Half of young drivers use their phone to play music while driving
Wed, 02 Apr 2025
Nearly 1 in 2 young drivers are at risk of a fine, penalty points or even a driving ban through using their phone to play music while driving.
The 45% of young drivers aged 18-34 who admit to playing music through their phone while behind the wheel is more than double the national average.
Furthermore, a survey by temporary car insurance firm Tempcover found that more than a fifth of drivers believe controlling music on their phone while driving is legal.
It is, in fact, illegal. Since March 2022, using a hand-held device for any purpose has been against the law.
It carries a £200 fine and six penalty points – which, of course, would lead to a driving ban if drivers pick them up within two years of passing their test.
"Drivers should always use hands-free devices. Remember, the laws on mobile phones still apply even when you’re stopped at traffic lights or in a queue," says Tempcover expert Claire Wills-Mckissick.
"Picking up your phone to skip a track or turn up the volume could lead to a hefty fine and penalty points, or even a driving ban."
Bizarrely, the survey also showed that 21% of drivers don’t think they would be breaking the law by watching TV or films behind the wheel.
Wills-Mckissick adds that in severe cases, where driving becomes hazardous, motorists could face an unlimited fine, up to nine penalty points or even a dangerous driving charge.
Interestingly, the survey found that 30% of young drivers say they have worn headphones to listen to music while driving. While not technically illegal, they could still be at risk of penalties for driving without due car and attention.
Is it legal to use a phone in a holder while driving?
