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Motorists who use mobile phones while driving will face fines of up to £1,000.
Website Ananova reports that initially offenders will be subject to a £30 fine, but this can be increased to a maximum of £1,000 if the matter goes to court.
The planned legislation will take effect from December 1 and see drivers get three points on their licence each time they are caught holding a phone.
Road Safety Minister David Jamieson said research shows that driving and using a mobile phone meant motorists are four times more as likely to have an accident.
Hands-free calls were also distracting and still put drivers at risk, he said.
