The number of young drivers illegally making or receiving calls without hands-free tech is the highest it's been in eight years, new data from the RAC shows. Despite the ban on handheld phone use being in place for 21 years, more than half (55%) of under-25s admit to making or receiving calls while driving. That’s double the rate of all drivers (27%) and more than three times the figure for over-65s (16%).
Voice notes are also a big issue: 43% of younger drivers admit to listening to them on the move, and 40% have recorded one – far higher than the 14% and 9% averages for all drivers.
The problem comes despite updates to the law over the years. In 2022, a loophole was closed that let drivers avoid punishment if they weren’t actively “communicating” on their phone. But figures show younger drivers continue to ignore the rules.
Here’s how bad it’s getting:
- 39% of under-25s have manually checked messages while driving.
- 30% have taken a photo or recorded a video – up from just 19% in 2023.
- 40% have made or received a video call, compared to 30% last year.
Across all age groups, using phones for things like texting, taking photos, or posting on social media is also on the rise. For example, 8% of drivers admitted to taking photos or videos behind the wheel in 2024 – up from 5% in the two years prior.
RAC spokesperson Rod Dennis says “It’s extremely concerning that despite now having a ‘zero tolerance’ handheld phone law in place, an increasing number of young drivers appear to be using their phones to call, text, voice note or even video chat while operating a vehicle.
“We suspect a major reason for this is drivers not believing they are likely to be caught. But hopefully, growing use of AI cameras which allow police to detect drivers breaking the law will get the message across that offenders will be caught and punished with six penalty points and a £200 fine. For young drivers who passed their tests in the last two years, this means losing their licences.
“Anyone who uses a mobile phone at the wheel in any way is not just risking their own lives, but those of their passengers and all other road users. The only ‘screentime’ drivers should have in the car is looking through the windscreen as they focus on the road.”
Nicholas Lyes from IAM RoadSmart adds, “Using a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel is dangerous and unlawful, and could cost you or someone else their life. Even a momentary distraction can be disastrous, and it is deeply concerning to see that an increasing number of young people are using their phones while driving – particularly to make a video or to take a photo. Almost one in five drivers killed on our roads are aged 17-24, so action needs to be taken, not just by the police, but by drivers themselves who hold a great deal of responsibility behind the wheel.”
If you’re tempted to reach for your phone while driving, don’t. It’s not worth the fine, the points, or the risk to your life and others.
