How To Get a Car Title in Alaska 2026
Alaska mandates that every owner of a vehicle subject to registration in the state must apply for a certificate of title under AS 28.10.201. The Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles, operating under the Department of Administration, is the state agency responsible for issuing vehicle titles and maintaining ownership records for motor vehicles registered throughout Alaska.
Where to Apply for an Alaska Certificate of Title
Applications for an Alaska certificate of title must be submitted through authorized processing locations. Designated locations include:
- State DMV Offices – Staffed facilities located in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau, and other major communities throughout Alaska
- Contract Agent Offices – Authorized municipal and local government offices operating in smaller communities
- Mail-In Processing – Applications may be submitted by mail to the DMV Headquarters in Anchorage
Required Documents for Title Application in Alaska
To complete an application for an Alaska certificate of title, applicants must provide specific supporting documentation to establish ownership and comply with state requirements.
Primary Documentation
| Document Type | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO) or Previous Title | Must be in the applicant's name or properly assigned to the applicant | Vehicle must be physically located in Alaska at time of application unless submitting an MCO or out-of-state title |
| Completed Application Form V1 | Vehicle Transaction Application must be fully completed and signed in ink | Available from DMV offices or downloadable from the DMV website |
| Odometer Disclosure | Required for vehicles under 12,000 pounds and less than 20 years old | Must be recorded on title or on separate Form V6 disclosure |
Additional Documentation Requirements
Depending on the specific transaction, additional documentation may be required:
| Document Type | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lien Release | Required when previous title shows an unreleased lienholder | Paid-off statements are not acceptable; must be formal release letter |
| Power of Attorney Form 847 | Required when another person signs on behalf of owner | Must be notarized; mandatory for leased vehicles |
| Verification of Vehicle Form 811 | Vehicle identification verification | Required when MCO or title is unavailable; free at state DMV offices |
| Federal Safety Compliance Letter | Verify compliance with safety standards | Required for vehicles model year 1981 or newer lacking permanent compliance label per 2 AAC 92.020 |
Alaska Title Fees and Costs
The Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles assesses standardized fees for title transactions and related services.
Standard Title Fees
| Title Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Original Certificate of Title | $15.00 |
| Duplicate Title | $15.00 |
| Title Transfer | $15.00 |
| Lien Recording | $15.00 |
Additional Processing Fees
Applicants should be aware of potential additional costs:
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walk-In Service Fee | $10.00 | May be charged for in-person transactions at certain locations |
| Registration Fees | Varies by vehicle type and location | Calculated based on vehicle characteristics and taxable location |
| Contract Agent Fees | Varies | Some authorized agents may charge additional service fees |
Step-by-Step Title Application Process
Step 1: Verify Vehicle Location and Gather Documents
Ensure the vehicle is physically located in Alaska at the time of application unless you are an Alaska resident submitting a Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin or out-of-state title. Collect the previous title or MCO, properly released and assigned to you, along with any supporting transfer documents such as bills of sale or dealer purchase agreements.
Step 2: Complete the Application Form
Obtain and complete Vehicle Transaction Application Form V1 in full. The application must include your complete mailing address and Alaska residence address. Enter lienholder information in the "Other Information" section if you are making payments to a financial institution or individual. All vehicle owners must sign the application in ink.
Step 3: Prepare Required Odometer Disclosure
For vehicles under 12,000 pounds and less than 20 years old, ensure the odometer reading at the time of sale is properly recorded on the title assignment or complete a separate Form V6 Odometer Disclosure. Failure to provide accurate odometer information will result in the odometer status being recorded as "Unknown" on the Alaska title.
Step 4: Calculate and Submit Fees
Determine the correct title and registration fees using the online fee calculator. Submit your completed application, supporting documents, and payment by check or money order made payable to "State of Alaska DMV" to any state DMV office or authorized contract agent. For mail-in applications, send all materials to the Anchorage headquarters address:
State of Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles ATTN: CORRESPONDENCE 4001 Ingra Street, Suite 101 Anchorage AK 99503
Step 5: Receive Your Title
Once the application is processed and approved, the Alaska title will be mailed to the address shown on the application. If a lienholder is recorded, the title will be mailed directly to the lienholder. For leased vehicles, the title is sent to the lessor. Processing time typically ranges from six to eight weeks from the date all correct documentation is received by the division.
Exemptions from Title Requirements
Certain vehicles are exempt from Alaska's certificate of title requirements:
- Off-highway vehicles, including all-terrain vehicles and snowmachines
- Special mobile equipment as defined by Alaska statutes
- Camper shells and slide-in campers
Contact Information
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
4001 Ingra Street, Suite 101, Anchorage, AK 99503
Phone: (907) 269-5551
Official Website: Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
