Using a hand-held mobile phone or similar device illegally while driving or riding in Northern Ireland carries a significant fixed penalty.
Current Northern Ireland guidance states that a driver or rider caught illegally using a hand-held mobile phone or similar device receives six penalty points and a £200 fixed penalty.
Because the mobile-phone offence carries six points, a newly qualified driver subject to the New Drivers Order can reach the revocation threshold from this offence alone.
The new-driver rule applies during the first two years after passing the first driving test.
Official NI guidance says a court case can result in disqualification as well as a fine. The maximum fine listed for ordinary drivers is £1,000, rising to £2,500 for drivers of buses and goods vehicles.
The official guidance identifies limited circumstances where hand-held use is permitted, including calling 999 or 112 in a genuine emergency where stopping would be unsafe or impracticable, and use when safely parked.
