Get started with Google Assistant driving mode

Assistant driving mode helps you get things done while you navigate with Google Maps. With Assistant driving mode you can read and send messages, make calls, and control media with your voice, without leaving Google Maps navigation.

Important: This feature is only available in English in the US.

What you need

An Android phone with:

• Android Version 9.0 or higher
• 4GB RAM or more
• Portrait mode only

Optional:

• Turn Assistant notifications on to get message notifications. 
• Grant device contacts permissions to make calls and send messages to your contacts.

Tip: For your safety and convenience, dock your phone while in Assistant driving mode.

Opt into driving mode

Before you use driving mode for the first time, you must opt in.

1. On your Android phone, say "Hey Google, open Assistant settings" or go to Assistant settings.
2. Tap Getting around > Driving mode.
3. Turn Driving mode On.

Start driving mode

1. On your Android phone, open the Google Maps app .
2. Search for your destination or tap it on the map.
3. Tap Start.

Tip: You can also say, “Hey Google, navigate to [destination].”

What you can ask Assistant driving mode

Tip: To use commands, you can either say “Hey Google,” or before you speak, tap Microphone .

• Make a call: Say “Make a call” or “Call [contact].”
• Answer a call: Assistant will say “Call from [contact], do you want to pick it up?” 
• Send a message: "Send a message to [contact]” or “Send a message.”
• Get your messages: “Read my messages.”
• Listen to music: “Play [artist],” or “Play [genre].” 
  • Learn more about how to use music commands.

Use App Launcher

App Launcher gives you quick access to apps you can use while you drive, like YouTube Music, Google Podcasts, or other music providers.

Important: Recommendations given by apps like Spotify or Pandora are based on your history in those apps, not Google.

1. Start driving mode in the Google Maps app .
2. In driving mode, at the bottom right, tap App Launcher . 
3. Tap an app.

Access settings

Important: If you turn on call settings for driving mode, incoming calls will automatically be announced.

You can manage driving related settings for Assistant, turn driving mode on or off, and have Assistant manage your incoming calls and read and reply to your messages while driving. 

1. On your Android phone, say "Hey Google, open Assistant settings" or go to Assistant settings.
2. Tap Getting around > Driving mode. 

Tip: You can also access settings in driving mode or the Google Maps app. 

• Settings through driving mode: Tap App Launcher  > Settings .
• Settings through the Google Maps app: Tap Your profile picture or initial > Settings > Navigation settings > Google Assistant settings.