Alaska2026Passed Legislature
HB269
Alaska Headlight Use Requirements
Last scannedSep 10, 2026, 12:32 AM
In one sentence
This bill updates Alaska law to require drivers to use headlights during specific times, weather conditions, and on certain roads.
What it does
- Requires headlights between one-half hour after sunset and one-half hour before sunrise when other rules do not apply.
- Mandates headlight use at any time if light or weather makes it hard to see people or cars from 1,000 feet away.
- Makes headlights required on roads marked as traffic safety corridors under state law.
- Sets specific dates for mandatory headlight use based on latitude and the Sterling Highway location.
- Requires headlights during periods when emergency orders allow studded tires or chains.
Who it affects
- Drivers of motor vehicles in Alaska
- People operating cars north of 60 degrees North Latitude between September 16 and April 30
- People driving on the paved part of the Sterling Highway during winter months
Limits and unknowns
- The bill does not state the exact date it becomes effective.
- The law only applies to offenses committed on or after its effective date.
Plain language
Terms to know
- Traffic safety corridor
- A road officially designated under state law for special traffic rules.
- Studded tires or chains
- Tires with metal studs or added chains used to improve grip on snow and ice, allowed during specific emergency orders.
Official record
Sources
Official summary
USE OF HEADLIGHTS REQUIRED An Act relating to failure to use headlights.
Official activity
Bill history
- (H) REFERRED TO STATE AFFAIRS1613
- (H) STA, JUD1613
- (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS1613
- (H) SPONSOR SUBSTITUTE INTRODUCED1613
- (H) STA, JUD1478
- (H) READ THE FIRST TIME - REFERRALS1478