Using a mobile phone while driving in Portugal (2026)

Last reviewed: 30 October 2026

In short: Using or continuously handling a phone or similar device while driving is banned; a single earpiece or a loudspeaker microphone is excepted, headphones are banned. The fine is EUR 250 to 1,250 and three licence points are subtracted.

RuleWhat applies
Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a carYes [1]
Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a carAllowed with limits [1]
Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car€250.00 per offence [1]
Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car3 points [1]

Notes

  • The offence is worded as use or 'continued handling' (manuseamento de forma continuada) of equipment liable to impair driving; art. 145(1)(n) lists the offence as serious (grave).
  • A single earpiece, or a microphone with loudspeaker system that needs no continued handling, is excepted; headphones are banned.
  • The fine is a range of EUR 250 to EUR 1,250 (the figure stored is the minimum). As a serious offence it can also carry the accessory sanction of a driving ban (inibição de conduzir) of 1 month to 1 year (arts 138, 147).
  • Points are subtracted when the decision becomes final (art. 148(1)).

Sources

  1. Procuradoria-Geral Distrital de Lisboa (Ministério Público), consolidated legislation: DL n.º 114/94, de 03 de Maio (Código da Estrada), versão actualizada (consulted 30 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.