Alaska Driver's License 2025: A Complete and Thorough Guide

Table Of Content

Explore the updated 2025 requirements for an Alaska driver's license. Whether you're a new applicant or renewing, get insights into the necessary documents, steps, and resources. Get ready for a straightforward process!

Understanding the Different Driver's License Classes in Alaska

Class D

Class D licenses refer to standard licenses for non-commercial vehicles. Class D license holders can operate personal cars, trucks, and vans for personal use.

Class A and B

Class A and B licenses are commercial driver's licenses (CDLs). Class A allows drivers to operate combination vehicles like tractor-trailers. Class B is for single vehicles with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more.

Class C

Class C licenses are also CDLs. However, they apply to single vehicles or combinations. They aren’t covered by Class A or B. Class C includes vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.

Class M and V

Class M licenses are for motorcycle operation. Class V may vary by jurisdiction. In some places, Class V may indicate a specific type of vehicle or commercial use. It's important to check local regulations for Class V.

How Can I Get a Driver’s License in Alaska?

To get your license in Alaska, you must complete the Graduated Driver’s License program.

This program has three steps:

1. Get a learner's license.

2. Get a provisional license.

3. Apply for your unrestricted license.

Stage 1: Learner’s Permit: A Guide for First-time Drivers in Alaska

At 14, you can get an instruction permit to practice driving. Practice with a licensed driver over 21 with a year's experience in your vehicle type, always in the passenger seat.

If you're under 18, you must have your learner's permit and practice driving for a minimum of 6 months. This permit lasts two years and can be renewed once.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be at least 14 years old to qualify for the AK learner’s permit.

Documents Required

• Primary documents, such as passport or birth certificate

• Proof of residence, e.g., bills, rental or mortgage documents, etc.

• Parental consent form

• Social security card

• Proof of school enrollment

Application Process

To obtain your learner's permit, follow these steps:

1. Go to Your Nearby DMV Office

Locate a DMV office near you. Most of them welcome walk-ins. However, check to see if you must schedule your appointment online.

2. Fill Out a Driver's License Application

Download the application from the DOA website. Fill out the form, but don’t sign. Do the signature in front of a DMV rep.

3. Get a Consent Form

Since you’re under 18, you must get a consent form. Get your parents or guardian to complete the form. They must also sign it in front of a DMV employee or Notary Public.

4. Bring Your Documents

Bring your primary and secondary documents. Don’t forget a document to prove your residence. Also, bring along your SSN and proof of name change (if required).

5. Successfully Complete an Eye Test

You will have to pass a vision test by at least 20/40.

6. Pass the Written Exam

Undertaking the AK knowledge test is crucial. It covers a diverse range of topics. Find out more here.

7. Pay the Required Application Fee

You will have to pay a $15 fee. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, money order, or personal check.

8. Get Your Permit

There you have it! Receive your permit. It will be valid for two years.

For those under 18:

• Be ready to show proof of school enrollment.

• Your parent or legal guardian should accompany you to the DMV.

How to Study for the Learner’s Permit Written Exam

To obtain your permit, you must pass the written test. This can be a bit daunting for new drivers. But, with proper study and preparation, passing on the first attempt is possible. Every question on the DMV written test, along with its answer, is covered in the Alaska driver's handbook. Access it here.  You can also try out our AK license practice tests.

Will I Need to Get a Learner’s Permit if I’m 18?

If you're 18 or older in Alaska and haven't had a driver's license, you must get a learner's permit. You will have to pass Alaska  DMV tests before your full license. Unlike younger drivers, you usually don't need to meet additional requirements like:

• Completing driver's education

• Specific permit duration

• Supervised driving hours

• Dealing with provisional license restrictions.

After passing the written exam, you can schedule and take your road test.

Stage 2: Getting a Provisional License

Those between 16 and 17 can apply for a restricted license. That way, you can mostly drive supervised but with certain limitations.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be between 16 and 17 to apply.

• You must have an instruction permit for a minimum of six months.

• You must practice supervised driving. You’ll need at least 40 hours. Out of that, 10 hours must be at night or in poor weather.

Documents Required

• Learner’s permit

• Completed Parental Consent form

• Proof of relationship to minor (birth certificate/adoption documents/guardianship documents)

• Complete the Alaska Provisional License application

Application Process

To obtain your provisional license, follow these steps:

1. Go to the DMV

Visit the local DMV office. Make sure to check if they require online scheduling.

2. Fill Out the Application Form

Download the form from the official website and fill it out. However, sign it in front of a DMV employee.

3. Bring a Consent Form

Since you’re under 18, you will need a consent form from your parents or guardian. They will have to fill out Form 433. Signing must be done with a Notary Public or DMV rep present.

4. Bring Your Learner’s Permit

You must bring your learner’s license to the DMV. If not, bring proof of your knowledge test scores.

5. Pay the Test Fee

You will have to pay a $15 fee. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, money order, or personal check.

6. Pay the Fee

You will have to pay a $20 license fee. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, money order, or personal check.

7. Get Your License

Get your restricted license and enjoy some extra perks!

Restrictions

A provisional license comes with certain restrictions: You can’t travel with non-sibling passengers under 21 between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. unless:

• You’re accompanied by a licensed driver above 21.

• You’re traveling from your place of employment.

• You’re driving within your employment’s vicinity.

Stage 3: Full (Adult) License: Get Complete Driving Privileges

When you turn 18, you’re ready for your full Class D driver’s license.

Eligibility Criteria

• You can apply for a full license at 18.

• If you’ve never held a license, get your learner’s permit first.

• If you’ve held your provisional license for six months, exchange it for a full license.

Documents Required

• Primary documents, such as your passport or birth certificate.

• Secondary documents, such as medical records, school ID, health insurance card, employee ID, IRS or state tax form.

• Proof of residence. E.g., bills, rental or mortgage documents, etc.

• Social security card

• Proof of name change (if applicable)

• Immigration status documents for non-U.S. citizens

Application Process

1. Apply for a Learner’s Permit

Go to your local DMV office. Make sure to check if they require online scheduling. Some might offer walk-ins.

2. Fill Out the Application

Download Form 478 from the official DOA website and fill it out. However, you must sign it in front of a DMV representative.

3. Bring Your Documentation

Make sure to bring along the documents listed above. This includes:

• One primary document

• One secondary document

• Principal residence document

• Social security card

• Proof of name change (if required)

• Immigration status documents (for non-U.S. citizens)

4. Pass a Vision Test

You will have to pass a vision test by at least 20/40.

5. Pass the Knowledge Test

The Alaska knowledge test is a written test. It covers information about various topics, including:

• Safe driving practices

• Traffic laws

•  Road signs.

The test is derived from the Alaska DMV Manual. Access it for free. If you require help passing the test, check out our practice tests here.

6. Take an Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test

You need to take this test if you're over 21 or moving from a learner’s to a license. You can retake it until you pass.

7. Pay the Road Test Fee

You will have to pay a $15 fee. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, money order, or personal check.

8. Pass the Road Test

You must bring a registered, fully functional vehicle with insurance proof. Your road test can be scheduled in person or online. You can also take your road test at a DMV-authorized third party. However, they have their own set fees.

9. Pay the License Fee

You will have to pay a $20 license fee. You can pay by Visa, MasterCard, money order, or personal check.

Alaska Written Test

The Alaska Written Test is the first step to help you get behind the wheel. It’s designed to ensure you understand the essential rules of the road and safe driving practices.

What’s on the Test?

The Alaska knowledge test comprises 20 multiple-choice questions covering traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving habits. You need to get at least 16 questions correct (80%) to pass.

What to Expect on the Alaska Written Test

• Location: Tests are administered at Alaska DMV offices. Walk-ins are welcome, but some locations may offer appointments.

• Languages: The test is available in English, Spanish, and a few other languages.

• Re-Takes: If you don’t pass on the first try, you can retake the test the next day. However, a re-testing fee may apply.

Passing the written test earns you a learner’s permit. After this, you will be able to start practicing your driving skills.

Alaska Road Test

The Alaska Road Test is the final hurdle to getting your driver’s license. It assesses your ability to drive safely and confidently under real-world conditions.

Before the Test

Preparation is key! Make sure to double-check the following:

1. Schedule the Test: Make an appointment at your local DMV office—walk-ins may not be available.

2. Vehicle Requirements: Bring a car that is fully functional, insured, and registered. It must pass a basic safety inspection, including:

   • Working brakes and brake lights

   • Headlights, taillights, and turn signals

   • Tires in good condition (no excessive wear or damage)

   • A functional horn and rearview mirrors

3. Documents to Bring:

   • Proof of insurance and vehicle registration

   • Your valid learner’s permit

During the Test

The examiner will evaluate your skills in various driving scenarios, including:

• Basic Control: Starting, stopping, and steering smoothly.

• Parking: Parallel parking and backing up in a straight line.

• Traffic Laws: Obeying signs, signals, and speed limits.

• Situational Awareness: Lane changes, merging, and using mirrors effectively.

• Safety Practices: Maintaining a safe following distance and yielding the right of way.

Stay calm, listen to the examiner’s instructions, and focus on driving safely.

After the Test

The examiner will inform you immediately if you have passed or failed.

• If You Pass: Head inside to apply for your license! You’ll receive a temporary paper license until your official one arrives in the mail.

• If You Fail: The examiner will explain your mistakes. You can retake the test after a waiting period, typically a few days.

License Renewal Process in Alaska

To drive in Alaska, you need a valid AK driver's license. If it's about to expire or has already expired, you can renew it or apply for an extension. The Alaska DMV makes the renewal process easy.

When to Renew Your AK Driver's License

In Alaska, you must renew your driver's license every 8 years. The DMV lets you renew within a year of the expiration (usually your birthday) with no grace period afterward. Check your driving record if you're unsure about your license status. Since early renewal is allowed, you might not get a renewal notice.

Driver’s License is Lost, Stolen, or Damaged

If you lose your AK driver's license, you might renew it instead of getting a replacement card for a fee. Contact your local AK DMV office to see if you qualify for this choice.

Driver's License Has Expired

If your driver's license expires soon and you can't renew it, you might qualify for an extension. If your AK license is already expired, renew it in person. Besides the usual renewal conditions, you'll need to retake the written knowledge test.

When You Cannot Renew Your Drivers License in Alaska

You can't renew a canceled, revoked, or suspended AK driver's license. If this happens, go to a DMV office in person and apply for license reinstatement if needed.

How to Renew Your AK Driver’s License

Renew your Alaska driver’s license by mail, in person, or online, based on your situation. If you're getting a REAL ID, it's mandatory to renew in person. You can apply a year before its expiry.

Note: For a name change, extra documents are required for in-person renewal.

In Person

The most basic way to apply for your license is by visiting the local DMV.

Here are the steps to follow for in-person renewal:

1. Go to a local DMV branch. Some offices offer appointments, but not all.

2. Bring your current AK license for identification.

3. Fill out the "Application for Alaska Driver License, Permit or Identification Card" form.

4. Pay the renewal fees.

Renewing your Alaska driver's license is easy; just bring your current AK license for identification.

Online

Some drivers in Alaska can renew their licenses online. However, not everyone is eligible due to certain restrictions. To qualify:

• You must be between 21 and 69 years old

• There should be no identity-related issues with the AK DMV

If you recently changed your address or legal name, online renewal is not available.

If you qualify to apply online, here are the steps to renew your license online if you qualify:

• Go to the official DMV online portal.

• Enter the required identifying information.

• Complete any additional details or forms as prompted by the online renewal system.

• Choose the renewal options that apply to your situation.

• Use a credit card to pay for the applicable service fees.

By Mail

You can renew your license by mail if:

• You're over 22

• Your personal details haven't changed

• You didn't renew by mail last time

Here’s how you can apply for your license by mail:

1. Fill out the driver’s license renewal form.

2. Attach your expired driver's license with the form.

3. Mail the package to the DMV.

Remember to check the specific address on the renewal form or the DMV website. Addresses may change.

Note: It costs $21 to renew your driver’s license by mail.

AK License Renewal If You’re in the Military or Out of State

If you can't renew your DMV license in person due to military service, college enrollment, or another reason, you might not qualify for immediate renewal. Alaska's renewal requirements state you must be in the state for renewal. However, you may apply for a one-year temporary license while away. This will allow you to drive until you return for renewal.

You will have to complete the license renewal form. Fill out details like your Social Security Number (SSN), date of birth, and current license number. Payment for fees can be made using a credit card, money order, or cashier's check.

Alaska Driver’s License Renewal Fees

The cost of renewing a driver's license in Alaska depends on the DMV office you choose. Alaska doesn't have a standard renewal fee; it varies by location. Contact the specific DMV office or establishment processing the requests to determine the renewal cost. The general fees required by the state are:

• Temporary license – $5

•  Replacement license – $15

Alaska Driver License for New Residents

Moving to Alaska? Here’s everything you need to know about getting an AK license!

Do I Need to Transfer My Driver’s License?

Yes. You will need to transfer your driver’s license. It doesn’t matter whether you’re from a new country or state.

My Out-of-State Driver’s License is Valid

Here’s what you need to do to get an AK license:

1. Please complete and submit the form along with the required documentation:

   • Primary Document (birth certificate or US passport or foreign passport)

   • Secondary Document (school ID, employee ID, health insurance card, existing driver’s license)

   • Proof of Residence (e.g., utility bill or rental or mortgage documents)

   • Social Security Card

   • Proof of Name Change (if applicable) - Your name must be updated with Social Security before the Alaska DMV can update it

   • Immigration Status Documents (for non-U.S. citizens)

2. Pass the knowledge test. If you fail, you can retake the test.

3. Pass a vision test.

4. Take an alcohol and drug awareness test. This applies if you’re 21.

5. Submit your out-of-state driver's license.

6. Have your photo taken.

7. Pay the $20.00 transfer fee. Visa, MasterCard, personal checks, and money orders are valid means of payment.

My Foreign License is Valid

If your driver's license is from any country except Canada or the U.S., the process for transferring it is similar to applying for a new Alaska driver's license.

For Canadian or U.S. territory licenses, the procedure matches that of transferring an out-of-state license.

For more commonly asked questions you can visit our Alaska Driver License FAQs page.