Using a mobile phone while driving in Alabama (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Physically holding a phone or reading, writing or sending text while driving is prohibited, and an offence arises when the driver is observed swerving or leaving the lane without signalling. Hands-free voice use is allowed. A first conviction carries a fine of up to USD 50 and one point. Stage II licence holders (young drivers) may not use any handheld communication device.
| 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 | 1 points [1] |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Writing, sending or reading text-based communication on a device is an offence only when the driver is also observed crossing lanes without signalling, swerving or otherwise driving in an impaired manner. Voice-to-text and navigation use are exempt. [1] |
| Learner and newly qualified driversUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Holders of a Stage II restricted licence (from 16, until 18 or six months of licence at 17) must not use any handheld communication device while driving. A citation for this restriction is issued only if the driver is stopped for a separate violation; no points apply, but the restricted period is extended by six months or until age 18. [2] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | ⚠ Not yet verified |
Notes
- The offence in section 32-5A-350.1(c) applies when the driver is observed crossing in and out of a traffic lane without a signal, swerving or otherwise driving in an impaired manner while holding a device. The text is that of the enrolled Act 2023-459; later amendments were not checked.
- Earpiece, headphone, steering-wheel controls, speaker phone, voice-activated technology and a device mounted to the vehicle are allowed. For drivers aged 18 or over a mounted device may be touched if it does not obstruct the view; more than a single button or swipe to start or end a voice call is an offence.
- One point for a first conviction, two for a second and three for a third or subsequent conviction (section 32-5A-351). No points apply to a warning.
- Under section 32-5A-350.1(c) texting, like holding a phone, is an offence only together with observed lane crossing without a signal, swerving or other impaired driving. A first charge for holding a phone can be dismissed in court on proof of buying a hands-free device.
- Maximum for a first conviction within 24 months: USD 50 (USD 100 for a second, USD 150 for a third or later). The court sets the amount up to that cap and may not assess court costs.
Sources
- Alabama Legislature: SB301 Enrolled (Act 2023-459): new Section 32-5A-350.1 and amended Section 32-5A-351 (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency: Graduated Driver License (consulted 10 October 2026) · all sources
Alabama and neighbouring states
| State | Holding a phone while driving banned | Hands-free use | Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies) | Penalty points on the licence |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | Banned (offence needs erratic driving) | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Florida | Using a mobile phone while driving a car: Texting only Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: Banned in school and work zones | Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: Hands-free allowed | USD 30 (texting) | Using a mobile phone while driving a car: ⚠ Not yet verified Using a mobile phone while driving a car, School and work zones: 3 points |
| Georgia | Banned | Hands-free allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | 1 point |
| Tennessee | Banned | Allowed | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
More rules in Alabama
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Criminal offence (Class A misdemeanor) · Growing at home: No (felony)
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 30 mph (urban districts) · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (Stage II restricted licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (Stage I learner's permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Class 1-3, bicycle rules · Minimum age: Class 3: 16
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (Class C consumer fireworks) · Minimum age to buy: 16 (younger with an adult)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Firearms only; no knife carry offence read · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: No state minimum wage law · Current adult minimum wage (gross): Federal $7.25 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes (secondary enforcement)
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 21+ (purchase, consume, possess) · Minimum age to buy spirits: 21+ (purchase, consume, possess)
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: 0.02% (under 21)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.