Can I use my phone while cycling?
Not in your hand. § 23(1a) StVO applies to cyclists too: you may not hold a phone or other electronic device while riding to call, type or read. Use is allowed only if the device sits in a mount and you only glance at it briefly. Using a phone in your hand costs a €55 fine — €75 if you endanger others, €100 in a crash. Cyclists usually don't get a point on their record for it.
📋 The rules
- Holding a phone in your hand while riding is banned (§ 23(1a) StVO)
- Applies equally to calling, typing and reading
- Allowed only in a mount with a brief glance
- Fine: €55 · endangerment €75 · crash €100
- Cyclists usually get no point on record
🔓 Exceptions
- Device fixed in the mount, only a brief glance to operate (e.g. navigation)
- Stopped with both feet down / dismounted, use is unproblematic
- Voice control/hands-free without picking it up is allowed
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Using a phone in your hand while cycling costs €55. With endangerment it's €75, in a crash/property damage €100. Unlike in a car, cyclists usually get no point and no driving ban — but for gross endangerment the authority can review your fitness to drive.
📎 Official sources
- § 23 StVO · Other duties of vehicle drivers →
- Bußgeldkatalog · Phone on the bicycle →
- ADAC · Phone at the wheel and on the bike →
❓ Frequently asked
Can I phone while cycling?
Only if you don't hold the phone — e.g. via hands-free or with the device in a mount. Calling with the phone in your hand is banned and costs €55.
What does using a phone on the bike cost?
€55 for the basic breach, €75 if you endanger others, and €100 if it leads to a crash or property damage. Cyclists usually don't get a point on record for it.
Can I use the phone as a navi?
Yes, if it sits firmly in a mount and you only glance at it briefly. You may not pick it up to operate it — then it counts as banned use again.
Does it also apply to typing a message?
Yes. Writing or reading a message with the phone in your hand is banned and penalised like calling. Better to stop and dismount to type.
Will I get a point on record?
Usually not. For cyclists it usually stays a fine without a point. For gross endangerment the licensing authority can review fitness to drive — that's the exception.
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- “phone while cycling allowed fine”
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