Mobile Phone Driving Law UK 2026: Rules, Fines and Points

In the UK it's illegal to hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet or any device that can send or receive data while driving or supervising a learner, even when you're stopped at traffic lights or in a queue. The penalty is 6 penalty points and a £200 fine, and new drivers who passed in the last 2 years lose their licence. Hands-free use is allowed only if you never hold the device and stay in full control.

Here's exactly what's allowed, what isn't and why the rules are stricter than many people think.

What the law says

GOV.UK and Highway Code rule 149 say you must not hold and use a phone or similar device while driving. That includes:

• making or receiving calls
• texting, messaging or using apps
• taking photos or videos
• browsing the web
• using the device in your hand for any other reason

It applies even if the device is offline or in flight mode, and when you're:

• stopped at traffic lights
• queuing in traffic
• supervising a learner driver
• driving a car that turns off its engine automatically when you stop

Penalties

Because 6 points within 2 years of passing revokes a new driver's licence, a single phone offence is enough. See after you pass your driving test.

Using a phone hands-free

You can use a device hands-free as long as you don't hold it at any point. Examples include:

• a Bluetooth headset
• voice commands
• a dashboard holder or mat
• a windscreen mount
• a built-in sat nav

The device must not block your view of the road and traffic ahead. Even hands-free, you must stay in full control of the car, and the police can stop you if they think you're distracted. If they do, you could be prosecuted for not having proper control.

Set your sat nav or music before you set off, so you don't need to touch the device while moving.

When you can use a hand-held phone

GOV.UK lists these exceptions:

1. You need to call 999 or 112 in an emergency and it's unsafe or impractical to stop.
2. You're safely parked.
3. You're making a contactless payment in a vehicle that isn't moving, for example at a drive-through.
4. You're using the device to park remotely.

Being stopped in traffic or at lights doesn't count as parked, and neither does a car whose engine switches off automatically when you stop.

Why phones are so dangerous

Using a phone takes your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel and your mind off driving. Even a quick glance at a notification means travelling a long way without looking at the road. Our guide to stopping distances shows how quickly that distance adds up.

Simple habits to stay legal and safe

• Turn on a driving focus or "do not disturb" mode before you set off.
• Put the phone out of reach, such as in the glovebox or a bag on the back seat.
• Set the sat nav and music before moving.
• Let passengers handle navigation and messages.
• Pull over somewhere safe and legal and switch off the engine if you really need to use your phone.

These habits are a core part of defensive driving and building the habits of a confident driver.

Summary

Never hold and use a phone while driving, even in a queue or at lights. It costs 6 points and £200, and new drivers lose their licence. Hands-free is allowed only if you never touch the device, it doesn't block your view and you stay in full control. Set everything up before you drive, and keep the phone out of reach.

Learn the rules with Co-Drive

Co-Drive is an iOS app with original theory practice questions written from The Highway Code (not official DVSA questions), new-driver lessons and spaced review. And no, you shouldn't use it while driving. Find out more.