Using a mobile phone while driving in Germany (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Drivers may not pick up or hold a phone. Other use is allowed only by voice control and read-aloud, or with a brief glance.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed with limits [1] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | €100.00 per offence [2] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | 1 points [3] |
Notes
- Allowed only if the device is not picked up or held and either only voice control and read-aloud are used, or only a brief glance suited to the conditions is needed.
- Standard fine (Regelsatz) for unlawful use while driving a vehicle. Separate entries (Nr. 246.2 and 246.3) cover use with endangerment or damage.
- Anlage 13 FeV lists BKat Nr. 246.1 under one point. Use with endangerment or damage is listed under two points.
Sources
- Bundesministerium der Justiz (gesetze-im-internet.de): Straßenverkehrs-Ordnung (StVO) § 23 Sonstige Pflichten von Fahrzeugführenden (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Bundesministerium der Justiz (gesetze-im-internet.de): Anlage BKatV (Bußgeldkatalog-Verordnung) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Bundesministerium der Justiz (gesetze-im-internet.de): Anlage 13 FeV (Bewertung der Straftaten und Ordnungswidrigkeiten) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.