How to Renew Your Alaska Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Alaska license through AK DMV. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 5 years

Standard fee $20

Renew early Up to 1 year before expiration

After expiration No grace period; license is invalid the day after expiration

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

Must be over 22, personal information unchanged, and you did not renew by mail at your last renewal. Drivers under 21 must complete an alcohol awareness test before renewing online; REAL ID applicants must apply in person.

Start your online renewal at AK DMV →

Step 2 — Check what to bring

A straightforward renewal usually needs your current Alaska licence and the fee. What else AK DMV asks for depends on whether you are also upgrading to REAL ID, changing your name or address, or renewing after a lapse — and those requirements differ by state. Check the current list on the AK DMV renewal page before you go.

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

AK DMV charges $20 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 5 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Vision test may be required (in person); not required for online renewal. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new licence

Most agencies issue an interim credential you can drive on while the printed card is produced, then post the card separately. How long the interim lasts and how long the card takes are both set by AK DMV and published on its renewal page. Plan around the dates it gives rather than a general estimate.

REAL ID upgrade in Alaska

REAL ID requires an in-person visit with source documents (proof of identity/lawful status, SSN, two proofs of Alaska residency). The REAL ID fee is $20 in addition to the standard $20 license fee (total $40).

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Book ahead where you can. Walk-in waiting times vary by office and time of year and we do not track them, but an appointment removes the question — see the Alaska office list for locations and contact details.

Find your nearest Alaska office

Use our Alaska DMV office finder to locate the closest AK DMV location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.