Using Mobile Phone While Driving
Using a hand-held mobile phone or device while operating a motor vehicle.
Fine (1st)
₹5,000
Repeat Fine
₹10,000
Imprisonment
Up to 6 months (repeat)
What the Law Says
Section 184 of the Motor Vehicles Act prohibits using a hand-held communication device while driving. Research shows that using a phone while driving slows reaction time by up to 50% — equivalent to having a BAC of 0.08%. Texting while driving is 6 times more dangerous than drunk driving. Hands-free calling is technically legal but can still constitute distracted driving if it impairs vehicle control.
"Explanation.—For the purpose of this section,— ... (c) use of handheld communications devices while driving ... shall amount to driving in such manner which is dangerous to the public." — Explanation to Sec. 184, inserted by the MV (Amendment) Act, 2019
Consequences
- ₹5,000 fine for first offence
- ₹10,000 fine and/or 6 months imprisonment for repeat offence
- Licence suspension in states like Delhi
- Points added to driving record
State-Specific Fines
Delhi
₹5,000 + 6-month suspension
Karnataka
₹5,000
Maharashtra
₹5,000
Uttar Pradesh
₹5,000
Tamil Nadu
₹5,000
How to Avoid This Violation
- ✓Enable "Do Not Disturb While Driving" mode on your phone before you start
- ✓Use your car's built-in Bluetooth or hands-free system for calls
- ✓Pull over safely to a parking spot if you must read or send a message
- ✓Ask a passenger to handle navigation and messaging
- ✓Switch your phone to airplane mode on short trips
What to Do If Caught
- 1.Accept the challan politely — it is admissible evidence
- 2.Pay the fine through the e-challan Parivahan portal or on the spot via official receipt
- 3.Do not try to negotiate or offer a bribe — it carries additional criminal liability
Key Facts
6×
more dangerous than drunk driving when texting
50%
slower reaction time when using a phone
₹5,000
minimum fine under 2019 amendment
Legal Reference
Section 184, MV Act
Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 184; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019
Related Violations
Information sourced from Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 — Section 184; MV (Amendment) Act, 2019. For awareness only — consult a legal professional for specific advice.