Although there is no federal (nationwide) law that prohibits texting or using a wireless phone while driving, many states have passed laws that prohibit such activities—and some municipalities (cities, towns) have also passed ordinances that restrict texting, talking, or emailing while driving. For example:

• 25 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned drivers from hand-held phone use while driving.

• 48 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam have banned texting while driving for all drivers.

• 37 states and the District of Columbia prohibit all cell phone use by novice drivers.

• 23 states and the District of Columbia prohibit school bus drivers from cell phone use while driving.

For more information on state laws, visit the Governor Highway Safety Association page by copying this link and pasting it into your internet browser: https://www.ghsa.org/state-laws/issues/distracted%20driving

In Alaska (AK), texting while driving is prohibited for all drivers. This ban is comprehensive and includes typing, sending, or reading a text message, email, or accessing the internet while driving. The law is primary enforcement, meaning a police officer can pull over and cite a driver for texting while driving without needing to witness another violation. However, as of the knowledge cutoff date, Alaska does not have a statewide ban on the use of hand-held phones while driving for all drivers. The state does have restrictions on cell phone use for certain drivers; for instance, novice drivers, which typically include drivers with a learner's permit or those with an intermediate license, are not allowed to use cell phones while driving. Additionally, school bus drivers in Alaska are prohibited from using cell phones when passengers are present. It's important to note that some municipalities within the state may have their own ordinances that provide stricter regulations on mobile phone use while driving, so drivers should be aware of local laws as well.