Mobile phones and driving: rules 148 to 150

Test yourself · 2

Two questions on phones and distractions

Question 1 of 2

1. A driver passed their first driving test eight months ago. They are caught holding and using a phone to take a photograph while driving. Which outcome does GOV.UK describe for this offence?

   • A 6 penalty points, a £200 fine and loss of their licence Right
   • B 3 penalty points, a £200 fine and permission to keep their licence
   • C 6 penalty points and a £200 fine, with their licence kept for a first offence
   • D A £200 fine without points, since the phone was used only as a camera

   The right answer is A: 6 penalty points, a £200 fine and loss of their licence

   WhyHand-held phone use can bring 6 points and a £200 fine; drivers who passed in the last 2 years also lose their licence.

   Source: GOV.UK: Using a phone, sat nav or other device when driving - Penalties

   Report this question

2. Which of these does the Highway Code list as a distraction to avoid while driving?

   • A Listening for emergency sirens
   • B Glancing at your speedometer
   • C Eating or drinking Right
   • D Checking your mirrors

   The right answer is C: Eating or drinking

   WhyEating and drinking are distractions; keep your full attention on the road.

   Source: The Highway Code, rule 148

   Report this question

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The rule in plain words

Rule 149 bans any use of a hand-held phone, tablet or similar device while you drive, or while you supervise a learner. That covers calls, texts, photos, music and maps, and it applies even when the device is offline or in flight mode. It also applies when you are stopped in traffic or at lights. You must not pick the phone up to dial and then put it in a holder for the call either.

Hands-free is allowed if you never hold the device and it does not block your view of the road. But the Highway Code warns that hands-free can still distract you, and GOV.UK says the police can stop you if they think you are not in control. In the Highway Code’s words: “It is far safer not to use any telephone or similar device while you are driving or riding”.

Phones and devices: what is allowed

What it means in practice

Your phone rings on the motorway

Let it ring. Do not stop on the hard shoulder to answer it: rule 271 says not to stop on any part of a motorway for a phone call, except in an emergency. Call back from a service area.

You want to change the music or the map

Rule 148 lists starting or adjusting music, reading maps, eating, drinking and arguing as distractions to avoid. Set your route and music before you set off, or find a safe place to stop first.

You passed your test a year ago

Holding and using your phone while driving means 6 penalty points. New drivers lose their licence when they reach 6 points in the first 2 years, so one offence is enough (GOV.UK).

Common mistakes

• Thinking it is fine at red lights. The ban applies when you are stopped in traffic too.
• Thinking flight mode makes it legal. The ban covers the device whether it is online or not.
• Holding it on speaker. If it is in your hand, it is hand-held.
• Treating hands-free as risk-free. You can still be stopped if you are not in proper control.
• Putting the phone where it blocks your view. A holder or mount must leave your view of the road clear.

Questions about phones and driving

What is rule 149 of the Highway Code?

It says you must keep proper control of your vehicle and must not use a hand-held phone or similar device for any purpose while driving or supervising a learner, with a few exceptions. Source: rule 149.

Can I use my phone as a sat nav?

Yes, hands-free in a holder or mount, as long as you do not hold it and it does not block your view of the road. Source: GOV.UK.

What is the penalty for using a phone while driving?

6 penalty points and a £200 fine. You lose your licence if you passed your test in the last 2 years. A court can also ban you and fine you up to £1,000. Source: GOV.UK.

Can I use my phone in a traffic jam?

No. You must not pick up and use a hand-held device while stationary in traffic. Source: rule 149.

Read next

• Alertness theory test questions
• Drink, drugs and tiredness: rules 91 to 96
• Breaking down on a motorway: rules 275 to 280
• More Highway Code rules, explained

Sources

(4)

1. The Highway Code, rules 148 to 150 (distractions, mobile phones and in-vehicle technology), GOV.UK. Checked 4 November 2026.
2. Using a phone, sat nav or other device when driving, GOV.UK. Checked 4 November 2026.
3. Penalty points (endorsements): new drivers, GOV.UK. Checked 4 November 2026.
4. The Highway Code, rule 271, GOV.UK. Checked 4 November 2026.

Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Quotes from The Highway Code are Crown copyright. Sources and image credits.