Using a mobile phone while driving in Northwest Territories (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: The Northwest Territories ban hand-held electronic devices while driving; hands-free devices are allowed. The fine is CAD 322 (CAD 644 in school and construction zones) with 3 demerit points. Police must direct the driver to stop, and repeat offences lead to roadside licence suspensions.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Hands-free useUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Allowed [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | 3 points [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | 322.00 CAD per offence [3] |
Notes
- "Use" includes operating, holding or touching the device. The Act has a separate offence for use in a construction or school zone (s. 155.2(2)).
- The fine is CAD 322, or CAD 644 in school and construction zones, plus 3 demerit points.
Sources
- Department of Justice, Northwest Territories: Motor Vehicles Act, RSNWT 1988, c M-16 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Department of Justice, Northwest Territories: Driver's Licence Demerit Point Regulations (Motor Vehicles Act) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Government of the Northwest Territories, Department of Infrastructure: Distracted Driving (consulted 10 October 2026) · all sources
Northwest Territories and neighbouring provinces and territories
| Province or territory | Holding a phone while driving banned | Hands-free use | Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies) | Penalty points on the licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest Territories | Banned | Hands-free allowed | CAD 322 (CAD 644 school/work zones) | 3 points |
| Yukon | Banned | Full licence holders only | ⚠ Not yet verified | 3 demerit points |
| British Columbia | Banned | Hands-free, conditions apply | CAD 368 | 4 points |
| Alberta | Banned | Hands-free allowed | CAD 390 | 3 points |
| Saskatchewan | Banned | Voice or one touch; not for GDL | CAD 580 | 4 points |
| Nunavut | Banned (holding or using) | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
More rules in Northwest Territories
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal within limits (19+) · Growing at home: Yes, up to 4 plants per household
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 50 km/h · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 90 km/h
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (Class 5P, after a year as a learner) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15, with a supervisor (24 months' experience)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Bicycle rules · Minimum age: No minimum (12 advised)
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: No, unless the Fire Marshal authorises
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $17.20 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 19 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 19
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 19 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 19
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.05% (24-hour suspension) · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: Zero (novice, under 22)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.