A young provisional driver in New South Wales has been left baffled after receiving a hefty fine for using Bluetooth hands-free technology while driving—a rule many P-platers are unaware of.
The motorist, who holds a provisional licence, was slapped with a penalty for connecting their phone via Bluetooth to play music, believing it complied with road rules. However, NSW law prohibits P1 and P2 drivers from using any function of a mobile phone while behind the wheel, including hands-free calls or music streaming.
Why Are P-Platers Banned from Bluetooth?
Unlike fully licensed drivers, who can use hands-free technology, provisional licence holders face stricter restrictions to minimise distractions. The NSW government states that P1 and P2 drivers must not touch or interact with a phone in any way—even if it's mounted or connected via Bluetooth.
What Are the Penalties?
- Fine: Up to $362 (and 4 demerit points) for using a phone illegally.
- Double demerits: Penalties increase during holiday periods.
- Licence suspension: Repeat offenders risk losing their licence.
Many young drivers assume Bluetooth is allowed, but the law makes no exceptions. Police can issue fines if they observe a P-plater interacting with their phone, even if it's just to skip a song.
How Can P-Platers Stay Legal?
- Use a passenger: Let them control music or navigation.
- Pre-set playlists: Avoid touching your phone entirely.
- Pull over safely: If you need to adjust settings, stop first.
Experts urge provisional drivers to familiarise themselves with all road rules, as ignorance is no excuse. With increasing enforcement, this obscure law could catch out many unsuspecting motorists.
