7.5 million drivers admit to illegally using their phone while driving

Key takeaways

• MoneySuperMarket’s new research reveals that 18% of UK drivers admit to using their phone while driving, despite knowing that it’s illegal

• More than a quarter (26%) of drivers say they check their messages or notifications when they stop in traffic

• The study also reveals drivers with a mobile phone offence could pay up to £350 more on their annual car insurance premium

A nationwide survey of the country’s motorists conducted by MoneySuperMarket reveals that almost a fifth (18%), the equivalent of around 7.5 million* drivers, say they have used their mobile phone while driving despite knowing it is illegal.

More than a quarter (26%) of drivers also said they check messages, notifications or change music on their phone while stopped in traffic or at traffic lights – something that is also illegal under UK driving laws.

The research reveals that of the motorists who admitted to using their phones whilst driving, 34% have received penalty points on their licence , and almost one in ten (8%) has received a driving ban for their mobile phone offences.

In the UK, the standard penalty for using a hand-held mobile phone while driving is a £200 fine and six penalty points on your licence.

New drivers face a higher risk: if they get six points within two years of passing their test, their licence is revoked and they must retake both theory and practical exams.

Mobile phone offences significantly increase insurance costs

As well as the legal consequences, being caught using a mobile phone while driving can have a major impact on the cost of your car insurance, as receiving penalty points can affect your premium.

MoneySuperMarket data found that the average annual premium for a driver with a mobile phone offence (CU80) in 2025 was £1,095.54. In comparison, motorists with no offences paid an average of £745.06 per year, meaning drivers with a CU80 conviction can expect to pay around £350 more annually for their car insurance.

Alicia Hempsted
Insurance Expert

Using any kind of electronic device while driving puts you at risk

The law is clear that touching or using a handheld mobile phone at any point while you’re behind the wheel is illegal.

Smart watches are treated in a similar way. If you’re found to be using one while in control of a vehicle, it could lead to six penalty points and a £200 fine.

Beyond the legal implications, a mobile phone conviction can stay on your driving record and may lead to higher car insurance costs, as insurers often take driving offences into account when assessing risk.

^{Sources
*42,120,966 people currently possess a complete UK driving licence, according to data from the Driver and Vehicle Licencing Agency (DVLA) - source: Driving.org}

^{Methodology
The data is based on all UK full licence holders.
Premium figures are based on the average annual premium price paid for policies purchased through MoneySuperMarket from January to December 2025.
Research conducted via Censuswide, surveying 1,000 UK drivers (17+ full licence holders) between 20.01.2026 - 23.01.2026.}