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From Global Roads to Alaskan Highways: How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in AK

Welcome to Alaska! As a new resident, you have a 90-day grace period to drive on your valid foreign driver's license. After that, you must obtain an Alaska driver's license to continue driving legally. The process may seem complex, but this step-by-step guide will break down everything you need to know to successfully navigate the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and get on the road.

It's important to note that Alaska does not have broad reciprocity agreements with other countries (aside from Canada) that would allow for a simple license swap. Therefore, you should expect to complete the full testing process.

Step 1: Gather Your Complete Documentation

This is the most crucial step. The Alaska DMV requires a specific set of original, unexpired documents to verify your identity, legal presence, and residency. Photocopies are not accepted.

Core Documents Checklist:

  • Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: Bring your original, unexpired license.
  • Certified English Translation: If your license is not in English, you must provide a certified translation. The DMV provides a specific form (COFAT) for this purpose. An official translation from your home country's embassy is often acceptable.
  • Valid Foreign Passport: Must be your original, unexpired passport.
  • U.S. Immigration Documents: You must provide documents proving your legal status in the United States. This will vary based on your situation but typically includes:
  • Valid U.S. Visa
  • I-94 Arrival/Departure Record (You can print your most current one from the official CBP website).
  • I-551 Resident Alien Card, I-766 Employment Authorization Document, SEVIS I-20 (for F-1 students), or DS-2019 (for J-1 visitors).
  • Proof of Social Security Number (SSN): You must present your original Social Security card. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must provide an official ineligibility letter (Form SSA-L676) from the Social Security Administration. This is a non-negotiable requirement.
  • Two Proofs of Alaska Residency: You must provide two separate documents that show your name and physical Alaska address (P.O. boxes are not sufficient). Acceptable documents include:
  • Utility bills (one must be issued within the last 90 days)
  • Lease or rental agreement
  • Bank statement or canceled check
  • Paycheck stub
  • An official letter from an employer or charitable organization on their letterhead verifying your address

Step 2: Prepare for and Pass the Required Tests

Because you are transferring a license from outside the U.S. or Canada, you will need to pass all three standard tests.

  • Vision Test: A basic screening to ensure your eyesight meets Alaska's minimum requirement of 20/40, with or without corrective lenses.
  • Written Knowledge Test: This is a multiple-choice exam covering Alaska's traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. All questions are based on the official Alaska Driver Manual. You must study this manual thoroughly.
  • Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test: Applicants over 21 must also pass this separate knowledge test.
  • Road Test (Driving Skills Test): This is a mandatory step for applicants with licenses from countries other than the U.S. or Canada. You will need to demonstrate your ability to safely operate a vehicle to an examiner. This includes maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and backing up in a straight line. You must provide a properly registered and insured vehicle for this test.

Step 3: Visit the DMV and Complete the Application

Once you have gathered all your documents and are prepared for the tests, you can proceed.

  1. Make an Appointment: While walk-ins may be available, it is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online through the Alaska DMV website to reduce your wait time.
  2. Complete the Application Form: You will need to fill out the Application for Alaska Driver License, Permit or Identification Card (Form D1). You can fill it out beforehand but do not sign it until you are in front of a DMV representative.
  3. Submit Documents and Take Tests: Present all your original documents to the DMV agent. You will then take the vision, written, and alcohol/drug awareness tests.
  4. Schedule and Pass the Road Test: After passing the written exams, you can schedule your road test. Pay the $15 road test fee. Upon passing the road test, you are ready for the final step.
  5. Pay the License Fee and Get Your License: The final step is to pay the license issuance fee (around $20) and have your photo taken.

Important Considerations for International Applicants

  • Duration of License: Your Alaska driver's license will be valid for a period that matches the duration of your authorized stay in the U.S. Its expiration date will align with the expiration date on your immigration documents.
  • SAVE System Verification: The DMV uses the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program to verify immigration documents. While this is often instant, it can sometimes require secondary verification, which may take several weeks. It's wise to start the process well before your 90-day grace period expires.
  • Name Changes: If your name on your passport or immigration documents is different from your foreign license or other documents, you must provide legal proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Transferring your license is a vital step in settling into your new life in Alaska. By carefully following these steps and preparing all the necessary materials in advance, you can make the process as smooth and efficient as possible.