Can P-platers use Apple CarPlay?

Apple CarPlay is a great addition to modern cars, making life easier without touching your phone while driving. However, it is against the law for some novice drivers.

In New South Wales, it is illegal for a P-plater to have their phone connected to their head unit via Apple CarPlay.

According to the Service NSW website, “[Learner, P1 and P2 drivers] must not use a mobile phone while driving, even when you’re stationary, for example, stopped at lights or stuck in traffic. This includes texting, phone calls, music, emailing, social media, using the internet, maps and navigation or photography.

“This applies to mobile phones that are handheld, in a phone holder or hands-free, for example, via Bluetooth.”

That means you cannot connect your phone to any radio via an AUX cable, Bluetooth, or Apple CarPlay.

If provisional drivers are caught with their phones connected to their head unit, they will face a fine of $387, or $514 if the offence is detected in a school zone, and five demerit points. That is an instant license suspension for learner and P1 drivers, while it’s the majority of your point limit if you are a P2 driver.