The Alaska Driving Test Cheat Sheet: Key Numbers & Maneuvers for a First-Time Pass

You've studied the Alaska Driver Manual and logged your practice hours. Now, it's time for the final review before your road test. This "cheat sheet" is your last-minute tool to refresh your memory on the most important numbers, rules, and maneuvers that your DMV examiner will be watching for. Let's lock in this knowledge so you can drive with confidence.

By the Numbers: Critical Alaska Rules

These are the specific figures you need to know. Demonstrating your knowledge of these shows you're ready to drive safely in Alaska.

Speed Limits (Unless Otherwise Posted)

• 15 mph: In alleys.
• 20 mph: In business districts and designated school zones. A school zone extends 300 feet in either direction from the marked crosswalk.
• 25 mph: In residential districts.
• 55 mph: On all other roadways (the default speed limit).
• 65 mph: On some posted rural highways and interstates.

Safe Distances & Parking Rules

• Following Distance: Use the four-second rule. This is more conservative than in many other states. Pick a fixed object ahead (like a sign), and when the car in front of you passes it, you should be able to count "one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four" before you pass the same object.
• Signaling: While there isn't a specific foot-distance rule for signaling, your electric turn signals must be visible from 500 feet in normal sunlight. This means you should signal well in advance of any turn or lane change.
• Parking Near a Fire Hydrant: Do not park within 15 feet.
• Parking Near a Crosswalk/Intersection: Do not park within 20 feet.
• Parking Near a Stop Sign or Traffic Signal: Do not park within 30 feet.
• Horn Audible Distance: Your horn must be functional and audible from 200 feet.
• Headlight Use: You must use your headlights when visibility is less than 1,000 feet.

Key Maneuvers You WILL Be Tested On

The Alaska road test is comprehensive. Be prepared to demonstrate your control of the vehicle in these specific situations.

Parallel Parking

Even if it makes you nervous, this is a required skill.

1. Signal your intent. Pull up alongside the car you'll park behind, about 2-3 feet away.
2. Check traffic, then begin backing up slowly.
3. When your rear bumper is aligned with the other car's rear bumper, turn your wheel sharply toward the curb.
4. When your front door aligns with the other car's rear bumper, start turning the wheel away from the curb.
5. Straighten out and center your vehicle in the space.

Backing in a Straight Line

The examiner will ask you to back up for about 50 feet.

• Look Over Your Shoulder: You MUST turn your head and look over your right shoulder through the rear window. Do not just use your mirrors or backup camera. The examiner needs to see you physically checking where you are going.
• Keep the vehicle slow, steady, and straight.

The Quick Stop

The examiner will instruct you to perform a quick, safe stop from about 20 mph. They are testing your reaction time and your ability to maintain control without skidding.

Three-Point Turn (Turnabout)

This maneuver tests your ability to turn around on a narrow street.

1. Signal right and pull to the right side of the road.
2. Signal left, check for traffic, and turn your wheel all the way left, moving forward toward the opposite curb. Stop before hitting it.
3. Turn your wheel all the way right. Check traffic again, and back up slowly until you have enough room to pull forward.
4. Shift to drive, straighten your wheel, and proceed in the correct lane.

Top Examiner Focus Points

• Active Scanning: Constantly move your eyes. Check your rearview mirror, side mirrors, and the road ahead. The examiner wants to see that you are aware of your entire surroundings.
• Hand Position: Keep both hands on the wheel, ideally at the 9 and 3 or 8 and 4 positions. This demonstrates control.
• Right-of-Way: Be decisive but not aggressive. Know when it's your turn to go at a 4-way stop. Always yield to pedestrians.
• Blocking Traffic Rule: Alaska has a unique law: if you have five or more vehicles lined up behind you on a two-lane road, you are legally required to pull over at the next safe turnout and let them pass. While unlikely to happen on a short road test, knowing this rule shows superior knowledge of Alaska law.
• Using Technology as an Aid: The DMV specifically notes that you can use tools like backup cameras, but they are assistive devices. You must still demonstrate safe driving habits like turning your head to check your blind spots and looking over your shoulder when backing up.

You've put in the time and effort. This cheat sheet is your final tool to sharpen your skills. Drive safely, listen to your examiner, and show them you're ready for the road. You can do this!