Alaska Driver License

If you have decided to become a driver in Alaska, it’s a must to get an Alaska’s driver license. But before you head to the office, it’s a better idea to know how the procedure works.

First of all, you need to decide on the permit type. In AK, there are five categories of DLs. If you need the car for just everyday use, you should get Class D. Let’s have a look at each of them.

In short, Class D enables you to operate any non-commercial motor vehicle for everyday use. The car or motorcycle should weigh no more than 26,000 pounds. You can transfer up to 15 people.

This is mainly meant for villages that aren’t connected to highways, and the application is made generally by mail.

Actually, Class A allows you to haul a combined vehicle ( gross weight of 26,001 or more). Any car having a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more along with a trailer with a GVWR of 10,000 pounds or less is classified as B.

Any single motor vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,000 pounds is classified as Class C. The car can transport 16 or more passengers as well as hazardous materials.

To obtain your DL in Alaska you have to be 18 years or older. However, you can enroll to get an instruction permit after 14. Basically, residents complete three stages before the total permission.

First of all, you have to apply for an instruction permit. You'll need it to drive on a street or highway. However, you must always be accompanied by a certified motorist who is above the age of 21 and has at least one year of driving experience.

After you have completed your IP for half of a year, you are eligible for provisional permission. The letter will allow you to drive a car legally most of the time, but there are some restrictions. For example, you may not carry non-sibling passengers under the age of 21 or drive between 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Finally, you may apply for a full-class Alaska driver’s license at the age of 18. If you've had a provisional certificate for at least 6 months, you can simply change upgrade it at your local DMV office by making an appointment. To be eligible, you must have 20/40 vision in each eye or both eyes together.

There are knowledge, alcohol, and drug awareness as well as road tests to qualify for the DL. You need to score 70% or more for each of them.

It will cost you $20 to obtain the final certificate. The road test separately costs $15.

After you are qualified with an AK DL, you have to renew it. Generally, the due date is written on the documents and you also get a reminder. Renewal is possible online, via mail, or in person. The overall cost is $21.

The required documents are the vision test certificate, proof of identity, proof of residence, your current DL as well as a health insurance card or employee ID.

For two weeks, you will get a temporary permit until the real one arrives.