Skip to content
Emergency

Phone at the wheel: this costs a fine and points

A quick look at the phone while driving? That can become expensive. The use of electronic devices at the wheel is strictly regulated; operating it is only allowed without picking up the device.

Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:

Clarify the question →

Your chances of getting your money back

Anyone who, while driving, picks up or holds a phone or other electronic device in order to use it violates § 23 StVO. A fine and a point threaten; if there is an endangerment or an accident, the sanctions are considerably higher (a driving ban is also possible).
Use is only allowed without picking up the device, for example via a hands-free system or voice control. The ban also applies during a traffic-related stop (for example at a red light), as long as the engine is not switched off.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Put the device away

    While driving, do not pick up the phone, not even at the lights.

  2. 2

    2. Use hands-free

    Operation only via a mount, hands-free system or voice control.

  3. 3

    3. In case of a fine, check

    With a fine notice, check (or have checked) the accusation, evidence and circumstances of the act.

  4. 4

    4. Mind the points

    Keep an eye on your points balance; violations add up.

Frequently asked questions

May I look at the phone at a red light?

Only if the engine is switched off (an automatic start-stop function does not count as switching off). As long as the engine is running, also during a stop at the lights or in a jam, you may not pick up the phone. Otherwise it counts as forbidden use at the wheel (§ 23 StVO), with a fine and a point.

What does a phone at the wheel cost?

For the forbidden use of the phone while driving there is a fine and a point in the driving aptitude register. If there is an endangerment of others or an accident, the fine and the number of points increase, and a driving ban can be added. Only operation without the device in your hand remains allowed.

Take action now

We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.

Clarify the questionCheck a suspicious message
More help: Emergency by phone · Act together · Right to a lawyer · All guides

General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.