Note: This article was updated on March 16, 2015. Previously, it was written that using of phones and tablets at the red light is illegal. But this is inaccurate.

On Sept 8, 2014, changes to the Road Traffic Act were passed into law.

Added to the act were a wider range of mobile devices, as well as heavier penalties for offenders.

Come Feb. 1, 2015, it will be illegal for drivers to hold any type of mobile device while driving. Previously, only calling or texting someone on a mobile phone was barred.

In the past two years, the number of summonses for using a mobile phone while driving increased 20 percent from 2,938 in 2012 to 3,572 in 2013.

Here are 4 areas of what constitutes legal or illegal that all drivers in Singapore should know about:

1. Phones AND tablets illegal

Anyone caught using and holding a mobile device, a phone, tablet or hand-held equipment designed or capable of being used for telecommunications while driving, can be found guilty of committing an offence.

2. Okay to use at the red light

The new changes to the law mean that it is illegal to surf the web, visit social media sites such as Facebook and download material while driving.

However, it is not illegal to use and hold a device when the car is stationary at the red light. This law applies only to holding a mobile device when the vehicle is moving.

3. Exceptions made if device is mounted

The amended law applies to drivers holding a device, but it is not an offence to use the mobile device if it is mounted on a holder.

4. Wearables are excluded

Wearable technology such as the Google Glass and smart watches are not covered in the amended law.

But violations can still be classified as inconsiderate driving, an offence which carries up to a $1,000 fine and a six-month jail term.

First-time offenders can be fined up to $1,000 and/or jailed for up to six months. Repeat offenders face up to $2,000 in fines and/or up to 12 months in jail.

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