At least 7.5 million UK drivers admit to illegally using their mobile phone while driving running the risk of adding hundreds to their insurance premiums. New research has found the astonishing levels of law-breaking taking place every day on UK roads with 18% of drivers admitting to using their phones when behind the wheel – even though they know it’s illegal.
And the study by comparison website MoneySuperMarket reveals how car insurance premiums can differ hugely between drivers with mobile phone offences, and those without. On top of the 18% making calls at least 26% admit to checking their messages or notifications when they stop in traffic. 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.
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, Car Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket said: “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.”
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