If you’re a senior living in Alaska and your driver’s license is nearing its expiration date, it’s time to renew it! Whether you’re renewing in person, by mail, or online, this guide provides all the details you need to ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal process.
Read on for step-by-step instructions on how to renew your driver’s license in Alaska in 2025.
How to Renew Your Driver’s License in Alaska
In Alaska, there are multiple ways to renew your driver’s license, including in person, by mail, and online. The method you choose depends on your eligibility and personal situation. Here’s a breakdown of all three options.
Renewing Your License In Person
If you choose to renew your driver’s license in person at the local DMV office, here’s what you need to do:
- Fill Out the Form
Complete the necessary renewal form available at the DMV. - Provide Required Documents
Bring the following documents:- One primary document (e.g., your current driver’s license, passport, or birth certificate).
- One secondary document (e.g., school ID, health insurance card, or employee ID).
- Proof of residence (e.g., a utility bill, paycheck stub, or rental documents).
- Proof of name change (if applicable). Note: You must update your name with Social Security before the DMV can process your name change.
- Immigration status documents (for non-U.S. citizens).
- Pass a Vision Test
A vision test is mandatory during the renewal process. - Complete Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test
If you haven’t taken the alcohol and drug awareness test yet, you’ll need to do so. This applies unless you obtained your Alaska driver’s license before October 21, 2008. - Surrender Your Current License
Hand over your old driver’s license to the DMV. - Take Your Photo and Pay Fees
You’ll have your photo taken and will need to pay the $20 renewal fee. Payments can be made by Visa, MasterCard, personal check, or money order. - Receive Temporary License
After completing the steps, you will get a temporary license. Your new license should arrive by mail within two weeks.
Note: If you are under 21, your license automatically expires 90 days after your 21st birthday. In such cases, you must pass the alcohol and drug awareness test before renewing.
Renewing Your License By Mail
Renewing by mail is available under the following conditions:
- You are over 22 years old.
- Your personal details have not changed since your last renewal.
- You didn’t renew by mail during your last renewal.
If you live in a rural area with no local DMV office, you may also be eligible to renew by mail.
Here’s what you need to do to renew by mail:
- Pass a Vision Test
Visit a doctor, nurse, or another qualified individual to pass your vision test. - Complete the Renewal Form
Fill out the form (Form 480) and gather the required documents listed in the form. - Pay the Renewal Fee
Pay the $21 renewal fee. - Mail the Application
Send your completed form and supporting documents to:
Juneau Driver Services
State of Alaska, Division of Motor Vehicles
PO Box 110221
Juneau, AK 99811-0221
Renewing Your License Online
If you’re eligible, you can renew your Alaska driver’s license online. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria:
- Your personal information hasn’t changed since your last renewal.
- You didn’t renew by mail during your last renewal.
- You are a U.S. citizen and your citizenship status has not changed.
- Your license has not been revoked or suspended.
- You are between 21 and 68 years old.
- If you are under 21, you have passed the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test.
If you are nearing your 21st birthday and haven’t completed the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test, you can request the test by contacting the DMV. Once you complete the test, you can renew your license online.
Note: If you have been attending college outside Alaska and haven’t completed the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Test, you can still renew online once the test is passed.
License Renewal Fees in Alaska
- In-person renewal fee: $20
- Mail renewal fee: $21
Be sure to confirm the current fees on the official DMV website before proceeding with your renewal.
Renewing your Alaska driver’s license in 2025 is simple when you follow the correct steps. Whether you’re renewing in person, by mail, or online, the process is straightforward.
Remember to check eligibility requirements for each option, gather the necessary documents, and complete any required tests. By staying on top of your renewal, you’ll avoid unnecessary fines and ensure you remain legal on the roads.
