Put your phone down: Singapore proposes road law that could penalise you for holding any mobile communication device while driving

SINGAPORE, July 8 — Motorists may soon be penalised simply for holding their mobile phones while driving, under legislative changes tabled in Singapore's Parliament yesterday.

According to The Straits Times, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the current law requires proof that a driver was using a device — such as texting, calling or operating apps — while holding it. This makes enforcement difficult, as officers must manually verify that the driver was actively operating the phone.

The proposed Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill removes that requirement. If passed, it will be an offence for a driver to hold any mobile communication device while the vehicle is moving, regardless of whether the device is being used. The definition covers mobile phones, tablets, wireless handheld gadgets and communication‑capable wearables such as smartwatches.

MHA said drivers typically hold devices with the intention to operate or move them, actions that should only be done when the vehicle is stationary. “There is no reason for a driver to hold a handphone while the vehicle is in motion,” the ministry noted, adding that doing so risks distraction and endangers other road users.

Smartwatches, mounted devices and public submissions

Tapping on a smartwatch will not constitute an offence if the device is worn normally. However, holding a smartwatch in hand while driving would be treated the same as holding a phone.

The Bill also expands enforcement tools. Traffic Police will be able to act on camera footage or photos and videos submitted by the public, which MHA says will improve detection. Currently, a photo of a driver holding a phone is insufficient to prove an offence, as officers must show the device was being used.

Mounted devices remain allowed, and drivers may hold their phones when the vehicle is completely stationary.

Existing penalties and enforcement trends

Singapore tightened rules in 2014 to outlaw holding and using any mobile communication device while driving, covering activities from calling and texting to browsing websites and social media. Between 2021 and 2025, about 2,800 motorists a year were issued summonses for such offences, according to a written reply by Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam.

First‑time offenders face up to S$1,000 (RM3,152) in fines or six months’ jail, while repeat offenders may be fined up to S$2,000 or jailed up to 12 months. The offence carries 12 demerit points, with higher fines and additional points for violations in school zones, silver zones and Friendly Streets.

MHA added that even when using mounted devices, drivers may still be liable for driving without due care or attention, depending on the circumstances.