Mobile phone laws in QLD: what drivers and passengers need to know

Driver distraction continues to contribute to serious road trauma across Queensland. Mobile phones are one of the most common causes of distraction behind the wheel, affecting a driver's ability to react quickly and safely to changing road conditions.

Research shows that using a mobile phone while driving can be as dangerous as drink driving. Looking away from the road for just two seconds while travelling at 60 km/h means you've travelled more than 33 metres without watching what's happening in front of you.

Queensland has strict mobile phone laws aimed at reducing distraction-related accidents. Understanding these rules can help you avoid fines and demerit points, while keeping yourself and others safe on the road.

Mobile phone rules for all drivers in Queensland

Regardless of the type of licence you hold, it is illegal to:

• hold a mobile phone in your hand while driving
• have a mobile phone resting on any part of your body, including your lap or shoulder, while driving

These restrictions apply even if you're stopped in traffic or waiting at traffic lights. Your phone doesn't need to be turned on or in use for an offence to occur.

When can you legally hold your phone?

Queensland law allows drivers to hold their phone in limited circumstances when they are safely stopped. You can hold your phone to:

• pay for goods or services, such as at a drive-through
• gain access to or leave a road-related area, such as a car park
• present a digital driver licence or another document to police when requested
• retrieve a card or money from a phone wallet for these purposes

You can also use your phone when safely parked. Being stopped in traffic or at a red light is not considered parked. 

Hands-free mobile phone use for open and P2 licence holders

If you hold an open or P2 licence, you are permitted to use certain hands-free phone functions while driving. For example, you can:

• accept a phone call
• use navigation apps
• skip music tracks
• accept or end a trip as a rideshare driver

To do this lawfully, the phone should be secured in a cradle attached to the vehicle or connected through your vehicle's Bluetooth system. The phone must not obscure your view of the road.

You may also operate a phone using voice controls while it remains in a pocket or pouch that you're wearing, provided you do not touch or look at the device.

Even when hands-free use is allowed, you must remain in proper control of your vehicle and drive with due care and attention.

Fines and demerit points for illegal phone use

Drivers caught illegally using a mobile phone can receive:

• from July 2026, a $1,295 fine, with the amount increasing each year
• four demerit points

Double demerit points apply if you commit a second mobile phone offence within 12 months of a previous offence. A repeat offence can result in a further eight demerit points being recorded against your history.

Queensland also uses mobile phone detection cameras throughout the state to help enforce these laws.

Additional restrictions for learner and P1 drivers

Queensland applies stricter rules to learner drivers and P1 drivers under 25 years of age. These drivers cannot use a phone in any way while driving, including:

• hands-free systems
• Bluetooth connections
• wireless headsets
• loudspeaker functions
• navigation apps
• voice commands

If a phone is in your pocket or in a pouch you're wearing, you must not touch it, look at it or operate it using your voice.

The limited exceptions allowing drivers to hold a phone while safely stopped for payments, car park access or presenting a digital licence still apply.

Can passengers use a mobile phone?

Generally, passengers can use mobile phones while travelling in a vehicle.

However, if the driver holds a learner licence or is a P1 driver under 25, passengers must not use a mobile phone on loudspeaker. This restriction aims to reduce distractions for less experienced drivers.

Passengers can help reduce distraction by managing navigation, reading messages or handling other phone-related tasks for the driver.

Do the same rules apply to motorcycle riders?

Yes. Queensland's mobile phone restrictions apply to motorcycle riders in the same way they apply to drivers of passenger vehicles. The rules depend on the rider's licence type and age.

Interstate and overseas licence holders must also comply with Queensland's mobile phone rules while travelling in the state.

Ask yourself: can it wait?

With constant notifications, it's easy to feel pressure to reply straight away. But when you're driving, every distraction matters.

If you regularly carry your phone within easy reach, consider making a few simple changes before you start your journey:

• if you're legally permitted to do so, set up your navigation, Bluetooth and music before you leave 
• let family or friends know you're about to drive and will reply later
• activate do-not-disturb mode
• place your phone somewhere out of reach, such as the glove box, centre console or a bag in the back seat
• use automatic replies to let people know you're driving

A few moments of planning can help keep your attention where it belongs: on the road.

Note: Restrictions on mobile phone use apply to learner and P1 drivers in some circumstances. Always follow the road rules that apply to your licence.

Injured by a driver using their phone?

Using a mobile phone while driving can lead to serious accidents and life-changing injuries.

If you've been injured in a road accident caused by a distracted driver, you may be entitled to compensation through Queensland's compulsory third party (CTP) insurance scheme.

Time limits apply to road accident compensation claims, so it's important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.

Our Brisbane car accident lawyers and Gold Coast car accident lawyers can help you understand your options and whether you may be eligible to make a claim.