Alaska Driver’s License Renewal Guide

Updated On July 5, 2021
Did you know Alaska was the 49th state to join the union? That’s why the state is nicknamed “The Last Frontier.” Only one third of Alaska has cities and towns, as the Arctic plains state offers a tiered driver license system. As of 2020, the home to ancient glaciers and stunning wildlife, had a little over 842,000 registered vehicles.

But in “The Last Frontier” state, vehicles include more than just cars and motorcycles. Think snowmobiles, trailers, and tons of commercial trucks. Anchorage has the most registered vehicles, with 325,583 in total as of 2020. Metlakatla has 587. Continue reading for thorough details on how to renew your driver’s license in Alaska.

How to Renew an Alaska Driver’s License

What do I need and how do I renew my Alaska driver’s license? Good questions.

Alaska residents are required to renew their driver’s licenses every five years. Although the Alaska driver’s license renewal process is relatively straightforward, it is normal to have uncertainties about the process, what is required, and which renewal option might be best for you.

The following provides an in-depth guide that can help you complete your Alaska DMV license renewal.

Required Driver’s License Renewal Fees

The cost to renew your license in Alaska is currently $20.00 if done in-person or online, and $21.00 if done via USPS mail. There may be additional service charges for payments made with a major credit card.

You can renew your Alaska drivers license by mail, online or in person. Keep in mind that each process has its own unique requirements that must be met before you can successfully renew your license.

Renewing an Expired Driver’s License

When do I need to renew my license in Alaska? When does my driver’s license expire?

If you find yourself asking these questions, you are not alone.

An Alaska DMV license renewal can take place within one year of your license’s expiration date, which also coincides with the date of your birthday.

Online Driver’s License Renewal

You can renew your Alaska driver’s license online if you’re between the ages of 22 and 68, completed your last renewal in person and your current drivers license is in good standing.

First, you’ll need to establish your identity and eligibility using the online form provided by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles. Once verified, you can follow the online instructions to renew your license.

Once the online process is completed, the Alaska DMV will send you a receipt and a temporary copy of your renewed driver’s license via email. You’ll receive your permanent copy via USPS mail within two weeks.

The Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles strongly encourages online and in-person renewals. You may, however, apply for a temporary license if you’re currently out-of-state or on military duty.

Simply fill out a Request for Out-of-State Temporary License form and mail it to the following address:

Once approved, your temporary license will extend the expiration date of your current license by another year. There’s a $5.00 fee for each temporary license requested.

Renewing Your Driver’s License In Person

If you wish to renew AK license or state ID card in person, you’ll need to visit your local DMV office.

Keep in mind that operating times can vary depending on location, so it’s best to check current office hours and arrive early. You must apply in-person if your Alaska DMV license renewal involves changing your personal information.

Once you arrive, you’ll need to complete Form 478: Application for Alaska Driver License Permit or Identification Card and present two forms of identification. You’ll also need to surrender your current drivers license and successfully pass a vision test.

A temporary license will be given upon successful renewal. If your permanent Alaska driver’s license isn’t immediately issued to you at the DMV office, it will arrive by mail within two weeks.

Renewing an Expired Driver’s License

Unlike other states, the Alaska DMV does not offer a grace period after your license expires. Once it expires you won’t be able to drive your vehicle legally within the state until you renew.

You’ll also have to retake the written portion of your driver’s license exam if you choose to renew your expired license. If your license expires while you’re out of state, you can apply for a Request for Out-of-State Temporary License online or by mail.

Scheduling a DMV Appointment to Renew

Should you have any questions regarding how to renew a driver’s license in Alaska or are interested in scheduling an appointment to save time when renewing in person, contact the DMV location nearest to you.