Confusion grows over what drivers can really wear behind the wheel

You've probably seen the headlines about hefty fines for wearing wireless earbuds while driving, or perhaps you've heard conflicting advice from family members. The truth about using AirPods and similar devices behind the wheel is more nuanced than you might think—and unfortunately, there's been some misleading information circulating online.

Let's cut through the confusion and get to the facts that matter for Australian drivers, particularly those over 60 who want to stay safe and legal on the road.

'We advise against the use of headphones or playing loud music as this may distract you and limit your ability to hear emergency vehicle sirens'

The real legal situation (not the scare stories)

Despite recent online claims about a supposed 'October 2025 nationwide ban' on earbuds while driving, there is no law which specifically prohibits wearing them while operating a car, and there are no specific state or federal road laws that prevent drivers from wearing headphones or earbuds while using a motor vehicle.

However, this doesn't mean you're completely in the clear. Wearing headphones while driving isn't technically illegal, but it could still land you in hot water.

The key issue is distracted driving. If police determine that your earbuds contributed to unsafe driving, you can face significant penalties under general road safety laws that require drivers to maintain proper control of their vehicles.

What the penalties actually look like across Australia

New South Wales

In NSW, you can listen to music directly into your ears while driving, provided you don't violate NSW Road Rule 297 (1), which requires a driver to have proper control of the vehicle. If you're caught not having control of your car, you could face three demerits and a $481 fine.

For provisional drivers, it's a different story entirely. They face fines of $1,209 and 4 demerit points for any mobile phone-related offences, which can include connected wireless headphones.

Victoria

Motorists who don't adhere to the law in Victoria will face an instant $484 fine and four demerit points. Learner, P1 and P2 drivers are prohibited from using any hand-held or hands-free mobile phone while driving.

Queensland

Queensland's rules mirror those of other states: it's not illegal to wear headphones, but you must maintain control of your vehicle.

If deemed out of control or driving carelessly, you could be fined up to $619 and receive three demerits. In an active school zone, this increases to four demerits and a $603 fine.

South Australia

South Australia's Australian Road Rules Rule 300 (Use of Mobile Phones) explicitly says wearing and using wireless earbuds and headphones is allowed for full licence holders.

In 2019, South Australia increased the penalty for mobile phone use (which applies to wireless headsets) by nearly 40 per cent to $534 and three demerit points, plus a compulsory $60 Victims of Crime Levy compensation fine.

Why this particularly matters for senior drivers

As we age, our hearing and reaction times naturally change, making the decision to wear earbuds while driving more complex than it might be for younger drivers.

The use of devices like AirPods or Bluetooth earbuds can impact a driver's ability to hear essential external sounds, such as sirens or traffic alerts.

For seniors who may already experience some hearing loss, blocking additional sound with earbuds can create a dangerous situation. You might miss crucial audio cues like:

• Emergency vehicle sirens approaching from behind
• Car horns from other drivers
• The sound of your own engine indicating mechanical problems
• Pedestrians calling out warnings

The insurance angle most people forget

While not widely discussed, using earbuds during an accident could potentially affect insurance claims.

If an insurer can demonstrate that your earbuds contributed to the incident—perhaps you didn't hear another car's horn—it could impact claim outcomes.

Safer alternatives that work well for seniors

Rather than risk potential fines or safety issues, consider these senior-friendly alternatives:

Built-in car systems

Most cars manufactured after 2015 have Bluetooth capability. While it might take a bit of getting used to, connecting your phone directly to your car's system provides the safest hands-free experience.

Portable Bluetooth speakers

Portable speakers are on the rise in Australia and are relatively inexpensive. There is a wide range of speakers you can get which will play music off your phone or music player. You can connect your speakers to your phone using a cable or via bluetooth.

Single earbud approach

If you do choose to use wireless earbuds, it's always safer to use one earbud or opt for hands-free systems to ensure compliance with Australian road safety laws. This maintains some awareness of your surroundings while still allowing hands-free communication.

The enforcement reality

Wearing earbuds could constitute distracted driving depending on how a police officer interprets your circumstances. Authorities have the power to pull motorists aside and impose an immediate fine for driver distraction.

The practical reality is that police use considerable discretion in these situations. In the event you're pulled over, it's a good idea to take headphones off before talking to police. Nothing smacks of 'reckless driver' more than rolling down your window with headphones on.

Beware of misinformation

Recently, several websites have been spreading false claims about a supposed 'October 2025 nationwide ban' on earbuds while driving, complete with fabricated fines of $350-$600.

This appears to be misinformation, as there is no law which specifically prohibits wearing them while operating a car, and traffic cameras will not take a picture of your car if you're seen to be wearing headphones.

Always check official government transport department websites or consult with legal professionals for accurate, up-to-date information about road rules.

The bottom line for senior drivers

While you won't be automatically fined for wearing AirPods while driving, the risks—both legal and safety-related—make it worth considering alternatives. The decision to drive with headphones should come down to common sense.

[pIf your headphones or earbuds distract you and limit your control over the vehicle, you are putting yourself and others at risk.[/p]

For senior drivers who value both safety and staying connected, investing time in learning your car's built-in systems or using a quality portable speaker can provide the best of both worlds—hands-free functionality without compromising your awareness of the road environment.

What's your experience with hands-free technology in your car? Have you found any particular systems or devices that work well for staying connected while keeping safety as the top priority? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.