"Using a Smartphone While Riding" Fines of 12,000 Yen! A Guide to the "Bicycle Blue Ticket" Introduced in April 2026 and a Comparison of Global Penalties

1. Background of the Introduction of the "Bicycle Blue Ticket"

1-1 Why the "Blue Ticket" Now?

• Approximately 70% of bicycle accident fatalities are due to "relatively minor" violations such as ignoring traffic signals or riding on the wrong side of the road.

• With the revision of the Road Traffic Act in 2024, the framework of the system will be established, and the amount will be officially decided in June 2025.asahi.com
  
  
  

1-2 Implementation Date and Target

• Implementation: April 1, 2026

• Target: 16 years and older, 113 types of minor violations (24 types such as driving under the influence remain as red tickets)asahi.com

2. List of Penalties (Excerpt)

※The amounts are the same as for mopeds. For details, refer to the appendix of the National Police Agency ordinance.watch.impress.co.jp

3. Comparison with Major Overseas Countries

4. Changes in Daily Life and Impact on Travelers Due to Law Amendments

4-1 Points Foreign Residents and Travelers Should Know

• Blue tickets cannot be paid immediately: Short-term residents must confirm post-payment and proxy payment procedures

• Strengthening of Explanation Obligations for Rental Bicycle Operators: Notices in English and Chinese are expected to increase

4-2 Alternatives to Using Smartphone Navigation

1. After confirming the routeauto-locksettings

2. Only handle mounts and voice guidance are allowed

3. Operating while stopped at a signal is a gray area; complete stop in the stop zone is safe

5. Differences in Regulatory Philosophy Between Japan and Overseas

6. Frequently Asked Q&A

Q1. What about wearing earphones in both ears?

A fine of 5,000 yen applies. Even with one earphone, if ambient sound is blocked, it is likely to be considered a violation.alc.aiotcloud.co.jp

Q2. What if a child (15 years or younger) violates the rule?

Under current law, they are subject to family court referral. Since the blue ticket is only for those 16 and older, guardians will continue to receive responsibility guidance.

Q3. Is there a relation to the obligation to join bicycle insurance?

The obligation is based on prefectural ordinances. Even after paying the blue ticket, liability for damages remains, so insurance is essential.

7. Post-interview notes and outlook

The introduction of the system is not a "fine business." Alongside the debate on sidewalk riding and infrastructure improvement, user education is essential. Taking cues from overseas examples where high fines have had a deterrent effect, in Japan, the key will be to enhance the "feeling of being caught" rather than the amount of the fine.

Travelers and residents should be aware of the "driving while distracted = immediate 12,000 yen" rule from spring 2026 onwards, and enjoy safe and comfortable cycle tourism.

【Reference Article List】

1. Asahi Shimbun "The fine amount for bicycle blue tickets to be introduced from April 1 next year has been officially decided" 2025-06-17 asahi.com

2. Impress Watch "Bicycle fines, 12,000 yen for using a smartphone while riding from April 2026" 2025-05-30 watch.impress.co.jp

3. Fietsboetes 2025 (Netherlands) Rate Table 2025-04 blog.gsmpunt.nl

4. Bussgeldkatalog.org "Using a mobile phone on a bicycle" 2025 Edition bussgeldkatalog.org

5. Singapore Police Press Release "Using a mobile device while riding" 2024-10-08 police.gov.sg

6. Cyclescheme UK "Is it legal to use your phone on your bike?" 2025-03 cyclescheme.co.uk

7. Eltin Cycling "2025 Cycling Regulations: Avoid Fines and Stay Safe" 2025-02 eltincycling.com

8. CCW Lawyers "Bicycle Laws in California 2021" Updated 2025 ccwlawyers.com