Last updated on October 26, 2025
No, using a mobile phone while driving in Japan is prohibited unless the vehicle is completely stopped. The Road Traffic Act imposes strict penalties for handheld use or screen attention while driving.
Why Japan Says No to Phones Behind the Wheel
In Japan, where precision and safety are cultural cornerstones, the rules of the road are no exception. Whether you’re cruising through Tokyo’s neon-lit streets or navigating the serene countryside, one thing remains constant: your mobile phone must stay out of your hands while driving.
The Japanese Road Traffic Act makes it clear—drivers must not use handheld mobile devices or gaze at screens while operating a vehicle. This includes smartphones, car navigation systems, and any other image-displaying devices. The law was tightened in December 2019 to address the growing number of accidents linked to distracted driving.
The Law in Action
According to Article 71 of the Road Traffic Act, drivers are prohibited from using wireless communication devices unless the vehicle is stopped. This means no texting, calling, or checking maps while in motion. The only exception is in emergencies, such as calling for help in a medical or safety crisis.
The penalties are steep. If a driver is caught holding a phone while driving, they face up to six months in prison or a fine of up to 100,000 yen. If the phone use leads to a traffic hazard—like causing an accident—the punishment increases to one year in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen. In both cases, drivers also receive demerit points, which can lead to license suspension.
Culture of Compliance
Japan’s approach to traffic safety is deeply rooted in its social norms. Respect for rules and consideration for others are central values, and this extends to driving behavior. Public campaigns regularly remind drivers of the dangers of “nagare sumaho”—a term for using smartphones while driving.
Police enforcement is rigorous. In 2024 alone, over 200,000 citations were issued for mobile phone violations. Authorities also collaborate with local governments and media outlets to promote awareness, especially among younger drivers who statistically account for a higher share of phone-related accidents.
Technology vs. Safety
While Japan is a tech-savvy nation, it draws a firm line when technology interferes with safety. Drivers are encouraged to use hands-free systems only when absolutely necessary, and even then, caution is advised. Many vehicles come equipped with “drive mode” settings that disable notifications and calls while in motion.
For those relying on navigation, the law permits glancing at built-in systems—provided they meet specific regulatory standards and do not distract the driver. But prolonged attention to any screen is considered a violation.
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Sources
Stop Using Your Smartphone, Cellphone, etc., While Driving!
https://www.npa.go.jp/english/bureau/traffic/document/02_StopUsingYourSmartphoneCellphoneetcWhileDriving.pdf
Ongoing
やめよう！運転中のスマートフォン・携帯電話等使用｜警察庁Webサイト
https://www.npa.go.jp/bureau/traffic/keitai/info.html
Ongoing