What Alaska requires before you can get a driver license

Alaska requires you to be at least 16 years old, prove your identity, show proof of residency, and pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test. You will also need a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). The state does not issue licenses to people without legal presence in the United States, though you may be able to get a limited-term license if you have temporary protected status or another may have access to immigration status — check with the Division of Motor Vehicles about your specific situation.

The process takes place at your local DMV office, and you cannot complete it online. You will need to bring original documents, not copies, and you will pay a fee at the time you explore. The entire process from first visit to receiving your license in the mail typically takes two to four weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring an original document proving your identity, such as a passport or birth certificate, plus proof you live in Alaska, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Alaska requires a written test covering traffic laws and road signs, followed by a practical driving test with a DMV examiner in your own vehicle.
  • You must be at least 16 years old, have a valid Social Security number or ITIN, and have legal presence in the United States.
  • The license fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid, and you pay it when you submit your process at the DMV office.

Documents you need to bring to the DMV

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Alaska. For identity, the DMV accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, birth certificate, permanent resident card, or tribal ID card. The document must be original — photocopies are not accepted.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your name and current Alaska address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill or lease in your name, you can bring a notarized letter from a landlord or property owner stating that you live there, along with a piece of mail showing your address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number or ITIN. If you do not have either, you cannot get a standard driver license, though you may be able to get a license without a Social Security number in limited circumstances — ask the DMV office when you call to schedule your appointment.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions about Alaska traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is available in English and several other languages; call your local DMV office to confirm which languages are offered in your area.

You can study using the Alaska Driver Manual, which is available free online on the DMV website and in print at DMV offices. The manual covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. Most people spend one to two weeks studying before taking the test.

You take the test at the DMV office on the same day you explore. If you do not pass, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the test.

The driving skills test and how it works

After you pass the written test, you schedule a separate appointment for the driving skills test. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and takes place on public roads near the DMV office. You must bring your own vehicle, and it must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance.

The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. They will also watch how you handle traffic, obey traffic signals, and respond to other drivers. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow all traffic laws.

If you do not pass, you can schedule another test. There is a fee each time you take the test. Most people pass on their first or second attempt.

License types and how long they are valid

Alaska offers several license types. A standard driver license lets you drive a regular passenger vehicle. A commercial driver license (CDL) is required if you drive a truck or bus for work and has additional testing requirements. A motorcycle endorsement adds the right to ride a motorcycle to your standard license.

Standard licenses are valid for five years if you are under 65, and four years if you are 65 or older. You renew by mail or online before the expiration date on your license. Commercial licenses have different renewal periods depending on your medical certification status.

The fee for a five-year standard license is $20. A four-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $16. Motorcycle endorsements and CDLs have separate fees. You pay the fee when you submit your process.

What happens if you have an out-of-state license

If you already have a valid driver license from another state, you do not have to take the written and driving tests again. Instead, you can transfer your license by bringing your out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Alaska residency to a DMV office. You will still pay the Alaska license fee.

Your out-of-state license must be valid and not suspended or revoked. If it is expired, you will need to take the written and driving tests. If you have moved to Alaska from another country and have an international license, you must take both tests.

Where to go and how to schedule an appointment

Alaska has DMV offices in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, Ketchikan, Palmer, and several smaller towns. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the Alaska DMV website. Most offices require you to schedule an appointment in advance; walk-ins are not always accepted.

Call the office directly or use the online appointment system on the DMV website to book a time. Appointments typically fill up two to four weeks in advance, especially in larger cities. If you cannot get an appointment soon, try calling a smaller office in a nearby town.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The office will take a photo and fingerprints for your license, so wear something you are comfortable being photographed in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Not usually. Alaska requires a Social Security number or ITIN to issue a standard driver license. If you do not have either, contact your local DMV office to ask about limited options that may be available in your situation.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no additional cost, or schedule another appointment. Most people pass on their second attempt. Study the Alaska Driver Manual between attempts and focus on the areas where you struggled.

Do I need to take the driving test if I transfer my license from another state?

No. If your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended, you can transfer it without retaking the tests. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, and proof of Alaska residency to a DMV office.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?

The DMV mails your license to you, which usually takes two to four weeks. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use to drive while you wait for the plastic card to arrive.

What vehicle should I use for the driving test?

Use the vehicle you plan to drive most often. It must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before the test begins.