Changes to mobile phone driving law to come into force from 25th March

25th March 2022

Starting from today (25th March 2022), it is now illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving under virtually any circumstance. These changes were supported by 80% of respondents in a public consultation conducted by the DVSA in 2021.

This means you must not use your mobile device whilst driving for any reason wether it be online or offline. This law has been updated to now also apply to:

– Driving Instructors or anyone supervising a learner driver
– If you’re stopped at traffic lights
– Queuing in traffic
– Driving a car that turns the engine off when you stop moving
– Holding and using a device that is offline or in flight/airplane mode.

There are exceptions however such as making a contactless payment or calling 999 or 112 in an emergency whilst the vehicle is not moving.

Anyone caught using their handheld device while driving could face a fine of up to £1,000 as well as 6 points on their licence or a full driving ban. If you have had your license for less than 2 years, your license will be revoked.

For Driving Instructors or anyone supervising a learner, checking your phone during a lesson will land you 6 points and a £200 fine. The DVSA can also remove you from the ADI register if you get 6 points on your licence. This could cost you your job as a driving instructor.

For more information on this new law change visit the following link – https://www.gov.uk/government/news/transport-secretary-declares-zero-tolerance-for-phone-use-behind-the-wheel-as-law-changes-today