Maps via phone are about to lose an entry point generation of drivers to devices like TomTom in NSW

[PaulPavlinovich]

The roads body of NSW Australia has just banned Learner and Provisional drivers (first two years of their driving) from using a phone at all in their car including for navigation. This will force these users to navigation devices which are still allowed. Google Maps will lose an entry generation in this state and might want to consider the device market. Hard to get them back once you've lost them.

http://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/stayingsafe/mobilephones/know-the-rules.html 

If caught Learners and first year provisional will lose their license for three months. Second years will lose over half their demerit points.

Other states are likely to copy NSW lead.

[YK1001]

Hi @PaulPavlinovich,

Can you give more details about the restriction?

In HK, drivers can use devices as long as it is not being hand held by the driver.

[PaulPavlinovich · Accepted solution]

Hi @YK1001 the complete details are in the linked article. Basically (this varies by state) drivers start on an L plate for 120 hours then after testing progress to red P plates for a year then green P plates. The first three categories have various restrictions in addition to normal license requirements. People who lose their license and regain it come back on a green P plate usually for a time decided by the judge.

For the three restricted levels in all states of Australia you can use a phone hands free except New South Wales (and you can bet the others will do it too) now will not allow a mobile phone to be in the car turned on. You can carry it in the car but it has to be off.

[YK1001]

Thank you, @PaulPavlinovich!