Using a mobile phone while driving in Alaska (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Alaska bans reading or typing a text or other non-voice message on a phone while driving, and driving with a video screen operating in view of the driver. Voice calls on a handheld phone are not covered by that ban. A conviction carries 6 demerit points; the statute sets no fixed fine.

RuleWhat applies
Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a carNo [1]
Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car⚠ Not yet verified
Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car6 points [2]
Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a carReading or typing a text message or other non-voice message on a phone or other device with a screen in the driver's view is banned while driving. Voice communication and displaying caller ID, navigation and maps are exempt. [1]

Notes

  • The ban is on reading or typing a text or other non-voice message on a device in the driver's view, and on an operating video screen in view of the driver. Portable phones used for voice communication or showing caller identification are expressly exempt. Reading or typing a text is a violation, or a felony if the driving causes injury or death.
  • AS 28.35.161(f) refers to AS 12.55 without a fixed amount. AS 12.55.035(b)(7) sets a ceiling of USD 500 for a violation by an individual; the fine actually imposed was not found in a source read.
  • 2 AAC 90.310(a)(12) assigns 6 demerit points on conviction for use of electronic devices prohibited under AS 28.35.161 or unlawful installations under AS 28.35.161. The schedule is in addition to any points set in AS 28.

Sources

  1. Alaska State Legislature: Alaska Statutes AS 28.35.161 - Use of electronic devices while driving (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Alaska Legislature (Alaska Administrative Code): 2 AAC 90.310. Demerit point schedule (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

More rules in Alaska

  • CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal for adults 21+ within limits · Growing at home: Yes: 6 plants (3 mature), 12 per dwelling
  • Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 20 mph business, 25 mph residential · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph
  • Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (provisional licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 14 (instruction permit)
  • FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (sold by permit holders) · Minimum age to buy: 18
  • Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Excluded from concealed-weapon offences · Locking or one-handed knives: Under 16 needs consent; no sale under 18
  • Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $14.00 per hour
  • Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes, age 16+ · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes, age 16+
  • 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 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 21
  • Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.08% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: Any amount (under 21)

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.