Mobile phones and driving: the law

Since 25 March 2022, it's been illegal to use a hand-held phone for almost any purpose while driving or riding: not just calls and texts, but taking photos, scrolling playlists, or playing games.

#The penalty

If you're caught using a hand-held phone while driving, you can get 6 penalty points and a £200 fine. You can also be taken to court, where you could be banned from driving and fined up to £1,000.

#Why it matters even more for new drivers

If you get 6 points within two years of passing your test, your licence is revoked under the New Drivers Act. One phone offence is enough. You'd have to apply for a new provisional licence and pass both tests again.

It also applies to anyone supervising a learner. Supervisors are in charge of the car and can be prosecuted for using a hand-held phone.

#What's allowed

You can use a phone hands-free, for example with a sat nav or music, if it's in a holder and doesn't block your view of the road. You must have it set up before you set off, and you can still be stopped if the police think you're not in control.

The law also covers when you're stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic. The only exceptions are things like calling 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency when it's unsafe or impractical to stop, or when you're safely parked.

#Our advice

Put your phone on do not disturb and out of reach before you drive. Nothing on it is worth your licence.