Your First Alaska Driver's License
Congratulations! As a beginning driver the privilege to drive represents a stepping stone in your life. In Alaska, you may apply for your first Alaska Driver License after you turn 18; however, with your parent's help you may qualify sooner. Additionally there are several requirements that you need to follow to ensure that you know the laws, are a proficient driver, and will conduct yourself safely on the road.
How do I get my License?
You must go a local Division of Motor Vehicles office to apply for a driver license. You will submit Form D1, which can be filled out and printed in advance.
Please note: The DMV has developed additional services to assist Alaska's rural residents with licensing issues unique to remote communities. Please read the guide to rural driving.
What fees will I pay?
See the following page for fees.
What do I bring to the office to get a REAL ID License?
Starting May 7th, 2025, Alaska resident will need to present a REAL ID compliant license/ID, or another acceptable form of identification, for accessing Federal facilities, entering nuclear power plants, and boarding commercial aircraft.
The Alaska Real ID is not mandatory, but if you want one you will have to apply in person and bring the documents required.
Documents Required – Click Here.
What do I bring to the DMV office to get a Non Compliant License
In order to get your Alaska driver license, you must bring 4 or 5 documents that prove your name and birth date, your current residence and your social security number. Listed below are the five types of documents and examples each. If you are unable to obtain any of these documents please contact the Alaska DMV for other possible options. When applying, please bring one of each type to the DMV.
Primary Documents
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Proof of your Legal name, Date of Birth, and lawful presence (called the "primary document")
These documents are acceptable for proving your legal name and date of birth. Please bring one:
- An original or certified copy of a U.S. birth certificate from Vital Statistics.
- Passport or passport card issued by the United States or US Territory.
- A foreign passport with appropriate immigration status forms issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.
- A resident alien, temporary resident alien, or employment work authorization document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service.
- An Alaska instruction permit or Alaska State Identification card.
- Certificate of Citizenship, Naturalization, or Birth Abroad.
Residential Address
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Proof of your principal residence
The following items are acceptable for proving your principal residence. The document must show your residence address, not a post office box or other mail cache facility. Please bring one:
- Utility bill
- Alaska voter registration card
- Alaska title and/or registration (Issued at least 30 days prior to application)
- Paycheck Stub
- 1st class mail
- Change of address confirmation from USPS
- Tribal ID card for remote address within tribal area
- School Records
- Insurance documents
- Canceled check or bank statement
- Legitimate lease or mortgage documents
- Letter from employer, bank, utility, charitable organization, etc. on letterhead verifying applicant’s residence address
Social Security
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Social Security Number, in accordance with AS 28.15.061(b)(4)
If you have a Social Security Number, you must put it on your application. The information on your application must verify with Social Security’s records.
If you do not have a Social Security Number, you must provide documentation from the Social Security Administration verifying that you have not been issued a number
Name Change
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Proof of Name Change (if you have changed your legal name)
If you have had a name change, the DMV must be able to establish a connection between your old name, new name, and any names in between through the documents below. The documents must be an original or certified copy of the original issued by a government agency.
- U.S. Passport (Must be current)
- Amended birth certificate
- Certified adoption papers, marriage certificate, court order or divorce decree
- Certificate of Dissolution, Divorce or Annulment (referencing previous and adjudicated name)
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Name Change (referencing previous and adjudicated name)
NOTE: A name may not be added that is not otherwise found in linked documents. This can be done through an amended certificate or through a court-issued Certificate of Name Change.
What tests do I take?
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You must pass the written knowledge test, a vision test, and/or a road test prior to being issued a driver license.
- Written Knowledge Test
You may only take this test once per day.
- Vision Test
- If your eyesight improves, you will be required to retake this test to remove restrictions.
- Road Test
- Please read more details regarding the road test
- Alcohol and Drug Awareness Knowledge Test
When you turn 21 your DL/ID expires in 90-Days.
You have to pass the Alcohol Test before getting a licence.
You may take this test as many time as necessary until passed
Can I practice for the written knowledge test?
Yes, try our Online Knowledge Test.