The Alaska DMV road test

What the road test checks

It’s just you and the examiner in the car, and the DMV asks for enough fuel for a 30-minute drive. You’ll be scored on parallel parking in a 10 by 30 foot space marked with cones, backing, a quick stop, a three-point turn, turns and lane changes, getting on and off a freeway, signs and signals, intersections, speed control and following distance. A traffic violation, an unsafe move or refusing a task ends the test. If you fail, you normally wait two business days before you can retest.

The knowledge and vision tests come first

The written knowledge test covers what’s in the Alaska Driver Manual, the free DMV handbook (the current edition is dated October 2025): traffic laws, safe driving and road signs. State law also requires it to test what you know about alcohol, drugs and driving, DUI laws, and Alaska’s insurance rules. You can take it at a DMV office or online at home through the DMV’s online knowledge test system if you’re 16 or older. If you fail, you can try again the next day. For what’s on the test and how to study for it, see our Alaska DMV permit test guide.

Everyone also takes a vision test before any permit or license, including renewals and duplicates. You need at least 20/40 vision in each eye or with both eyes together, with glasses or contacts if you wear them (you’ll then have to wear them to drive). A signed statement from a licensed physician or optometrist can replace the test.

How to book and what to bring

1. Book online through the DMV road test scheduler or by calling 907-269-5551. Some offices take bookings up to 60 days ahead. The DMV road test fee is $15, paid when you book, and it isn’t refundable. You can reschedule for free up to 24 hours before.
2. Or book with an approved third-party tester. Many driving schools and DMV business partners give road tests, often with their own car and more flexible hours. They set their own prices.
3. Bring your permit (or knowledge test result from the last year), your glasses if your permit says you need them, the car, current insurance showing the vehicle and VIN, and the printed registration. Under 18, a parent or guardian comes with proof of relationship, or you bring a notarized Form 433.
4. Check the car: all lights working, no cracks in the driver’s or examiner’s view, working wipers, defroster, horn and mirrors, good tires and brakes, a back plate with current tabs, and at least a quarter tank. Mirrored or aftermarket window tint isn’t allowed.
5. After you pass, go to a DMV office or license-processing business partner to get your license.