Mobile Phone Distraction Rules - Driving Theory Test

Using a handheld mobile phone while driving is

In Ireland, it is against the law to hold or operate a mobile phone while driving. Offenders face fines and penalty points.

Hands-free devices are permitted only if

Even legal devices can be a hazard. Use only if you can operate them without taking eyes or hands off the road.

A driver using a mobile phone is

Distraction reduces reaction time significantly. Even short calls impair your ability to respond to road hazards.

The safest time to use a mobile phone is

Pull over in a legal, safe location and turn off the engine before using your phone. Do not use at traffic lights or junctions.

Looking at a message or notification while driving is

Even a one-second glance can cause a collision. Avoid checking or reading anything on your device when driving.

You can legally use your phone as a sat-nav if

Program the route before you move. Keep the phone in a fixed cradle and never adjust it while on the road.

Holding your phone in traffic, even when stopped

Whether moving or stationary, it is the act of handling the phone while in control of the vehicle that breaks the law.

A mobile phone may be used to call emergency services

If there is no hands-free setup, stop in a safe location before calling 112 or 999. Avoid calling while the car is in motion.

Distraction from phones affects

Multitasking weakens your ability to notice hazards and delays responses. This increases the risk of serious accidents.

The penalty for using a handheld phone while driving includes

In Ireland, you may receive a fixed charge notice and 3 penalty points. Repeat offences can result in a court summons.

True hands-free driving means

Just because you are not holding the phone does not mean you are not distracted. Mental focus must remain on driving.

Voice assistants or controls should be

Though convenient, voice commands can still divert your attention. Use them sparingly and never in complex traffic situations.

Using a mobile phone while driving is equivalent to

Research shows the impairment can be as bad as driving over the alcohol limit.

When approaching a roundabout or junction, phone use

These are decision-heavy areas. Stay alert and hands-free-delay calls or messages until after passing through.

Using social media while driving is

Taking photos, filming, or scrolling while driving can cause fatal distractions. These actions may lead to disqualification.

The use of mobile phones is particularly risky for

Young drivers are more easily distracted and slower to react. Many crashes involving them are linked to mobile use.

Bluetooth calls are safest when

Even legal calls should be brief. Prolonged conversation diverts your mental focus, especially on busy roads.

The best practice to prevent distraction from your phone is to

This removes temptation and allows full attention on driving. Modern phones also have driving focus settings.

Glancing at your phone for 5 seconds at 90 km/h means

That’s longer than a football field.Plenty of time for a hazard to appear and cause a crash. Never look away while driving.

The most common type of crash from phone distraction is

When distracted, drivers often fail to notice slowing vehicles. Keeping your eyes on the road prevents these accidents.

Using your phone at traffic lights

You are still considered in control of the vehicle. Hands must remain free and attention focused on the surroundings.

If your phone rings while driving, the best action is to

No call is worth the risk. Focus on the drive, and if it is urgent, stop safely before returning the call.

Distracted driving penalties can escalate to

Repeated mobile phone offences can lead to disqualification. Employers may also penalize professional drivers for violations.