Can You Use a Walkie-Talkie or Two-Way Radio While Driving in the UK?
Using communication devices while driving is a subject of legal and safety concern. While it is widely known that using a hand-held mobile phone is illegal in the UK, the rules surrounding walkie-talkies and two-way radios are slightly different. Understanding these regulations is essential to ensure compliance and road safety.
The Law on Using Walkie-Talkies While Driving
According to UK law, holding and using a mobile phone, sat nav, or any device that can send or receive data while driving is illegal. This includes texting, making calls, or browsing the web. However, two-way radio equipment is not explicitly banned under the same legislation—provided the device does not have mobile phone functionality.
Key Legal Considerations
Two-way radios are exempt from mobile phone driving laws unless they also function as a mobile phone.
If a device is dual-purpose (i.e. both a radio and a mobile phone, for example the Hytera PDC680), using it while driving is illegal.
Police can still stop you if they believe your use of a radio is distracting you from driving safely.
While dedicated two-way radios are legal, drivers must ensure they do not compromise vehicle control or road safety.
Safe Use of Two-Way Radios While Driving
Even though two-way radios are legally allowed, safety should always come first. Here are some best practices:
- Use Hands-Free Solutions
Holding and operating a radio while driving can be distracting. Using a hands-free kit, such as the Motorola TLK 100 hands-free car kit, allows safe communication without taking your hands off the wheel.
- Keep Conversations Short and Essential
Avoid long or complex conversations that can take your attention away from the road.
- Integrate Radios with Vehicle Communication Systems
Devices like the Motorola TLK 150 are designed for vehicle use, featuring one-button push-to-talk (PTT) operation to improve safety.
Chat-Com’s Long-Range Two-Way Radio Solutions for Vehicles
If your business relies on reliable communication while on the move, Chat-Com offers a range of long-range two-way radios that are ideal for fleet and mobile teams.
WAVE PTX TLK 100 – Safe, Hands-Free Communication
The Motorola WAVE PTX TLK 100 is a lightweight and rugged two-way radio that uses 3G, 4G, and Wi-Fi connectivity to provide seamless broadband communication across the UK and Europe.
Slim and durable – Built to withstand everyday knocks and drops.
Network flexibility – Seamless coverage across multiple mobile networks and Wi-Fi.
Hands-free car kit available – Ensures safe operation while driving with a single-hand PTT button.
WAVE PTX TLK 150 – The Ideal Vehicle Radio
For businesses that require dedicated in-vehicle communication, the TLK 150 is a perfect solution.
Quick deployment – No need for costly infrastructure or radio licensing.
Seamless integration – Works with existing MOTOTRBO, LMR, and smartphone systems.
One-button operation – Keeps drivers focused while allowing clear communication.
Pre-installed WAVE PTX App – Ready to use straight out of the box.
Expand Your Network with WAVE PTX – The WAVE PTX system allows teams to combine:
TLK handsets
WAVE PTX smartphone apps
Traditional Motorola radios
This ensures seamless communication between teams in the field, vehicles, and remote workers. You can also integrate WAVE PTX with your existing MOTOTRBO network using a WAVE PTX Gateway, enabling multiple concurrent conversations across different systems.
In summary, while two-way radios can be legally used while driving in the UK, safety should always be the priority. Using hands-free solutions, such as the TLK 100 hands-free kit or the TLK 150, ensures compliance while maintaining effective communication.
For businesses requiring long-range two-way radios for fleet communication, Chat-Com provides tailored solutions to keep your team connected safely and efficiently.
