Thousands of drivers across Spain could face hefty fines simply because of where they place their mobile phone holder inside the car, according to warnings from the Spanish traffic authority (DGT).
While phone mounts remain legal, traffic authorities say motorists risk penalties if the device blocks their view of the road. Windscreen-mounted holders have become a particular focus for officers, with drivers facing fines of up to €200 if the placement is considered dangerous.
Under Spain’s traffic regulations, drivers must maintain a clear field of vision at all times and avoid anything that could distract them or obstruct awareness of the road ahead. That means a phone holder attached to the windscreen — even if used for navigation — could lead to punishment if police believe it interferes with visibility.
There is no official list of banned phone mounts, meaning officers decide on a case-by-case basis whether a holder poses a safety risk. Factors such as the size of the device, where it is positioned and how much of the windscreen it covers can all influence whether a fine is issued.
Road safety experts recommend using air vent mounts or low-position dashboard holders instead, as these are considered less intrusive and keep the driver’s direct line of sight clear. The advice comes as many drivers continue relying on smartphones for GPS directions, particularly in older vehicles without built-in systems such as Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
The DGT has also reminded drivers that physically touching a mobile phone while driving carries even tougher penalties. Using the screen while behind the wheel — including while stopped at traffic lights — can result in a €200 fine and the loss of six licence points under Spain’s strict anti-distraction rules.