It is illegal to drive while using a mobile phone. If you are caught using a mobile phone while driving you face a £60 fine, three penalty points on your licence and up to £1000 fine if the matter goes to court.

Special cases

• You can use hands-free sets. Also, users will not be prosecuted if the phone is held in a cradle. Drivers should take care when using a hands-free kit as it's still a distraction from driving.
• Driving with the phone balanced between shoulder and ear doesn't count as hands-free.
• Texting while driving is not allowed.
• You cannot answer incoming calls while driving. The driver must stop at the side of the road before answering.
• The ban also applies to driving while stopped at traffic lights or in a traffic jam. While the car is under the control of a driver, then that driver cannot use a mobile phone. An exception is made in lengthy tailbacks when the engine is turned off.
• Calls to 999 (or 112) in genuine emergencies are permitted where it would be unsafe or impractical to stop.
• Two-way radios can still be used, but only if the radio cannot also function as a mobile phone. Using a dual function radio/phone is illegal even when only the radio function of the device is used.
• There are no restrictions on passengers using mobile phones.
• The law requires that drivers be in control of their vehicle at all times. This means that the police can still act if they see a driver distracted by things like eating a sandwich, shaving, or drinking from a bottle while driving.