Stay safe and avoid heavy fines. Learn about Singapore's new laws on holding your phone while driving and how to stay compliant on the road.

The new zero-tolerance approach to phone use

Road safety in Singapore has become a top priority for the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Traffic Police (TP). To curb distracted driving, the Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill was tabled in Parliament in 2026, signalling a shift toward a zero-tolerance stance on mobile device use behind the wheel.

Traffic fatalities rose sharply in 2025, and injury accidents remain high. The authorities are tightening the rules so every driver's focus stays on the road. For anyone using car rental Singapore services, understanding these rules is essential to avoiding heavy fines and keeping your driving record clean.

What exactly is the new law?

Previously, to convict a driver of a mobile phone offence, the authorities had to prove three things: the vehicle was in motion, the driver was holding the device, and the driver was actively using a communication function (such as texting or calling).

Under the 2026 amendments, the requirement to prove "usage" has been removed. Simply holding a mobile communication device — smartphones, tablets, and even smartwatches not worn on the wrist — while the vehicle is in motion is now an offence.

Key facts about the amendment

Holding is enough: you don't need to be typing or talking. If the phone is in your hand while the car moves, you are liable.
Enforcement cameras: the TP now uses high-definition cameras and automated systems to detect offenders, and can act on video evidence submitted by the public.
Stationary exception: it is not an offence to hold your phone if the vehicle is completely stationary (such as at a red light), but the MHA strongly advises against it as it still lowers situational awareness.

Penalties and demerit points: what's at stake

Singapore's penalties for distracted driving are among the strictest in the region. If you are caught holding a phone while driving:

First-time offenders: a fine of up to $1,000 and/or jail of up to 6 months
Repeat offenders: fines up to $2,000 and/or jail up to 12 months
Demerit points: a standard offence carries 12 demerit points, with more in School Zones and Silver Zones

For drivers on a P-Plate car rental, those 12 points are especially dangerous. New drivers are allowed only 12 demerit points in their first year — a single phone offence could revoke your licence immediately.

Special considerations for PHV and long-term renters

If you are on a PHV rental, your phone is your livelihood — navigating and accepting jobs tempts you to touch the screen. With camera-based enforcement, the risk of losing your vocational licence is higher than ever. Use a proper mount and voice controls.

For monthly car rental commuters, make sure the vehicle is set up for hands-free use. Our team — including Ryan and Brandon — always recommends clients check their phone mounts before heading out.

Safe driving practices: how to stay compliant

You can still use your phone for navigation or music — you just have to change how you use it.

Use a secure mount: a phone mounted on a dashboard or windscreen holder is legal, as long as it doesn't obstruct your view
Voice commands: use Apple CarPlay, Android Auto or Bluetooth to change destination or reply to messages without taking your hands off the wheel
Set up before moving: set your GPS and playlist while the car is in 'Park' — at home, the carpark, or before a Malaysia car rental trip to JB
Wear your tech: keep a smartwatch strapped to your wrist. Holding it to read a notification is now treated the same as holding a smartphone

Frequently asked questions

Can I hold my phone at a red light? Technically it's not an offence while completely stationary, but it's strongly discouraged — it still lowers your awareness and the lights can change any moment.

Is a mounted phone legal? Yes. A phone in a proper dashboard or windscreen mount is fine, provided it doesn't block your view of the road.

How many demerit points for holding a phone while driving? 12 for a standard offence — more in School or Silver Zones. For a P-Plate driver that's enough to revoke your licence.

Does this apply to PHV / Grab drivers? Yes, and the stakes are higher — a conviction can affect your vocational licence. Use a mount and voice controls.

Conclusion

Singapore's road-safety rules are evolving to meet the digital age. Keep your hands on the wheel and your eyes on the road — it protects you, your passengers and your licence. AKA Car Rental has operated since 2015 and served over 700 customers, and our team — Ryan, Brandon, Yong and Rachel — is here to help you stay safe on every trip.