How Much Does It Cost to Get a License Plate in Alaska in 2025?

Factors That Influence the Total License Plate Cost in Alaska

The cost of obtaining a license plate in Alaska is influenced by several factors, including the type of vehicle, the type of license plate, and any additional services or customizations requested. Below are the primary factors that affect the total cost:

• Vehicle Type: Different fees apply depending on whether the vehicle is a passenger car, motorcycle, commercial vehicle, or trailer.
• Plate Type: Standard plates typically cost less than specialty or personalized plates.
• Registration Period: The length of the registration period can affect the total cost, with options for one-year or two-year registrations.
• Additional Fees: Administrative fees, such as those for processing or mailing, may also apply.

Specialty License Plates in Alaska

Alaska offers a variety of specialty license plates that allow vehicle owners to express their interests or affiliations. These plates often come with additional fees, which contribute to specific causes or organizations. Some popular specialty plates include:

• Veteran Plates: Available to honorably discharged veterans, these plates may have a one-time fee of $30, with proceeds supporting veteran services.
• University Plates: Supporting local universities, these plates typically have an additional fee of $50, which goes towards educational programs.
• Wildlife Conservation Plates: Featuring Alaskan wildlife, these plates have an extra fee of $100, benefiting conservation efforts.

Personalized License Plates in Alaska

Personalized license plates allow vehicle owners to create custom messages or combinations of letters and numbers. The process and cost for obtaining personalized plates in Alaska are as follows:

• Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of $30 is required when submitting a personalized plate application.
• Annual Fee: An additional $30 annual fee is charged for maintaining the personalized plate.
• Character Limit: Personalized plates can have up to six characters for standard plates and five for motorcycle plates.

Alaska License Plate Renewal Fee

Renewing a license plate in Alaska involves paying a renewal fee, which varies based on the type of vehicle and plate. The renewal process can be completed online, by mail, or in person. Key points include:

• Passenger Vehicles: The standard renewal fee for passenger vehicles is $100 for a one-year registration.
• Motorcycles: The renewal fee for motorcycles is $60 for a one-year registration.
• Late Fees: A late fee of $10 is applied if the renewal is not completed by the expiration date.

Alaska License Plate Replacements Fee

In the event that a license plate is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement can be obtained for a fee. The replacement process includes:

• Replacement Fee: A standard fee of $5 is charged for replacing a lost or damaged plate.
• Duplicate Registration: If a duplicate registration is needed, an additional fee of $2 is required.
• Reporting: It is recommended to report stolen plates to local law enforcement before requesting a replacement.

How Much Is the Tag Transfer Fee in Alaska

When transferring a vehicle's license plate to a new owner or a different vehicle, a tag transfer fee is applicable. The details are as follows:

• Transfer Fee: The standard fee for transferring a license plate is $5.
• Eligibility: The transfer is only allowed if the new vehicle is registered in the same name as the previous owner.
• Documentation: Proper documentation, including proof of ownership and identification, is required to complete the transfer.

Exemptions and Discounts

Certain exemptions and discounts are available for specific groups or under particular circumstances, which can reduce the overall cost of license plates in Alaska:

• Senior Citizens: Residents aged 65 and older may qualify for reduced fees on standard plates.
• Disabled Veterans: Veterans with a service-connected disability may be eligible for free or reduced-cost plates.
• Non-Profit Organizations: Vehicles owned by qualifying non-profit organizations may receive exemptions from certain fees.

These exemptions and discounts are subject to verification and may require additional documentation to qualify.