Using a mobile phone while driving: UK law, penalties and safe practice

Mobile phones are part of daily life for couriers — from navigation and customer updates to using the Courier Exchange app. But using a mobile phone while driving puts you, your load, and others at serious risk.

UK law is now stricter than ever, and knowing the rules is key to avoiding fines, points on your licence, and potentially dangerous situations.

In this guide, we’ll explain what’s allowed, what’s not, and how to stay safe and legal behind the wheel.

What counts as use: devices, covered activities, and banned actions

The law applies to any handheld device capable of sending or receiving data. That includes phones, tablets, sat navs, and even digital music players if you’re holding or operating them manually.

It covers a wide range of actions, not just calling or texting. You can’t:

• Scroll through playlists or change songs
• Check notifications or read messages
• Take photos or videos
• Unlock or wake your phone
• Use apps, camera, or social media
• Play games or watch videos
• Update job statuses or check apps like Courier Exchange unless the device is mounted and hands-free

If the device is in your hand, it counts as illegal use.

When the rules apply: including stationary traffic and supervision

Many drivers assume that stopping at red lights or sitting in traffic means they can use their phone. But that’s not the case.

The law applies at all times when you are behind the wheel and the engine is on. This includes when stopped at:

• Traffic lights
• Junctions
• Congestion or queues
• Temporary delays (e.g. roadworks)

This also applies when supervising a learner driver. You must not use a mobile phone while acting as a supervising passenger.

Lawful exceptions: emergencies, payments and remote parking

There are a few very specific exceptions under UK law on using a mobile phone while driving. You can legally use a handheld phone if:

• You’re calling emergency services (999 or 112)
• It’s genuinely unsafe or impractical to stop
• You’re using the device to make a contactless payment at a drive-through, toll booth, or similar fixed location
• You’re using a remote-control parking function via your phone

All other handheld use is banned while driving.

Hands-free use requirements: mounts, voice control and clear view

You are allowed to use a mobile phone while driving via hands-free systems, but only if you’re not holding the device. Legal setups include:

• A fully mounted phone or cradle
• Bluetooth headsets
• In-built dashboard systems
• Voice control (e.g. Siri, Google Assistant)

The device must not block your view of the road. And you must maintain full control of your vehicle at all times.

Even with legal hands-free setups, it’s good practice to limit calls or distractions while the vehicle is moving — especially for couriers driving in busy areas or making frequent stops.

A brief glance at a mounted screen is far safer than tapping or scrolling. If something needs your attention, pull over and switch the engine off.

Penalties, points, fines, disqualification and court outcomes

If you’re caught using a mobile phone while driving, you’ll receive:

• A £200 fine
• 6 points on your licence

New drivers (within the first 2 years) will automatically lose their licence after one offence. More serious cases (such as causing a collision) can lead to a court summons, driving ban, or a fine up to £1,000.

Repeat offences can escalate your penalty — and as a courier, this can impact:

• Courier insurance costs
• Job opportunities
• Your ability to remain active on platforms such as Courier Exchange

Why the risk is higher for couriers

Couriers rely on their licence and their van to work. Any penalty can affect your ability to earn.

For courier drivers, the added risks include:

• Increased insurance premiums
• Loss of work due to penalties or a ban
• Account or contract restrictions with certain operators
• Stricter requirements when passing onboarding checks for new clients

Courier work often involves stop–start driving, delivery deadlines, and frequent navigation — making it even more important to stay focused and distraction-free.

Staying in full control: police powers and careless driving offences

Police don’t need to see you using your phone to take action.

If they believe you are distracted or not in full control, they can stop you and issue a penalty for careless or dangerous driving, even if you’re using a legal hands-free setup.

That includes:

• Drifting across lanes
• Slow reaction times
• Hesitant or erratic driving
• Missing signs or hazards

In these cases, the standard fine is £100 with 3 penalty points. More serious offences may lead to prosecution.

Common myths about distraction and hands-free risk

It’s a myth that hands-free equals distraction-free. Studies show that hands-free calls still increase your risk of collision because your attention is split between driving and processing the conversation.

Other common myths include:

• “I can use my phone if it’s on speaker in my lap.”
  Still counts as handheld.
• “I wasn’t texting, just checking my map.”
  Still illegal if the device is not mounted.
• “I’m fine if the van is in park but the engine is running.”
  The law still applies.
• “I can update my job on the Exchange between drops.”
  Only legal if your device is mounted and you’re using hands-free — never while holding the phone.

Practical setup tips to avoid handling your device

To stay legal and safe, consider these practical tips:

• Use a windscreen or dashboard mount that doesn’t block your view
• Set your navigation before starting your journey
• Use Bluetooth or voice controls to make calls
• Enable “Do Not Disturb While Driving” mode
• Avoid resting your phone in cup holders or on the dashboard — it can slide or distract you
• If your van doesn’t support Bluetooth, aftermarket kits cost around £15–£30

Good preparation before you start your route can help you avoid temptations to handle your phone while driving.

Frequently asked questions