Coming to Stay

Let us be the first to welcome you to the 49th state.

Alaska is a world apart, filled with rugged individuals, friendly folks, beautiful cities, charming towns, pristine landscape, towering mountains and brooding glaciers. Welcome to the world of wilderness magic and celestial wonder: Alaska, The Land of the Midnight Sun.

Need a place to start? You can always view the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) website for great links and information. If you haven't made the move yet and need some help with your plans, the Alaska Job Center Network can help with the search for employment, and there's a terrific relocation service for those who need to make those arrangements.

How to Obtain an Alaska Driver License

If you are at least 16 years old and have a valid driver's license from another state, you may apply for a new license in Alaska. You must also carry a separate endorsement if you ride a motorcycle. If you do not drive, you may apply for an Alaska non-driver, state-issued identification card.

Here's what you'll need to do once you get to your local DMV office:

• Surrender your out-of-state driver's license

• Show proof of birth date and provide your Social Security number.

• Pass a written knowledge test

• Pass the vision test

• Have your photograph taken

• Pay the fee

• Pass a road test, if your license is from a country other than the United States

You can find the driver handbook online, to study before you take your written or road test.

Your new driver's license will be valid for five years. For more information on the specific fees and other driver's license requirements, see our section on driver licenses.

First-Time Driver?

If you have never held a driver license, we have a great section just for you, telling you how to start the process of applying for your first license. You can even view practice tests so you'll know what to expect on your written knowledge test. We also have a page dedicated to the special requirements for teen drivers.

Commercial Drivers

If you are a professional driver and have relocated to Alaska, you must apply for your commercial driver license within 30 days of becoming a resident in order to work in or from Alaska. If you have questions about CDLs, we have compiled this list of commercial driver frequently asked questions to assist you.

Want to become a commercial driver once you get settled in? Check this Commercial Driver Education page. It has the information you'll need to get started.

In the Military?

Are you are arriving in Alaska due to a new military assignment? We have a section devoted to drivers in the military.

Motor Vehicle Registration

Once you've settled in and applied for your driver license, you'll need to register your vehicles in Alaska. There is a separate section for those of you with motorcycles to register. You must also register any RVs and motorhomes, boats, snow machines and ATVs, and custom-built cars, although if the custom car has already been registered elsewhere, you will probably be able to register it like a regular car registration. And, depending on where you live, you may require an I/M testing certificate, the Alaska equivalent of a smog certificate.

Mandatory Insurance State

Alaska requires that all motor vehicles carry valid liability insurance before they can be registered.

Drivers With Disabilities

In Alaska, you may order your custom or specialized license plates online. If you are a driver with disabilities, we have a page covering your needs, including how to apply for a disabled parking placard or license plates.

Other DMV Services

In Alaska, the DMV offers voter registration and you may sign up to be an organ donor and give the gift of life. You may enroll in a defensive driving class, or obtain copies of your driving records.

Each year, you will need to renew the registration for your cars, motorcycles, vans, trucks, and SUVs. Boat registrations are renewed every two years, while snow machines and ATVs may be renewed for two, four, or six years.

You'll also want to know the correct procedure should you misplace or lose your driver license, and if you move, you will need to change your address with the DMV within 10 days.

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