Final answer:
According to the California Vehicle Code, it is illegal for a 17-year-old driver in California to use a hands-free device to talk on the phone as it is considered a distraction for young and inexperienced drivers.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the California Vehicle Code, it is illegal for a 17-year-old driver to use a hands-free device to talk on the phone. In California, drivers under the age of 18 are prohibited from using any electronic wireless communication device while driving, even if it is hands-free. This includes talking, texting, or browsing the internet on a cell phone.
The purpose of this law is to minimize distractions for young and inexperienced drivers, as studies have shown that using a cell phone while driving increases the risk of accidents.
Therefore, the correct answer to your question is No, a 17-year-old driver in California cannot use a hands-free device to talk on the phone.