YOUNG and inexperienced drivers are being warned that one mistake could cost them their licence when new rules on mobile phone punishments come into force tomorrow.

Drivers caught on the phone behind the wheel will face stiffer penalties from March 1.

They will be slapped with a £200 fine and will also now be handed six points – enough for those who have had their licence less than two years to have it revoked.

If this happens the driver will have to apply and pay for a new provisional licence, and pass both the theory and practical parts of your test all over again.

Nick Lloyd, road safety manager for RoSPA, said: “Taking your theory and practical driving tests can be an expensive and stressful time, so imagine having to go through it all again for one moment of stupidity.

“We understand how difficult it can be to ignore your mobile phone, but there’s not a single reason that will excuse putting people’s lives at risk, and hopefully these new stricter penalties will mean drivers think twice.”

Use of a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel will be punished whether the driver is making a call, using it on loudspeaker, texting, filming, taking a picture or using the internet, and the law applies even when they are sitting stationary in traffic.

While the use of hands-free kits is legal, RoSPA advises that not even this should be attempted while driving.

Although the driver will not be taking your eyes off the road, merely engaging in a conversation will mean that their attention is elsewhere and not fully on the road and the environment around them, and if their driving is affected they could be charged with “not being in proper control of your vehicle”.