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.
"Whoever drives a motor vehicle in a public place in a manner which endangers or is likely to be dangerous to any person..." — Sec. 184, MV Act (covers mobile phone use as dangerous driving)
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.