Driving whilst using a hand-held device
Last updated:It is illegal
- to ride a motorcycle or drive using hand-held phones or similar devices. The rules are the same if you are stopped at traffic lights or queuing in traffic.
- to use a hand-held phone or similar device when supervising a learner driver or rider.
Penalties for using your hand-held device while driving
Drivers/riders can get an automatic fixed penalty notice of 3 penalty points on their licence and a fine of £100 if caught using a hand-held phone while driving or riding.
Some cases also go to court where drivers/riders could be disqualified from driving or riding (gov.uk) and get a maximum fine of £1,000. Drivers of buses or goods vehicles could get a maximum fine of £2,500.
New drivers
New drivers will lose their licence if they get 6 or more penalty points within 2 years of passing their test.
Employers
It is also an offence to “cause or permit” a driver to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving. This would apply to employers who require or allow their employees to use a hand-held mobile phone whilst driving for work purposes; the penalties would depend on the particular circumstances in each case.
When can you use a hand-held phone in your vehicle
If you are the driver, you can only use your phone in a vehicle if you:
- need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it’s unsafe or impractical to stop;
- are safely parked with the vehicle engine switched off.