Using a mobile phone while driving in Idaho (2026)
Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
In short: Idaho bans using a mobile electronic device while driving, including while stopped in traffic, unless it is used hands-free or by voice with at most one-touch activation. The fine is USD 75 for a first offence and a first conviction carries no points. Police may stop a driver for this offence alone.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Holding a phone while driving bannedUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Yes [1] |
| Penalty points on the licenceUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | 0 points [1] |
| Texting while drivingUsing a mobile phone while driving a car | Banned for all drivers: you may not use a mobile electronic device while driving, including while stopped in traffic, unless it is used hands-free or by voice with at most one-touch activation. Watching video other than navigation is also banned. [1] |
| Can police stop you for this alone?Using a mobile phone while driving a car | Primary: police may use a violation as the primary or sole reason for a traffic stop or citation. [1] |
| Fine, first offence (lowest amount where a range applies)Using a mobile phone while driving a car | $75.00 per offence [1] |
Notes
- Idaho Code 49-1401A(2) prohibits operating a motor vehicle while using a mobile electronic device, including while stopped in traffic. Exceptions include hands-free or voice-operated use where the driver uses no hand except for one-touch activation, selecting a number or name by one-touch or voice, and hands-free navigation.
- The statute says a first-offence conviction results in no violation points. It does not say that later convictions are also free of points.
- USD 75 for a first offence, USD 150 for a second within 3 years and USD 300 for each further offence within 3 years. A court may suspend the licence for up to 90 days after three convictions within 3 years.
Sources
- Idaho State Legislature: Idaho Code § 49-1401A: Distracted driving (Internet Archive snapshot of 10 July 2026) (consulted 10 October 2026) · all sources
Idaho 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Idaho | Banned (hands-free allowed) | — | USD 75 (first offence) | No points (first offence) |
| Nevada | Banned | Hands-free allowed | USD 50 | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Oregon | Banned | Hands-free, 18 or older | USD 265 (presumptive) | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Utah | No (calls allowed) | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Washington | Banned | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| Wyoming | No (texting only) | Allowed | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified |
More rules in Idaho
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Illegal; penalties under the Controlled Substances Act · Growing at home: No (illegal to manufacture)
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 35 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 65 mph state hwys; 55 mph other
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 15 (daylight only); full privileges at 16 · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 14½ (driver training permit)
- E-bikes and speed pedelecsLegal class: Class 1-3, bicycle rules
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (non-aerial only, set dates)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Blade 6 in or less is not a 'deadly weapon' · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule; 6 in blade limit
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $7.25 per hour
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes, all seats · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes, all seats
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- 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.