How to Avoid Points for Using Mobile Phone: Smart Tips

Introduction

Using your mobile phone while driving in the UK is a fast track to trouble. You could face penalty points, hefty fines, or even lose your licence altogether—especially if you’re a new driver or driving professionally. But avoiding these consequences is entirely doable. In this post, we’ll walk you through “How to Avoid Points for Using Mobile Phone”, covering laws, safe alternatives, timelines, and expert advice. Let’s explore what you can do to stay both legal and safe behind the wheel.

What are the UK Penalty Points and Fines For Using a Mobile Phone While Driving?

In the UK, it’s illegal to hold and use a mobile phone while driving. This includes situations where your vehicle is:

• Moving

• Stopped in traffic

• Stationary at traffic lights

If you are discovered using a handheld phone while operating a motor vehicle, you will be subject to the following penalties, per GOV.UK:

• A £200 fixed penalty notice (FPN)

• 6 penalty points on your driving licence

If your case goes to court (for instance, if you contest the FPN or your driving caused further danger), you could face:

• Up to £1,000 fines for regular drivers
• Up to £2,500 for bus and HGV drivers

For new drivers—those who passed their test within the last two years—just one mobile phone offence means immediate licence revocation. You’ll need to:

• Apply for a new provisional licence
• Pass both theory and practical tests again

Why is Using a Mobile Phone While Driving So Dangerous – Even Hands-Free?

You may think hands-free is safe, but it still significantly increases your risk of crashing.

• Drivers who are using their hands are 4 times more likely to be involved in an accident

• Texting or typing takes your eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds—that’s like driving blind for 100 metres at 40mph

• Hands-free conversations can slow your reaction time by up to 30%—similar to being over the drink-drive limit

Surveys show that:

• Around 50,000 UK drivers use a handheld phone while driving each day

• 11 million admit to using phones while driving, either occasionally or regularly

Despite the laws, the problem persists. Mental distraction is just as dangerous as physical distraction, and the police are trained to spot both.

How can I Legally Avoid Points For Using a Mobile Phone and Stay Safe?

Can hands‑free help me avoid penalty points?

Yes—but only if used correctly.

You’re allowed to use a phone hands-free through:

• Bluetooth headsets

• Voice-activated controls

• Dashboard mounts or windscreen holders

However, to remain legal:

• The device must be fully set up before you start driving

• It must not obstruct your view

• You have to maintain complete control of the car

“While our phones have become smart, it is dumb to play with it when driving. The best thing to do is convert the glove box into a phone box and keep the mobile out of reach.”
— Jack Cousens, AA

If police believe you’re distracted, even while using hands-free, you can still be prosecuted.

What are the safe ways to handle navigation or calls on the move?

To stay safe and within the law:

• Set up your navigation and music before you drive

• Use “Do Not Disturb” modes to silence notifications

• Enable auto-replies for calls and texts

• If you need to take a call or check a message, pull over in a safe place and switch off the engine

Even at drive-throughs or car parks, you must be stationary with the engine off to use your phone legally (unless making a contactless payment).

Are there legal exceptions where mobile use is permitted?

Yes, but they’re limited. You can use a hand-held phone if:

• You’re safely parked with the engine off

• In a true emergency, you must dial 999 or 112, and it would be dangerous or impracticable to stop.
• You’re stationary at a drive-through, toll booth, or other location and utilising your phone to make a contactless payment.

What Practical Habits Help you Avoid Points and Stay Focused?

Here are habits that reduce temptation and keep you within the law:

• • Keep your phone out of reach—use your glovebox or bag

  • If you depend on navigation, use a phone cradle or dashboard mount

  • Tell your contacts you won’t respond while driving

  • Schedule breaks if you expect calls or need to check messages

  • Reflect honestly: If you feel the urge to check your phone, it’s a sign to build new habits

What are the consequences if phone use causes an accident or you repeat the offence?

• Being involved in an accident while distracted can lead to charges like careless or dangerous driving, even without a collision.

• Accumulating 12 points in three years typically leads to a court-imposed ban ﹙six months, usually﹚.

• Repeated phone offences impact insurance costs—premiums may jump significantly.

What Happens if you’re Caught on your Phone While Driving in the UK?

If you are seen on camera or by the police:

• You’ll receive a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN): £200 + 6 points

• New drivers will lose their licence immediately

• You will be hauled to court if you decide to contest the FPN or if the crime is significant (such as a near-miss or accident)

What is the penalty for HGV drivers using a mobile phone?

For HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) drivers, the rules are even stricter:

• Fine: Up to £2,500

• 6 penalty points

• Risk of suspension, possible revocation of a vocational licence, and referral to the Traffic Commissioner

• Employers may face inspections or rating downgrades if compliance is poor

Professional drivers are held to higher standards—and rightly so, given the risks posed by large vehicles.

How Long Do Police Have to Issue a Mobile Phone “Ticket”?

Notice of Intended Prosecution (NIP):

• Police must serve a NIP within 14 days of the alleged offence

• It’s usually sent to the registered keeper of the vehicle

• The recipient must respond with driver details within 28 days

Fixed Penalty:

• Once the driver is identified, police have up to 6 months to issue a Fixed Penalty or start court proceedings

• Delays of 3–4 weeks are common, but tickets can arrive even 3 months later

Going to Court For Using a Mobile Phone

If you contest a ticket or the offence is serious, you’ll receive a court summons.

In court:

• You may face fines up to £1,000 (or £2,500 for HGV drivers)

• You could be disqualified from driving

• It’s possible to get a criminal record, depending on circumstances

• If found not guilty, no fine or points are imposed—but you’ll still face legal costs

Courts can show leniency if you have a strong, valid reason—but this is rare.

Can I Touch My Phone in a Cradle While Driving in the UK?

Yes—but only minimally, and only if it doesn’t affect your control of the vehicle.

You can:

• Tap the screen to answer a call

• Use voice commands to initiate actions

You cann’t:

• Scroll through messages, social media, or emails

• Input new routes into navigation while driving

• Hold the phone—even if it’s briefly

Important: Even in a cradle, if police believe you’re distracted, they can still charge you with not being in proper control, which carries 3 penalty points and a £100 fine.

Conclusion

Avoiding points for using your mobile phone is simple—don’t touch it while driving. With clear laws, steep penalties, and real risks, it’s not worth the glance or text. Use hands-free properly, pull over to use your phone, and build safer habits. For HGV and new drivers, the stakes are even higher. Protect your licence, your job, and most importantly, lives on the road.

FAQs

Can I talk hands‑free and still get points?

You shouldn’t—but if the police judge you’re distracted or not in control, you may still be penalised.

Is using a phone at traffic lights allowed?

No—even when stopped, you cannot hold or use your phone unless safely parked with the engine off.

What if it’s an emergency?

You can call 999 or 112, but only if it’s unsafe or impractical to stop first.

Will insurance premiums go up with points?

Definitely—points increase your risk profile, and many drivers report significant premium hikes.

I’m a new driver—how quickly can I lose my licence?

One phone offence (6 points) within two years of passing your test results in licence revocation and the need to reapply and retake tests.