License Plate FAQs

My license plates are missing. How do I replace them?

Because license plates are required by law, the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) makes it easy to obtain duplicates should yours get lost, stolen, or mutilated. Simply submit a completed Vehicle Transaction Application along with a $5 payment to a local DMV office or field agent.

You may request duplicate plates through the mail only if you are currently outside Alaska or there is no DMV office in your area. In that case, submit your application form and fee to:

• State of Alaska

• Division of Motor Vehicles

• Attn: Correspondence

• 1300 W. Benson Blvd., Suite 200

• Anchorage, AK 99503-3600

I hit a stump while four-wheeling and mangled my truck's front license plate. Do I have to apply for a new one?

All license plates must be legible. If the plate is folded or bent in such a twisted manner that it cannot be read, you are required by law to apply for a new plate. It's an easy process: Just submit a completed Vehicle Transaction Application along with a $5 payment to a local DMV office or field agent.

I think some hooligans stole my license plates. Because these were personalized plates, do I have to complete any special forms to order duplicates?

Unfortunately, yes. Along with a Vehicle Transaction Application, you must also submit to a DMV office an Application for Personalized or Call Sign License Plates. And be sure to include a $30 payment.

When you apply for the duplicate plates, the DMV will issue you a set of standard plates to use for the 12 weeks it will take for your replacement personalized plates to arrive.

I need to replace my personalized veteran license plates. Are there any special application forms I need to submit?

Good question. In addition to a Vehicle Transaction Application, also submit an aptly named Application for Personalized Veteran Plates. Include a $30 payment.

My call plates are bent like a pretzel. I need to replace them. Are there any special forms I should be aware of?

Get your writing hand ready. You'll need to submit a Vehicle Transaction Application, an Application for Personalized or Call Sign License Plates, and a Certificate of Eligibility. There is no charge for standardized call plates unless you're requesting Mountain or Caribou plates, which cost $30.

How long will it take for the DMV to send me duplicates of my specialized plates?

Believe it or not, it takes 12 weeks. In the interim, the DMV will issue you standardized plates at no charge.

If I lost my plates, does this mean I must also apply for new year tabs?

No. When you apply for duplicate plates, the DMV will automatically issue you new year tabs and a new registration document.

How do I apply for antique license plates?

Alaska breaks this down into two categories: Historical and Custom Collector. You can apply for either one by submitting an Application for Title & Registration along with all applicable fees.

Do I have to surrender my Alaska license plates after relocating to a new state?

No.