnight, which can hurt your sleep.

Have a routine for keeping your phone charged and storing it in the same place so it doesn't get lost. Keep it clean by wiping it with a cloth that’s just a little wet, making sure to not get any moisture in the openings.

Medically reviewed by: Larissa Hirsch, MD
Date reviewed: April 2025