December 1 — today — is the day when NSW P-Plate drivers can no longer use a mobile phone, even if it is in a proper cradle, for GPS, texting, or phone calls. The use of dedicated GPS devices in a cradle is fine.
The move came from research that proved P-Plate drivers were too tempted to use mobiles and even momentary lapses in concentration for these inexperienced drivers could dramatically increase the risk of an accident.
All the rules are here but as a service here is the only one that you need to know.
Rule number 1 – Learner, P1, and P2 drivers, must not have a mobile phone exposed in the car, on the seat, or in any cradle. If you carry a mobile phone its best to put it somewhere that you will not be tempted to use it – in a handbag, glove box, boot, etc. If a Learner and P1 driver is caught, it is four demerit points and a three-month licence suspension.
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Fully licensed drivers may use a hands-free cradle or if it is connected to a car’s Bluetooth system that allows for 100% hands off use. This includes phone, GPS, and music. In other words, “hands off.”
There is a great short explanatory video below.