How to Renew Motor Vehicle Registration in Alaska?
Vehicle registration renewal is required for all Alaska residents to maintain legal driving privileges. The Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles oversees the state's vehicle registration system, while DMV offices and contract agents handle registration services throughout the state.
Alaska Vehicle Registration Renewal Requirements
Essential Documentation and Requirements
Alaska vehicle owners must satisfy the following requirements when renewing their registration:
- Valid Liability Insurance: Proof of current insurance meeting Alaska minimum requirements of $50,000 for bodily injury or death of one person, $100,000 for bodily injury or death per accident, and $25,000 for property damage
- Vehicle Identification: Current registration card, Alaska license plate number, or registration renewal notice
- Government-Issued Photo ID: Current Alaska driver's license or state-issued identification card for all registered owners
- Application Form: Application for Title & Registration (Form V1) when required
Renewal Timeline and Grace Period
- Biennial Registration System: Alaska registers vehicles for two-year periods with assigned expiration months that remain consistent even when ownership changes
- Early Renewal Opportunity: Vehicle owners may renew registration up to three months before expiration date to ensure continuity
- New Residents: Must register within 10 days of establishing Alaska residency or taking employment in the state
- Non-Resident Grace Period: Non-residents may operate vehicles with current out-of-state registration for 60 days maximum
Alaska Registration Expiration and Renewal Schedule
Vehicle registration expiration is determined when the vehicle is first registered in Alaska and maintains the same month regardless of ownership changes:
Registration Duration Standards:
- Standard Renewal: Two-year registration period for all non-commercial vehicles
- Expired Less Than One Year: Registration renewed for two years from original expiration date, full biennial fee required
- Expired More Than One Year: New expiration month assigned, registration valid for two years from new date
- Commercial Vehicle Options: Commercial vehicles may register for 12-month or 24-month periods with prorated fees
Note: Vehicles registered under exemptions (Senior, Disability, Military) may require new registration when exemption no longer applies or ownership transfers.
How Much Is Car Registration Renewal in Alaska in 2025
2025 Alaska Vehicle Registration Fee Schedule
The following table shows the registration fees established by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles:
| Vehicle Type | Weight/Classification | Registration Fee (Biennial) |
|---|---|---|
| Passenger cars, pickups, cargo vans | All weights | $100 |
| Motorcycles | All weights | $68 |
| Motor homes | All weights | $100 |
| Farm vehicles | Up to 20,000 lbs | $68 |
| All-Purpose Vehicles (APV) | All weights | $30 |
| Off-Highway vehicles | 1, 2, or 3 seasons | $10 per season |
Commercial Vehicle Registration Fees
| Vehicle Type | Weight Classification | Biennial Fee | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial vehicles | 0 – 5,000 pounds | $180 | $90 |
| Commercial vehicles | 5,001 – 12,000 pounds | $268 | $134 |
| Commercial vehicles | 12,001 – 18,000 pounds | $516 | $258 |
| Commercial vehicles | 18,001 pounds and over | $662 | $331 |
| Commercial trailers | One-time registration | $20 | N/A |
Specialty Vehicle Registration Fees
| Vehicle Type | Registration Fee |
|---|---|
| Tour buses | $300 |
| Taxicabs | $160 |
| Hearses and ambulances | $60 |
Additional Mandatory Fees
Registration transactions comprise multiple fee components:
| Fee Component | Amount | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Base registration fee | Varies by vehicle type | Primary registration fee |
| Title issuance | $15 | When title required |
| Lien recording | $15 | When lienholder present |
| In-person service fee | $10 | Additional fee for walk-in renewals |
| Specialty plate transfer | $5 | When transferring specialty plates |
| Duplicate registration | $2 | Replacement registration documents |
| Motor Vehicle Registration Tax (MVRT) | Variable | Property tax based on vehicle location, type, and age |
Motor Vehicle Registration Tax Calculation: MVRT is assessed by municipalities and boroughs that have elected this form of personal property tax. Tax rates vary significantly by location and vehicle characteristics. The 2025 MVRT fee schedule provides detailed rates by jurisdiction.
How To Renew Vehicle Registration Online in Alaska
Online Renewal Availability
Online registration renewal is available through the Alaska DMV Online Services Portal. The online system provides 24/7 access and is the most cost-effective renewal method, avoiding the $10 in-person service fee.
Online Renewal Eligibility
Vehicle owners qualify for online renewal when:
- Current registration is not expired or expired less than one year
- Vehicle registration was not obtained under an exemption (except military exemption)
- Vehicle is not changing from non-commercial to commercial use
- All required insurance coverage remains current
Online Renewal Process
Step 1: Access Online Portal
- Visit the Alaska DMV Online Gateway
- Create account or log in with existing credentials
- Verify personal information and current address
Step 2: Enter Vehicle Information
- Provide registration renewal notice number (if available)
- Alternative: Enter license plate number and last two digits of VIN
- Verify vehicle details displayed match your records
Step 3: Confirm Insurance Coverage
- Certify current liability insurance coverage meeting Alaska requirements
- System verifies insurance information electronically where possible
- Ensure coverage remains active throughout registration period
Step 4: Review Fees and Complete Payment
- Review all applicable fees including registration fee and MVRT (if applicable)
- Submit payment using credit or debit card
- Receive electronic confirmation and temporary registration
Step 5: Receive Registration Materials
- Print temporary registration for immediate use
- New registration certificate and decal mailed within 5-7 business days
- Update address if necessary to ensure proper delivery
Alternative Renewal Methods
Mail-In Renewal
Submit the following documents to your local Alaska DMV office:
- Completed renewal application or previous registration certificate
- Proof of current Alaska liability insurance coverage
- Payment for all applicable registration fees and taxes
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for return of documents
In-Person Renewal
Visit any Alaska DMV office or authorized contract agent with:
- Current registration certificate or renewal notice
- Alaska driver's license or state-issued identification
- Proof of current liability insurance coverage
- Payment for renewal fees (includes additional $10 walk-in fee)
Permanent Registration Options: Alaska residents aged 65 or older, individuals with permanent mobility disabilities, disabled veterans, and other qualified individuals may pay for permanent z-tab registration.
Contact Information
Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles
2760 Sherwood Lane, Suite B, Juneau, AK 99801
Phone: (907) 269-5551
Website
Alaska DMV operates state offices and contract agent locations throughout Alaska. Locate your nearest service location using the Alaska DMV Office Directory. Many offices provide appointment scheduling through the online portal to reduce wait times.
