General Requirements

Registration Renewal

You'll only find renewal information at our Registration Renewals page.

First-Time Registration

You must register your vehicle in your name if:

• You just purchased a vehicle from a private party or dealership.

• You just relocated to Alaska.

• You obtained a vehicle via a gift, inheritance, or from a family member.

You have 30 days to title and register your vehicle after the date of purchase. And 10 days after moving to the state.

Get Insurance

Registration also requires subscribing with an insurance carrier. If you're still in the market, compare quotes from the convenience of home at our Insurance Center.

Prepare the Paperwork

Generally, you won't have to submit registration paperwork if you purchase your vehicle from a dealership; the dealer will handle it for you. It's a good idea to confirm this with your dealer before leaving the lot, though.

If you obtain the vehicle another way, you must register the vehicle yourself. Gather the following:

1. A signed-over title. (You can obtain a duplicate if you need to.)
2. Your current out-of-state registration (new residents, only).
3. A completed Application for Title and Registration.
4. If applicable, an emissions inspection (I/M) certificate if you live in Anchorage or Fairbanks North Star Borough.
5. Payment for registration fees.

If you're still in the shopping phase, protect yourself when you order and study a vehicle history report on any car you're strongly considering.

Calculate the Fees

The DMV bases registration fees for passenger vehicles on the class of the vehicle. Trucks, buses, and for-hire vehicles also incorporate weight into the fee equation.

Some communities also charge a Motor Vehicle Registration Tax (MVRT) based on the vehicle's class and age and your residential address.

Go to the DMV

Bring all of your required documents to your local Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office.

Upon registering you must decide on plates. You can choose from standard plates, or something that matches your personality or interests among the personalized and specialty plates. Don't forget to check out frames to complete your look.

Affix Your Stickers

Before you fasten your license plates to the front and rear bumpers, affix registration decals (month and state) to the lower corners of the rear plate. Included instructions explain where to place them.

Get a Tax Deduction

Only commercial vehicles earn owners a tax deduction on vehicle registration fees. For more information on this topic, you may want to consult either an accountant or a tax attorney.

Safely Get on Your Way

Once your vehicle is road-ready, you should next consider protecting against unexpected mechanical breakdowns. Purchasing an after-market auto warranty will protect your wallet, while a roadside assistance package will give you peace of mind in knowing help is just one phone call away. And try to find a mechanic who you feel has your best interests in mind.

There are also a wealth of accessories designed to improve your safety. For example, hands-free headsets will keep your focus on the road, while the latest child safety seats will keep your kids securely fastened. And never underestimate the safety value of a car emergency kit.

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