Time to Renew? Your Guide to Renewing a Driver's License in Alaska

Even after you've been a licensed driver for years, there's still one important task you can't forget: renewing your driver's license. In Alaska, a standard driver's license is typically valid for five years and expires on your birthday. [15] Driving with an expired license is illegal, so it's essential to stay on top of your renewal.

Fortunately, the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) provides several ways to renew your license. This guide will walk you through the process, whether you choose to do it online or in person.

When Can You Renew Your License?

You can renew your Alaska driver's license if it is due to expire within the next year. [6, 15] It's always a good idea to renew early to avoid any last-minute issues.

Crucially, Alaska does not have a grace period. [6, 15] The moment your license expires, it is no longer legal for you to drive. If you allow your license to be expired for more than one year, you will be required to pass the written knowledge test again before you can renew. [6, 15]

Option 1: Renewing Your License In Person

The most common way to renew your license is by visiting a DMV office. This is required if your last renewal was not done in person, or if you need to make changes to your license, such as a name or address change.

What to Expect and What to Bring:

1. Complete the Application Form: You will need to fill out Form D1, the Application for Alaska Driver License, Permit or State Identification. You can often find this form online to fill out in advance, but remember to wait to sign it until you are at the DMV. [6]
2. Provide Necessary Documents: You will need to bring documents to verify your identity and residency. While the requirements can sometimes be less strict than for a first-time license, it is always best to be prepared. Bring your current license and documents from the core four categories:
   • Proof of identity and date of birth (e.g., birth certificate, passport)
   • A secondary identity document
   • Proof of Social Security Number
   • Proof of Alaska residency (utility bill, lease agreement, etc.) [6]
3. Pass a Vision Test: Your eyesight will be tested to ensure it still meets the state's minimum requirements for safe driving. [6, 15] Be sure to bring your glasses or contacts if you need them to drive.
4. Take a New Photo: The DMV will take a new photograph for your updated license. [6, 15]
5. Pay the Renewal Fee: There is a fee for renewing your license. The amount can vary depending on whether you are getting a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license. [6, 24]
6. Surrender Your Old License: You will need to turn in your old, expiring license. [15] You will be issued a temporary paper license, and your new, permanent card will be mailed to you, typically within a few weeks. [6, 19]

Option 2: Renewing Your License Online

For many drivers, renewing online is a fast and convenient option. However, not everyone is eligible.

Eligibility for Online Renewal:

You may be eligible to renew your Alaska driver's license online if:

• You are between the ages of 22 and 68. [15, 23]
• You completed your last renewal in person. [23]
• Your current license is in good standing (not suspended or revoked). [23]
• You hold a non-commercial driver's license. [15]
• You do not need to change your name or other vital information.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the Alaska DMV Website: Navigate to the official DMV website and find the online renewal portal.
2. Verify Your Identity: You will be prompted to enter information to verify your identity and eligibility. [23]
3. Follow the Prompts: The system will guide you through the renewal process.
4. Pay the Fee: You will need a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee online. [23]
5. Receive Your Temporary License: Once the process is complete, you should receive a temporary license via email that you can print out and use immediately. [19, 23] Your permanent license will be mailed to your address on file.

Special Considerations

• Renewing After Turning 21: If you are renewing a license that was issued to you as a minor, it will expire 90 days after your 21st birthday. [6, 19] Before you can renew, you must pass an Alcohol and Drug Awareness knowledge test. [6, 19] You can take this test at a DMV office, and it is often available online as well.
• Out-of-State Renewals: If you are temporarily out of state when your license is due to expire (for example, as a student or member of the military), you may be able to renew by mail or apply for a temporary extension. [23] It's best to contact the DMV directly for instructions in these situations.
• REAL ID: When renewing, you will have the option to get a standard license or a REAL ID-compliant license. If you opt for a REAL ID for the first time, you must apply in person and meet the stricter documentation requirements. [24]

Keeping your driver's license current is a fundamental responsibility for every driver. By knowing your options and preparing in advance, you can make your Alaska license renewal a quick and painless process.