Medical Conditions

Seizures

If you're a first-time license applicant with a history of seizures, you must fetch a physician's statement claiming that you have been seizure free for at least six months; that the condition is controllable; and you are in no danger to others on the road. You must submit this statement when applying.

If you're renewing your license, you must inform the DMV when your last seizure occurred. If it fell within the last six months, the state will not renew your license. If your last seizure occurred longer than six months ago, but under five years, submit a medical evaluation form signed by a licensed physician.

Sight

The Alaska DMV requires a vision test every time you renew your license.

To qualify for an unrestricted license, you must possess at least 20/40 vision in one eye, with or without glasses.

If you're limited to 20/100 vision, submit a report from an optometrist with your license application. Based on this information, the DMV will then decide whether or not to issue you a restricted license. Restrictions could mean limited driving during certain hours, being limited to certain speeds, and even being restricted to only certain areas.

If you wear bioptic telescopic lenses and your vision is less than 60%, you will not be issued a license, unless you can meet Alaska's requirements for visual acuity without the aid of the lenses.

Hearing

The state does not impose any restrictions on deaf or hearing impaired drivers. The lone requirement is that the vehicle you're driving has side mirrors on both sides (passenger and driver) of the car. But since all vehicles now come equipped with both-side mirrors, this is no longer an issue.

Elderly Drivers

Drivers 69 or older cannot renew a license by mail. It must be done in person at any DMV office. You will be required to pass a vision test.

Reporting Bad Elderly Drivers

There is no set procedure for reporting a bad elderly driver. If you know the driver's family, consider approaching them first before reporting to the police. Otherwise, contact the police with the driver's license plate number. Don't feel guilty about reporting. Statistics prove elderly drivers have the worst safety record for per miles driven. Your vigilance can lead to saving lives.