Phone while driving: are hands-free and earpieces allowed?

Article 173 prohibits using phones and devices that require the hands, even temporarily, while driving; it permits hands-free or earpiece use if hands remain free and hearing is adequate.

The ban covers manual use while driving

Article 173 prohibits a driver from using a phone or similar device while the vehicle is moving when it requires even temporarily taking a hand off the steering wheel. Holding the phone, tapping to dial or reading a message while driving is not made legal because the car is moving slowly. Avoid interacting with a device even when traffic is crawling and the vehicle has not been safely parked.

The rule permits a hands-free device or an earpiece if the driver has adequate hearing in both ears and the equipment does not require the hands to operate. The distinction concerns how the device is used, not its brand: connect it before setting off and do not handle the phone while in motion.

Set up communication before departure

If you need to call or answer, use the vehicle's hands-free system or a permitted earpiece and keep control of the drive. If the conversation distracts you, end it and stop where parking is allowed and safe. A dashboard mount does not permit typing or checking messages; the rule concerns the driver's action even when the screen is fixed in place.

For example, you can start navigation or a call before moving; if you need to enter a new destination, pull over and stop safely before using the screen. The hands-free exception does not make every phone interaction safe. Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps study B theory with quizzes, explanations and error review, but it cannot replace careful driving or monitor phone use.

Quiz Patente Ufficiale helps review B theory with quizzes, chapters, explanations and error review; it does not monitor phone use.