← All topics
Mobile Phones While Driving
In WA the mobile phone rules are the same for every driver, from learner to full licence holder. Holding or touching a phone while driving is an offence, even when stopped at lights. Using a phone fixed in a mount (GPS or calls) is legal for all drivers, including learners.
Key Rules
- Never hold or touch your phone while driving: this rule applies equally to learner, P1/P2 and full licence holders.
- Hands-free use is legal for any driver if the phone is fixed in a mount: GPS and calls via Bluetooth/speaker, without touching it.
- Penalty: a fixed fine plus demerit points. Double demerits apply only during declared holiday periods in WA, not in school zones or roadworks.
- Announced change, not yet in force: a GLS reform announced for April 2026 would add phone restrictions for novice drivers. Until it starts, the rules above apply.
Common Mistakes
- Thinking learner drivers face a special phone ban: current WA law sets the same rule for everyone, and a mounted phone is legal for learners too.
- Picking up the phone at a red light: holding or touching it is an offence even when the car is stopped in traffic.
Practical Example
Maria (learner driver) fixes her phone in the car mount and starts GPS navigation before driving off, with her supervisor beside her. This is legal: the offence is holding or touching the phone while driving, and that applies to every licence type.
Quick Check
- Can a learner driver use a mounted phone for GPS? → Yes. Mounted hands-free use is legal for all drivers under current WA law.
- A driver has her phone in her hand at a red light. Is this legal? → No. Holding the phone is an offence for any driver, even when stopped.
Source: Road Safety Commission WA (Street-Wise, phone rules): streetwise.rsc.wa.gov.au/rules/phones