Young and inexperienced drivers face being banned for using a mobile phone at the wheel when new laws come into force tomorrow.

New drivers are being warned they will lose their license if they use their device just once as authorities look to crackdown on offenders.

Those caught who have had their licences less than two years will have it revoked.

Meanwhile penalties for all drivers caught using their handsets in the car are doubling.

Under the new laws, offenders will be handed six penalty points rather than three and a £200 fine instead of the former £100 fine.

Novice drivers who lose their licences will have to apply and pay for a new provisional license and pass both the theory and practical parts of the test all over again.

Under the law, use of a handheld mobile phone behind the wheel will be punished whether a driver is making a call, using it on loudspeaker, texting, filming, taking a picture or using the internet.

The law also applies when drivers are sitting stationary in traffic.

While the use of hand free kits is legal, RoSPA advises that not even this should be attempted while driving.