Last week, a flurry of TikTok videos sent tens of thousands into a frenzy with claims that the Department of Transport was set to outlaw the use of GPS apps on smartphones while driving from 2026. The viral videos warned that using apps like Google Maps could land drivers with a hefty £200 fine and six points on their licence.
The clips even went as far as claiming that motorists would no longer be allowed to even have their phones mounted on dashboards, and couldn’t use voice commands or hands-free features within the apps.
But the Department of Transport has put the brakes on these rumours, confirming to MoneySuperMarket that there’s no truth to them. It clarified: “While it is illegal to hold or use a phone whilst driving, you can use devices with hands-free access, as long as you do not hold them at any time.
“There has been no change of rules around this, as suggested by this online video.”
Alicia Hempsted, car insurance guru at MoneySuperMarket, added: “Incorrect information can spread quickly on social media, so fact checking what you hear, particularly about important topics like road safety, is crucial. We’re grateful to the Department of Transport for clarifying that there are no plans to change the rules for sat nav use.
“This means that you can use your phone as a sat nav, but it must be secured in a fixed mount, and you must not touch it any point while driving. Also, the mount you use for your phone must not block the driver’s view of the road ahead.”
While no changes to the current rules are planned, stringent restrictions do remain in place regarding the use of phones and devices while driving, even if it is to use these apps.
Currently, it’s illegal to hold or handle a mobile phone, sat nav, or smart device while driving or supervising a learner, even when the vehicle is stationary. This includes minor interactions with your device, like scrolling through options, checking traffic alerts, or inputting new destinations.
However, you are allowed to use your smartphone or sat nav while driving provided there’s no physical contact with the device during your journey and it is mounted securely, allowing for hands-free operation such as voice commands.
The Highway Code states: “You can get six penalty points and a £200 fine if you hold and use a phone, sat nav, tablet, or any device that can send and receive data while driving or riding a motorcycle. You’ll also lose your licence if you passed your driving test in the last two years.
“You can get three penalty points if you do not have a full view of the road and traffic ahead or proper control of the vehicle.”
Should the matter reach court, motorists face a driving ban alongside a maximum penalty of £1,000 – rising to £2,500 for those behind the wheel of a lorry or bus.