Alaska License Plates FAQ

Q:
Why is the 1921 Alaska license plate so relatively rare?

This plate is unique since it was produced in the first year the US government forced Alaska citizens to register their vehicles.

Q:
Is Alaska a two-plate state?

Yes. Alaska requires both license plates attached to the front and rear sides of the vehicles. On the rare plate, a month and year tab must be visible. Only motorcycles and trailers have a single license plate that includes month and year tabs.

Q:
What does the letter Z on an Alaska license plate mean?

It’s a sign of permanent registration. Beginning in January 2015, if you live in an unorganized municipality or an organized municipality that passes an ordinance to participate, you may be eligible for permanent registration for your non-commercial trailer or 8-year-old or older car. You will be given a permanent "Z" tab and will no longer need to renew your registration.

Q:
When do studded tires have to be removed?

Each year the local authorities send a notice to residents to remove the studded tires. As of 2022, they reminded Alaskans residing below the 60-degree north latitude line that their studded tires must be removed by April 15.

Q:
I'm thinking about taking a trip to Alaska or relocating to Alaska. When do I need to get an Alaska automobile registration?

If you are working or establishing residency in Alaska, you must apply for registration within 10 days of entering the state or accepting a job there.

Q:
Can I get a sample of Alaska license plates?

DMV does not have the authority to sell new or previously used standard-issue license plates. A SAMPLE plate, produced especially for you as a keepsake, is available.

Q:
I've made a trip outside of Alaska and bought a car. How can I get license plates or permission to return to Alaska with my car?

You can use Remote Alaska services if you are an Alaska resident and are away for about 50 miles from the road. In all other cases, you should get a temporary license from the state you have made the purchase in and get to Alaska. Here you must register the vehicle within 10 days.

Q:
What non-alphanumeric symbols (dash, period, etc.) can I use for my personalized plate?

In Alaska, you can use any combination of letters, numbers, and spaces from A to Z for your personalized license plate. In Alaska, ham radio call signs and special symbols like -, #, percent, and & are not permitted on personalized vanity license plates.

Q:
Are there any discounts on registration fees for senior citizens?

Yes. If you are an Alaska resident 65 or older, you may be eligible for an exemption from fees and taxes while registering a vehicle if it is a non-commercial vehicle and is titled by your name.

Q:
What factors go into determining a car owner's registration renewal month?

Vehicles are typically registered for two years. When a vehicle is first registered in Alaska, it is given an expiration date and that month is kept when ownership changes.

Q:
I'm currently stationed outside of Alaska as a member of the military. I am a resident of Alaska, and I need to renew my registration as soon as possible. So, what do I do now?

You may apply to renew the registration via mail. Just prepare the documents (proof of identity, copy of title and registration documents, request form, etc), make necessary payments, and attach checks to the letter.

Q:
I moved and did not receive a notice for my vehicle's renewal. What do I need to do to renew my registration?

Even if an Alaska resident will be temporarily out of state when their registration expires, they must renew their automobile registration in Alaska. If you haven't received the notice, go to the DMV website and renew your license online. Alternatively, you can check the due date with the DMV.

Q:
I've been outside of Alaska for vacation for military orders, or to attend college. Now I need to renew my vehicle's registration. What are the steps to take?

To renew your registration when being out of state you may simply mail the documents to the local DMV. This however concerns the military or college students.

Q:
Is it possible to request a specific month for registration renewal?

In all cases, the renewal date is determined by the registration date. It expires every two years. You may contact the local DMV for special cases.

Q:
I recently purchased a new vehicle and would like to transfer my license plates to it. How do I go about doing this?

Only Special Issue vehicles are allowed to be transferred. Both vehicles must be registered in your name to transfer license plates. Also, keep in mind that you are not allowed to transfer regular issue license plates.

Q:
How long is it legal to let a customized license plate expire before it can't be renewed?

Generally, it must be renewed no later than 12 months after the expiration date.

Q:
I am relocating to Alaska or am going to have a vacation in Alaska, must I obtain an Alaska driver’s license?

In Alaska, you are allowed to drive a car that is currently registered in another state for up to 60 days. After that, you'll need to get an Alaska registration. If you get a job in Alaska, you must register with the state within ten days.

Q:
I recently relocated from Alaska and require a copy of my driving record for an out-of-state driving license. Is it possible to get a copy?

Surely. You can simply log in to Alaska’s DMV portal and fill in the 419 Form.

Q:
Are there any discounts or price waivers available for Senior Citizens when ordering a license plate?

Yes, there is a fee waiver for citizens who are at least 65 years old. They can simply apply to the AK DMV with proof of identity.

Q:
Is it still possible to personalize a standard blue-and-yellow plate?

Anyone can personalize the license plates and choose the digit-letter combination they desire. There may be applicable fees to get personalized tags.

Q:
My driver’s license will expire while I am on vacation. How early am I allowed to renew?

You can renew your driver’s license within a year before it expires. Registration renewal can be done within two months before the due date.

Q:
Is it legal to simply show the license plate in the back window of a vehicle?

In short, NO. If you live in Alaska you have to attach your license plates to both front and back sides.

Q:
I renewed online and have yet to receive my registration and tab, even though it has been over two weeks. What am I supposed to do now?

Visit the Alaska DMV's website and send a message. The message must include your current mailing and residential addresses, as well as your license plate number. We'll look into it and let you know what you need to do to get the registration and tab.