What to Bring to the Alaska DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Call ahead to check if your local office requires an appointment
- →Fill out Form 478 online or print it to save time, but leave the signature blank
- →Arrive at least 15 minutes early to get your number
- →Study the Alaska Driver Manual thoroughly before you go
- →Make sure your parent/guardian knows they must come with you
- →Double-check that all documents are originals, not copies
- →Bring a snack for after you leave, not before
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- ✓Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
- ✓Valid Alaska Driver License or ID Card
Bring the original document only; photocopies are not accepted. If your name has changed, bring the marriage certificate or court order linking the names.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card
- ✓W-2 Form
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Paystub with full SSN
- ✓Military ID with SSN
Alaska requires proof of your SSN. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or paystub that shows your full number. If you have never been issued an SSN, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are ineligible.
Proof of Alaska Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Utility bill (electric, water, gas) in parent's name
- ✓Bank statement with Alaska address
- ✓School report card or transcript
- ✓Parent's Alaska Driver License or ID
- ✓Rental or lease agreement
- ✓Mail from a government agency
Since you are under 18, your parent's documents usually count for your residency. For a REAL ID, you typically need two different documents showing your Alaska address.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application form in front of the DMV examiner
- ✓Parent must provide their own proof of identity and residency
- ✓If parents are divorced, the custodial parent must sign
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency documentation
The parent or guardian MUST appear in person with you. They cannot just sign the paper at home and have you bring it; they have to sign it right there at the counter.
Fees & Payment
$15
This $15 fee covers the application and the learner's permit. It is valid for one year. If you fail the written test, there is a small fee to retake it, usually around $5-$10 depending on the location.
Accepted payment:
Forms
Application for Driver License or Identification Card (Form 478)
Available at: Alaska DMV office or downloadable from the Alaska DMV website
Do not sign the form until you are standing in front of the DMV examiner. If you sign it early, they will make you fill out a new one.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Your cell phone (turn it off or leave it in the car)
- ✗Large backpacks or bags (storage is limited)
- ✗Friends or siblings who aren't applying (they can't wait inside)
- ✗Pets (unless they are service animals)
- ✗Food or drinks
- ✗Your own pen (use the one provided to avoid ink issues)
- ✗Expired or photocopied documents
At the Office
- →The knowledge test is computer-based, so bring your reading glasses if you need them
- →You must pass the vision screening first before taking the written test
- →If you fail the written test, you can usually retake it the same day for a small fee
- →Once you pass, you'll get an interim paper permit immediately; the hard plastic card arrives by mail in a few weeks
- →Listen carefully to the examiner's instructions on the 50/50 rule (no passengers under 19 for the first 6 months)
Official Alaska DMV info: dot.alaska.gov/dmv
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