What the law forbids exactly
Article R412-6-1 of the Highway Code bans "using a hand-held phone" and wearing "any device able to emit sound" to the ear (wired or Bluetooth solo earpieces). Even stopped at a red light, the car is deemed to be in circulation if the engine is running.
What is allowed
Integrated hands-free systems
The vehicle's Bluetooth (speaker + mic) is legal. Use must stay occasional and not distract. Favour passive calls (answer without handling).
Navigation and music
A GPS or CarPlay/Android Auto on the central screen is tolerated as long as you don't handle the phone. If you touch the phone's screen while driving: offence.
2026 penalties
Simple use at the wheel
Fixed fine of €135 (reduced €90), 3 points off. No automatic suspension but possible summons on repeat.
Phone + another offence
Since the 2020 law, if you commit another offence AT THE SAME TIME (crossing a solid line, red light, priority breach...), the prefect may now immediately suspend your licence up to 6 months. This is the key change to know.
Recent case law (2024-2026)
Cass. crim. 2024: phone in hand at red light
The Court of Cassation confirmed that checking a message at a red light with the engine running is an offence, even with the vehicle stopped. Only "non-circulation" stops (car park, emergency lane, shoulder) are tolerated.
2025 ruling: Bluetooth earpiece with a single earbud
The Paris Court of Appeal sentenced a driver using only one AirPod earbud, confirming a broad reading: as soon as a device is worn at the ear (wired or not), it's punishable.
2026 ruling: smartwatches and calls
New case law in 2026: taking a call by speaking into an Apple Watch or Galaxy Watch at the wheel is considered "use of a device held to the ear". Stay vigilant.
Practical cases
I answer a call while driving via my car's Bluetooth
Allowed, as long as you don't touch the smartphone and it stays inside the cabin (not on your lap). Pressing the steering-wheel button to answer is legal.
Phone on my thigh in Bluetooth with GPS active
Since 2024 the phone is deemed "handled" as soon as it is held in the hand or sat on the lap in an active-use position. Fix it on a dedicated mount (vent, windscreen) to stay legal.
Next step
How to get the right support?
DevisPermis.fr connects you for free with a certified driving school near you. Answer 5 questions in 2 minutes, and an advisor will call you back within 48h* to offer a tailored package.
Discuss it for free*Excluding Sundays and public holidays