How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Alaska
Keeping your address current with the Alaska DMV (Division of Motor Vehicles) is critical for staying legal on the road and making sure you receive important state notices. Your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and title records must reflect your correct residence so that tickets, renewal notices, and suspension notices are mailed to the right place.
Alaska law generally requires drivers to update their address promptly after moving. If you fail to file a DMV change of address in Alaska, you risk:
- Missing renewal reminders and letting your license or registration expire
- Not receiving traffic or court notices, which can result in late fees or license action
- Possible citations for having outdated information on your driver’s license or registration
For the most precise deadlines and penalties, always refer directly to the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles website at doa.alaska.gov/dmv, as rules can change.
Nationwide tools like DMVChangeofAddress.com help you understand state-by-state DMV change of address requirements, compare methods, and prepare your information before you use the official Alaska DMV change of address form (AK) or online system. Think of it as a planning and checklist resource that makes it easier to follow each state’s rules correctly.
Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to every major way to complete an Alaska DMV change of address, including online, by mail, and in person, plus eligibility, documentation, and contact information.
Why Your Address Matters for Alaska DMV Records
When you move within Alaska or relocate into the state, you should complete a DMV change of address “Alaska” for:
- Driver’s licenses and IDs – Your license record (and often the card) needs your current address so law enforcement and courts can contact you.
- Vehicle registrations and titles – The registered owner’s address is used for renewal notices, tax or fee notifications, and recall or safety notices where applicable.
- Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) – CDL holders must maintain accurate records for compliance with both state and sometimes federal requirements.
Key reasons to update quickly:
- Legal compliance – Driving with outdated information can lead to tickets or complications in court.
- Insurance accuracy – Many insurers require that the address on your policy matches what appears in registration and state records.
- Timely mail delivery – Renewal postcards, suspension notices, or toll/traffic letters are sent to the address on file. Missing them can mean extra fees or suspensions.
Check the Alaska DMV website for any references to timeframes to report an address change; while many states use a 10–30 day standard, you should always confirm the current rule at doa.alaska.gov/dmv before you move or immediately after settling into your new address.
Who Must Report an Address Change in Alaska
In general, you should complete an Alaska DMV change of address if any of the following apply:
Alaska Residents
You must report a change if you are:
- An Alaska-licensed driver with a standard driver’s license, learner’s permit, or state-issued ID card
- A vehicle owner with an Alaska registration or title (passenger vehicle, truck, motorcycle, trailer, RV, etc.)
- A commercial driver holding an Alaska CDL or CLP (commercial learner’s permit)
If you have multiple vehicles, you may need to ensure each registration is updated.
New Residents Moving to Alaska
If you move from another state and become a resident of Alaska, you typically need to:
- Apply for an Alaska driver’s license
- Register and title your vehicles in Alaska
Part of this process involves providing your current Alaska residential address. In practice, this functions as your initial DMV address record. Afterward, any additional moves should trigger a new Alaska DMV change of address form submission or online update.
Documents and Information You’ll Typically Need
When completing a DMV change of address Alaska update online, by mail, or in person, be prepared with:
- Full legal name
- Alaska driver’s license or ID number (or permit/CDL number)
- Date of birth
- Old address currently on Alaska DMV records
- New residential address (and mailing address if different)
- Vehicle information, if updating registrations:
- License plate number
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
- Year, make, and model
In some cases—especially in-person—you may be asked for proof of your new Alaska address, such as:
- Recent utility bill
- Lease or rental agreement
- Mortgage or property tax document
- Bank or credit card statement
- Pay stub, employment letter, or similar documentation
Always verify current documentation requirements on the official Alaska DMV pages before you go to an office or send anything by mail.
Method 1: Change Your Address Online Through the Official Alaska DMV Website
When available for your record type, the online method is usually the fastest and most convenient way to complete an Alaska DMV change of address.
Where to Start
You can begin at the Alaska DMV official website:
- Alaska DMV main site:https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/
From there, navigate to Online Services or any listed Change of Address option. These pages are run directly by the State of Alaska (.gov domain), which ensures you are using an official and secure system.
Typical Eligibility for Online Address Changes
Online address changes are commonly available for:
- Holders of a valid Alaska driver’s license, permit, or ID card
- Many standard passenger vehicle registrations
You may be restricted from using online services if:
- Your license is suspended, revoked, or canceled
- You have outstanding issues such as unpaid tickets that block changes
- Your license has expired past a certain grace period
- The name or other key identity details on file don’t match the online information you enter
If online services indicate you are not eligible, you may need to complete your Alaska DMV change of address form by mail or in person instead.
Step-by-Step Online Process
Specific screens may change over time, but the general process usually looks like this:
Visit the Alaska DMV site
- Go to doa.alaska.gov/dmv and click on Online Services or a Change of Address link.
Log in or identify yourself
- Enter your Alaska driver’s license or ID number, date of birth, and possibly the last four digits of your SSN (if requested).
Select the records to update
- Indicate whether you are updating your driver’s license/ID, vehicle registration, or both. Some systems update both automatically; others require you to confirm.
Enter your new address
- Provide your new physical address in Alaska.
- If your mailing address differs (for example, you use a P.O. Box), enter it where prompted.
Review and certify
- Carefully confirm that both old and new addresses are correct.
- Certify that the information is true and accurate.
Submit the request
- Click Submit or equivalent. Some systems immediately confirm the change, while others may indicate processing time.
Save or print confirmation
- If a confirmation page or email is generated, save or print it. This can serve as temporary proof you submitted your Alaska DMV change of address.
Fees, Processing, and New Documents
- Address update only – Many states do not charge a fee simply to update the address in the system.
- New license or ID card – If you request a replacement card showing the new address, a duplicate license/ID fee may apply.
- New registration card – Similarly, a replacement registration card or sticker may have a small fee.
Processing time for online changes is typically:
- Immediate system update, visible in DMV records
- Mailed physical documents (if ordered) may take a few days to several weeks, depending on current DMV workload and mail times
Confirm current fee amounts and mailing timelines on the Alaska DMV online services pages.
Method 2: Change Your Address by Mail Using the Alaska DMV Change of Address Form
If you prefer paper or are ineligible for online services, you can usually change your address by mail using an official Alaska DMV change of address form (AK).
Finding the Official Form
The Alaska DMV posts official forms on its .gov website. A common starting point is:
- Alaska DMV Forms & Manuals / Change of Address page:
Visit https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/ and navigate to Forms or Change of Address to locate the official DMV change of address “Alaska” form.
Use only forms hosted on the Alaska state government domain (.gov) to ensure they are valid and up to date.
How to Complete the Form
While the exact form layout can change, you will typically need to:
Download and print the form
- Save it from the Alaska DMV website.
- Print clearly on white paper.
Fill out your personal information
- Full legal name
- Driver’s license, permit, or ID number
- Date of birth
- Contact phone and/or email, if requested
Provide old and new addresses
- Old address as it appears in DMV records
- New Alaska physical address
- Separate mailing address if different
List vehicle information (if applicable)
- For each vehicle you want to update:
- License plate number
- VIN (if requested)
- Year, make, model
- For each vehicle you want to update:
Sign and date the form
- Unsigned forms may be rejected or delayed.
Include any requested documentation
- If the form or instructions mention proof of address, attach copies of acceptable documents.
Mailing the Form
The form itself will typically provide a mailing address for the appropriate Alaska DMV processing center (for example, an address in Juneau, Anchorage, or another central office). Because mailing addresses and PO Boxes can change, always rely on the address printed on the current official form, not an address from a third-party site.
When mailing:
- Use a standard envelope and sufficient postage
- Consider using trackable mail if you are on a deadline or need proof of delivery
- Keep a copy of the completed form for your records
Fees and Processing Time by Mail
- Updating records only may be free.
- Requesting a new physical license, ID, or registration card may involve replacement fees. These may require including a check or money order, or they may instruct you to pay via another method.
Mail processing typically takes longer than online, due to:
- Postal delivery time to the DMV
- Internal processing and data entry
- Mailing of any new documents back to you
Plan for several weeks from the date you mail the form to receiving new documents, especially if you live in a remote Alaska community.
Method 3: Change Your Address In Person at an Alaska DMV Office
Some people prefer to handle an Alaska DMV change of addressin person, particularly if:
- You cannot complete online or by mail
- You need same-day confirmation or an immediate replacement license/ID
- You have complex issues such as name changes, suspensions, or mismatched records
Finding an Alaska DMV Office and Hours
The most accurate way to find office locations and hours is:
- Alaska DMV Office Locator:
Visit https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/office.htm
This official office locator page (.gov) lists:
- Physical addresses for DMV locations
- Phone numbers
- Hours of operation and any special notes (limited services, closures, etc.)
Scheduling an Appointment (If Available)
Some Alaska DMV offices offer appointments for certain services, which can drastically reduce your wait time. From the main DMV or office pages, look for:
- “Schedule an Appointment” or
- Online appointment system links
If appointments are not available in your area, you may need to walk in and take a number. Consider checking:
- Typical busy times (mornings, lunch hours, early in the week)
- Whether specific days are reserved for road tests or special services
What to Bring to an In-Person Visit
To complete an in-person DMV change of address Alaska, bring:
- Your current Alaska driver’s license, permit, or ID card
- Any relevant vehicle registration cards
- Proof of your new address, such as:
- Utility bill, lease, mortgage, pay stub, bank statement, or similar
- Completed Alaska DMV change of address form, if you downloaded and filled it out ahead of time (optional but can save time)
- Payment method for any replacement card or processing fees (check the DMV website for accepted methods—cash, check, credit/debit, etc.)
What to Expect During the Visit
Check in at the front desk or number system
- Indicate that you need to update your address and possibly request replacement documents (license, ID, registration).
Submit your documents
- Provide your license, form, and proof of address to the clerk.
Confirm updates
- The clerk will process the address change in their system.
- If everything matches and you’re eligible, your records will be updated on the spot.
Request replacement cards, if desired
- If you want a new driver’s license or ID printed with your new address, you’ll typically:
- Have a new photo taken (if required)
- Pay any applicable duplicate card fee
- For registrations, you may receive a new card or sticker.
- If you want a new driver’s license or ID printed with your new address, you’ll typically:
Leave with immediate proof (in many cases)
- You may leave with a temporary document valid until the official card arrives in the mail, or you may receive the new card immediately, depending on local office practices.
Summary Table: Methods, Times, Fees, and Documents
| Method | Processing Time | Fees (if any) | Required Documents / Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | Usually immediate system update; mailed cards, if ordered, may take days–weeks | Possible duplicate license/ID or registration fees if you request new physical documents | License/ID number, DOB, SSN (if requested), old & new addresses, vehicle info (plate/VIN) if updating registrations |
| By Mail | Several weeks including mail time both ways | Address update may be free; replacement card/registration fees if requested | Completed Alaska DMV change of address form, signature, possible proof of address, check/money order if required |
| In Person | System updated same day; new cards often same day or mailed shortly after | Standard duplicate license/ID/registration fees for new printed documents | Current license/ID, vehicle registrations, proof of new address, completed form (optional), payment method |
Comparison Table: Pros and Cons of Each Method
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Online | • Fast, convenient from home • Often immediate system update • No travel or waiting room time | • Not available for all record types or problem cases • Requires internet access and some technical comfort |
| By Mail | • Good for remote areas or if you can’t go in person • Paper trail you can copy and keep | • Slowest overall • Risk of mail delays or lost mail • Harder to correct errors quickly |
| In Person | • Same-day processing • Staff can answer questions and handle complex issues • Can obtain new cards immediately in many cases | • Travel time and possible long waits • Limited office hours • May require taking time off work |
Alaska DMV Contact Information and Office Locator
Because phone numbers, hours, and addresses can change, rely on the official Alaska DMV contact resources:
Alaska DMV main website:
https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/Alaska DMV Office Locator (official link):
https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/office.htm
On the office locator page, you can find:
- Individual office phone numbers
- Physical and mailing addresses
- Hours of operation and any temporary changes or closures
Use these pages to confirm whether your local office:
- Requires or allows appointments
- Offers walk-in hours
- Provides specific services you need (e.g., CDL, testing, titling)
Practical Tips for a Smooth Alaska DMV Change of Address
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Don’t wait too long after you move.
Many drivers forget until the next renewal. Report your Alaska DMV change of address as soon as possible to avoid missing important mail.Verify the spelling of your new address.
A small typo in a street name or apartment number can send your new license or registration to the wrong place.Use official forms and websites only.
Always confirm you are on a .gov site for the Alaska DMV change of address form and online services.Update all affected records.
If you have multiple vehicles, check that each registration is updated. Some systems let you update all at once; others require a separate entry.
Confirming Your Update Status
Online method:
- Look for an on-screen confirmation and/or email.
- If the Alaska DMV offers an online account or status check, log in after a few days to verify your address on file.
By mail method:
- Allow reasonable mail and processing time.
- If you don’t receive anything back within the expected window, use the office locator to call your nearest DMV and ask if the change has posted.
In-person method:
- Ask the clerk to confirm your new address on screen.
- If you receive a temporary license or receipt, keep it with you until the permanent document arrives.
Knowing When to Expect New Documents
Driver’s license or ID:
- After an in-person visit, you may receive a temporary paper license and get the new plastic card by mail in days to weeks.
- For online or mail changes, if you request a replacement card, expect mail delivery time plus processing.
Vehicle registration card and stickers:
- If updated and reissued, they may be printed same day in person or mailed to you, usually within a few weeks.
CDL and commercial documents:
- Processing may be slightly more complex due to federal and state regulations. Plan additional time and always carry any temporary documents provided.
How DMVChangeofAddress.com Fits Into the Process
The official Alaska DMV remains the only authority that can legally change your DMV records, but DMVChangeofAddress.com helps you:
- Understand which method (online, mail, in-person) best fits your situation
- Learn what the Alaska DMV change of address form is likely to ask for before you sit down to complete it
- Keep track of deadlines, required documents, and state-specific rules when you move within Alaska or between different U.S. states
Because each state has different procedures, DMVChangeofAddress.com serves as a nationwide reference, helping you:
- Avoid missed steps and avoidable rejections
- Prepare supporting documents and identification correctly
- Smoothly navigate address changes if you relocate more than once
Keeping Your Alaska DMV Records Current Going Forward
After your DMV change of address Alaska is completed:
- Double-check all new cards (license, ID, registration) as soon as they arrive. Confirm your name, address, and vehicle details are printed correctly.
- Notify your auto insurer and other related agencies (e.g., toll authorities, local property tax offices if applicable) of your address change so all records stay aligned.
- If you move again—whether within Alaska or out of state—treat updating your DMV records as a priority item on your moving checklist.
Keeping an accurate address on file with the Alaska DMV helps you stay legally compliant and ensures that critical notices reach you on time. By combining official state tools—like the Alaska DMV’s online services, change of address forms, and office locator—with planning resources such as DMVChangeofAddress.com, you can handle each move with more confidence and far less hassle, no matter where the road takes you next.
