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    • Alaska License Plates

    Every vehicle registered in Alaska must display license plates. There are options to select a standard plate, or to upgrade to a personalized or specialty design. The information provided here outlines the various plate categories, relevant display regulations, and procedures for requesting replacements.

    The Standard Alaska License Plate

    The standard Alaska plate uses a yellow background with blue lettering. This design has represented the state for decades on passenger vehicles. Standard plates come with a randomly assigned combination of letters and numbers. This plate is included in the cost of your initial registration.

    Plate Size and Materials

    • Standard: 6 x 12 inches
    • Motorcycle: 4 x 7 inches
    Plates are made from reflective material for better visibility at night. This helps other drivers and law enforcement read your plate in low light.

    Personalized License Plates

    A personalized plate lets you request your own letter and number combination. Alaska allows two to six characters on most personalized plates. You cannot use symbols, punctuation, or a message that is entirely numbers. Choose from several available plate designs when you personalize your message.

    Cost of a Personalized Plate

    Personalization costs $30 for most standard plate designs. Some specialty designs carry a higher personalization fee of up to $100. This fee comes in addition to your regular registration cost. Confirm the exact fee for your chosen design before submitting your application.

    Specialty and Alternative Design Plates

    Alaska offers several alternative plate designs beyond the standard yellow background. The Caribou plate and the Mountain plate each cost $30. Other specialty plates support universities, causes, and organizations across the state. Each specialty design still requires your standard registration fees.

    Popular Specialty Categories

    • Alumni association plates let drivers show support for their university.
    • Wildlife conservation plates support habitat and conservation programs statewide.
    • Veteran and military plates honor service members and require proof of eligibility.
    • Nonprofit and organizational plates are also available for qualifying groups.

    Two Plates Required on Most Vehicles

    Alaska statute AS 28.10.171 requires you to display one license plate on the back of all passenger vehicles, motorcycles, motorhomes, trucks, vans, trailers, and APVs (though note that standard commercial vehicles over 10,001 pounds require a front plate). Mount both plates securely so they remain clearly legible at all times.

    Checking Plate Availability

    Run a quick plate lookup before submitting a personalized plate request via the official Alaska DMV Akplate portal. This search shows whether your desired combination is already taken. A plate becomes available again once it has been off a vehicle or expired for over 60 days. You can request an active plate directly from its current holder using a signed release form.

    Plates for Trailers and Motor Homes

    Trailers require only a rear plate under Alaska law. Motor homes follow the same rules as standard passenger vehicles. Both vehicle types can use standard, personalized, or specialty designs. Registration fees for trailers and motor homes differ from passenger car fees.

    Plates for Commercial Vehicles

    Commercial vehicles use their own plate format tied to their registration class. Fees are based on the vehicle's unladen weight rather than a flat rate. Business owners can still request specialty designs for qualifying commercial vehicles. Contact the Alaska DMV website for commercial plate requirements specific to your fleet.

    Applying for a License Plate

    Submit your application by mail, online, or in person at a DMV office. Standard plates are issued automatically during your vehicle's registration. Personalized and specialty plates require Form 803 along with any needed supporting documents. Processing for personalized plates can take up to four months.

    How Alaska's Plate Design Has Changed

    The yellow and blue color scheme has represented Alaska for many years. Reflective coatings were added over time to improve nighttime visibility. Design updates periodically refresh the plate's border and graphics. The core yellow background and blue lettering have remained consistent.

    Plates for New Alaska Residents

    New residents must title and register their vehicle within 10 days of establishing residency. This registration includes issuance of your new Alaska license plates. Bring your out-of-state title and registration to your DMV visit. You may drive on a valid out-of-state registration for up to 60 days before this deadline applies.

    Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged Plate

    Apply for duplicate plates if your standard plate is lost or damaged. Submit your application online for the same cost as your original personalized plate if that plate needs replacing. Report a stolen plate to local police before requesting a replacement. A temporary tag may be issued while your new plate is processed.

    Rules for Personalized Plate Messages

    The Alaska DMV reviews every personalized plate request for appropriateness. Messages cannot be demeaning toward any group of people. Vulgar, violent, or criminal references are automatically rejected. Report any plate you believe violates these rules directly to the DMV via email at doa.dmv.webmaster@alaska.gov for investigation.

    Transferring a Plate to Another Vehicle

    Personalized plates can transfer to a different vehicle you own and register. Standard issue plates are not transferable between vehicles. Submit a Vehicle Transaction Application noting your request to transfer. Include the complete and correct plate number in your submission.

    Displaying Your Plate Correctly

    Mount each plate flat against the vehicle in its designated location. Do not use a cover or frame that obscures any character. Alaska's cold weather can cause snow and ice buildup on plates. Clear your plate regularly so it stays fully readable to officers and cameras.

    Collecting Alaska License Plates

    Alaska does not sell used license plates to the public. Collectors can instead select from four plate styles for $10 each. These are useful for a personal collection or a school project. Check out the options through the Alaska DMV License Plates page.

    Plates on Vehicles With Registration Exemptions

    Some Alaska residents qualify for a registration fee exemption, such as seniors. Exempt vehicles still receive a valid license plate at registration. A plate marked with a special tab may indicate exempt status. Surrender an exempt vehicle's plate to the DMV if the vehicle is sold or replaced.

    Choose the Right Alaska Plate for Your Vehicle

    Most drivers start with the standard yellow and blue plate at registration. Upgrade to a personalized or specialty design if you want something more distinct. Check availability before applying and keep your documents ready. Contact your local DMV office or visit the official Alaska DMV website with any questions about a specific plate category.