How to Change Your Address at the DMV in Alaska

Moving within Alaska means more than updating friends and utilities—you also need to update your address with the state’s driver licensing and vehicle registration agency. In Alaska, a correct address on file is especially important because of the state’s large rural areas, mail delivery issues, and weather-related delays.

This guide walks you through how an Alaska DMV change of address works for your license, ID card, vehicle registration, and title, with clear steps and Alaska‑specific tips.

Alaska State Verification Block

What the DMV is called in Alaska

In Alaska, driver and vehicle services are handled by the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), which is part of the state Department of Administration. When you see “Alaska DMV,” it’s referring to this division.

How services are organized

In Alaska, this is typically handled in one agency:

• Driver’s licenses and state IDs
• Vehicle registrations and titles
• Most address changes for driving and vehicle records

That means you normally do not have to visit a different office for licensing versus registration; both are managed through the Alaska DMV or its partner/contract offices.

However, depending on your community in Alaska, DMV services may be offered:

• At a full-service DMV office operated by the state, or
• Through a contract or business partner office in smaller communities

Before you go in person, verify that the location you plan to use can handle address changes for both driver and vehicle records. In some small Alaska locations, services can be limited to registration, or to specific transactions on certain days.

Why Updating Your Address in Alaska Matters

Keeping your address current with the Alaska DMV isn’t just a formality. It affects multiple parts of your driving record and state correspondence.

1. Driver’s license and state ID

When you move within Alaska, your driver’s license or state ID record should reflect your new residence address. This matters because:

• Law enforcement uses your DMV record to verify your identity and residence
• Some Alaska courts and agencies send notices to the address on your DMV record
• Your license may be used as proof of residency for local matters

Many drivers in Alaska find that updating their DMV address also prevents issues when renewing or replacing their license later.

2. Vehicle registration and title

Your vehicle registration and title record also rely on a correct address:

• Registration renewal notices, if sent, go to the address the DMV has on file
• If your registration is suspended or cancelled, notices will go to that address
• Lienholders and buyers may check the address printed on the title

For rural Alaska residents who rely on seasonal mail service or PO boxes, having the correct mailing address on file can be critical so you don’t miss important registration information.

3. Official notices and citations

In Alaska, this is typically handled by mailing notices to the address shown in DMV records. This can include:

• Suspension or revocation notices
• Court-related correspondence tied to your driving record
• Compliance or insurance-related notifications

If the address is wrong, you could miss a notice and run into avoidable problems—like driving on a suspended license without realizing it.

4. Jury duty and other government mail

Depending on your community in Alaska, DMV data may be used along with other state records to help create jury pools or send other official mail. A wrong address can complicate your obligations or delay official communications.

What You’ll Need to Change Your Address

The exact requirements can vary slightly based on how you update (online, by mail, or in person). However, most Alaska DMV change of address transactions require the same basic information.

Basic information

Have this ready:

• Full legal name
• Date of birth
• Alaska driver’s license or state ID number (if you have one)
• Vehicle information if you’re updating registration/title:
  • License plate number
  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), if requested
  • Year, make, and model
• Old address on file (residence and/or mailing)
• New address:
  • Physical residence address in Alaska (if you live in the state)
  • Mailing address (can be different from residence; PO Box is common in AK)

Many residents in Alaska use a PO Box for mailing and a separate physical address for residence. The DMV usually needs both, so be prepared to provide each clearly.

Possible documentation

Depending on how and what you’re updating, you may be asked to provide:

• Proof of identity (e.g., existing Alaska driver’s license or ID)
• Proof of new Alaska residence address, such as:
  • Utility bill or bank statement with your name and physical address
  • Lease agreement or mortgage documents
  • Official government correspondence showing the new address

If you are updating a Commercial Driver License (CDL) or completing a Real ID–compliant license or ID change, additional documentation requirements may apply.

Common reasons address changes get rejected

Requests may be delayed or rejected if:

• The name or license number doesn’t match DMV records
• The new address is missing key details (apartment number, mile marker, rural route)
• You try to use a mailing-only address as your residence when a physical address is required
• You submit a DMV change of address Alaska request for a vehicle you no longer own
• A required signature or document is missing on a mailed or in-person form

In Alaska, rural addresses can be tricky—a landmark, highway mile marker, or descriptive locator may be needed. Use the same description you use for emergency services or local government records if you do not receive standard street delivery.

Step-by-Step Options to Change Your Address in Alaska

Depending on your situation, you may be able to complete your Alaska DMV change of address online, in person, or by mail. Availability can vary by service type and by whether your records are current and in good standing.

In Alaska, this is typically handled as two related updates:

• Your driver’s license/ID record
• Your vehicle registration/title record

Sometimes you can update both at once; in other cases, you may have to submit separate updates.

1. Online address change (if eligible)

Many drivers in Alaska find that the online option is the fastest way to update a simple address change, especially in winter when travel can be difficult.

Eligibility for online changes often depends on:

• Having a current, valid Alaska driver’s license or ID
• Having your current address and personal details already in the system
• Not needing a name change at the same time
• Meeting any age or status requirements (for example, some CDLs or Real IDs may have extra rules)

To use online services safely:

1. Go to the official Alaska DMV website.

   • If you don’t know the URL, search online for “Alaska DMV online services” or “Alaska DMV change of address” and choose the result that clearly shows it’s a State of Alaska government site (usually a .gov domain).

2. Locate the address change or online services page.

   • Look for an “online services” or “driver’s license” section with an address update option.

3. Log in or enter requested information.

   • Be ready with your Alaska license/ID number, date of birth, and possibly the last few digits of your SSN or similar verification.

4. Enter your new address.

   • Provide residence and mailing addresses separately if they differ.
   • For rural Alaska addresses, carefully follow online instructions for describing your physical location.

5. Indicate whether you want to update:

   • Driver’s license/ID record only
   • Vehicle registration records as well, if the option is provided

6. Review and submit.

   • Confirm everything is spelled correctly and all unit numbers or PO Box details are included.

Some Alaska online systems may update your record only and not automatically issue a new physical license or registration card. In that case, your record will show the new address, even if your card still shows the old one. The site should explain whether you need to apply separately for a replacement card with the new address printed.

2. In-person address change

In Alaska, this is typically handled in person when:

• You are changing both name and address
• You are upgrading to or renewing a Real ID–compliant credential
• Your current license/ID is expired or has issues
• You have a CDL with special documentation rules
• The online system cannot locate your record or flags you for in‑person service

To update your address in person:

1. Find a nearby Alaska DMV or partner office.

   • Search for “Alaska DMV office locations” on the official state site to confirm office hours and services.
   • Depending on your community in Alaska, the nearest full-service DMV may be some distance away; plan accordingly, especially in winter.

2. Gather your documents.

   • Your current Alaska driver’s license or ID
   • Vehicle information if you are updating registration
   • Any required proof of new Alaska residence, if requested

3. Check whether an appointment is recommended.

   • In some busier Alaska cities, appointments can reduce wait times. In rural or contract locations, certain services may only be available on specific days.

4. Complete any required address change form at the office.

   • Staff will usually direct you to an Alaska DMV change of address form or update screen.
   • Clearly list your physical residence and mailing address, if different.

5. Submit your information and show identification.

   • A DMV representative will verify your identity and update your record.

6. Ask about updated documents.

   • Depending on the type of change, you may have the option to:
     • Simply update the records, or
     • Request a replacement license/ID and/or updated registration showing your new address

Some in-person changes may involve a fee for replacement documents, but you should confirm at the counter rather than guessing.

3. Address change by mail (if available)

Mail can be a practical option for people in remote Alaska communities where online connectivity is limited or in-person travel is difficult. However, not every transaction can be completed by mail.

To use a mail option (when offered):

1. Locate the official address change instructions.

   • On the Alaska DMV website, search for “change of address” or “address change form.”
   • Look for a downloadable Alaska DMV change of address form that includes mailing instructions.

2. Print and complete the form.

   • Use black or blue ink and write clearly.
   • Include your:
     • Full name and date of birth
     • Driver’s license or ID number
     • Old address and new address(es)
     • Vehicle information if you also want your registration updated
   • Sign the form where indicated.

3. Include any requested copies.

   • Some mail-in processes ask for photocopies of your current license or ID, not originals.
   • Do not mail your physical license unless the instructions explicitly say so.

4. Mail to the specified address.

   • Use the DMV’s official mailing address printed on the form.
   • Consider using a trackable mail option, especially from remote or seasonal Alaska locations.

5. Allow processing time.

   • Processing by mail can take longer, especially if mail delivery is affected by weather, holidays, or remote routing.

Depending on your county in Alaska and your local post office, it can be wise to keep a copy of the completed form and your mailing receipt until you confirm the update is complete.

Do License and Registration Update Together?

In Alaska, this is typically handled as linked but not always automatic processes:

• Updating your driver’s license/ID record does not always guarantee that all of your vehicle registrations are updated at the same time.
• Some online or mail forms let you check a box to update your vehicle records simultaneously; others may require a separate step.

When you complete an Alaska DMV change of address:

• Look for specific language that says whether vehicle records will also be updated.
• If it’s unclear, consider submitting a separate request or contacting the DMV to confirm.

After You Submit Your Address Change

Once you complete an address change through the Alaska DMV, a few things typically happen.

1. Record update

The DMV updates your electronic record for:

• Your driver’s license or ID, and
• Any associated vehicle registrations, if included in the request

This means that if law enforcement or another state agency checks your DMV record, they should see your new address, even if your physical card still lists the old one.

2. Confirmation

Depending on how you submitted:

• Online: You may see an on-screen confirmation or receive an email confirmation that the address has been updated.
• In person: Staff may give you a receipt or printout showing that your record has been changed.
• By mail: You might not receive immediate confirmation; you may need to call or check later to verify.

3. New card or document (if applicable)

For some transactions, your address is updated in the system only, and you keep your current license card or registration until renewal.

For others, you may:

• Receive a replacement driver’s license or ID showing your new address, or
• Receive a new registration card with the updated address

Because policies can vary and change, check the instructions or ask DMV staff whether a new physical document is part of the process or a separate optional step.

4. Timing

The time it takes for your new address to appear on your records or documents can depend on:

• How you submitted (online vs. mail vs. in-person)
• Volume and staffing at the Alaska DMV
• Mail delivery conditions within Alaska, especially to rural or off-road communities

Plan ahead if you know you’ll soon need your license or registration as proof of address for another purpose.

Special Situations for Alaska Residents

Some address changes are more complicated than a standard move across town. In Alaska, unique living arrangements and occupations can affect how your change of address works.

Commercial Driver Licenses (CDL)

If you hold a CDL in Alaska, address changes may involve:

• Stricter identity verification requirements
• Federal regulations that require certain updates within specific timeframes
• Possible in-person visits, especially if your CDL has endorsements or is tied to special medical certifications

CDL holders should follow the change-of-address process outlined specifically for CDLs on the Alaska DMV site or contact the DMV directly to confirm what is required.

Active-duty military

Many service members stationed in Alaska maintain residency elsewhere, while some claim Alaska as their state of residence.

• If you are active-duty military stationed in Alaska but a resident of another state, check both:
  • The Alaska DMV rules for local licensing/registration, and
  • Your home state’s rules for maintaining or changing your address there
• If you are an Alaska resident on active duty out of state, you may still need to update your Alaska DMV address when your permanent address changes, especially for mail forwarding and renewal notices.

Because military situations can be nuanced, consider reviewing the military information section on the official Alaska DMV site or calling for clarification.

College students

If you’re an Alaska resident attending college in another state, or an out-of-state student studying in Alaska:

• Decide where you legally reside for licensing and registration purposes.
• If you keep your Alaska license and vehicle registration, update your Alaska DMV address whenever your permanent Alaska residence or mailing address changes (for example, if your parents move).

For students living in dorms or off-campus apartments during the school year but maintaining Alaska residency, consider whether your permanent mailing address is your family home or your school address and reflect that in your DMV records.

PO boxes and rural routes

In many parts of Alaska, PO boxes are the only reliable mail option, and physical homes may not have a traditional postal address.

In Alaska, this is typically handled by recording:

• A physical residence address (for example, “Mile X on [Highway Name]” or a local description recognized by emergency services), and
• A mailing address, such as a PO Box, where you actually receive mail

When you complete your Alaska DMV change of address, be sure to:

• Clearly label which address is residence and which is mailing
• Use the same physical description that is on your local property records or used by 911/emergency responders, if available

New residents moving into Alaska

If you are moving from another state into Alaska (AK):

• You generally need to apply for an Alaska driver’s license and register your vehicle in Alaska within a certain period of establishing residency.
• That process usually sets your initial Alaska address records, rather than an “address change” in the traditional sense.

To find the most current rules for new residents, search the official Alaska DMV site for “new residents” or “moving to Alaska” in addition to reviewing address change information.

Name and address change together

If you’ve changed your name (for example, after marriage or divorce) and also moved:

• You will almost always need to handle this in person, since name changes typically require legal documentation (such as a court order or marriage certificate).
• Updating only your address online while your legal name is different from your supporting documents can cause record mismatches.

Complete any required name change process first, or at the same time, then ensure the new address is correctly recorded on your updated license, ID, and registration.

Troubleshooting: If Your Address Change Doesn’t Go Through

Sometimes an Alaska DMV change of address doesn’t work the first time. Here are common problems and practical steps to fix them.

Online address change rejected

If an online attempt fails:

• Double-check that:
  • Your license/ID number is entered exactly as printed
  • Your name, date of birth, and SSN digits (if requested) match DMV records
• Try simplifying your address format:
  • Use standard abbreviations (e.g., “Rd” for Road, “St” for Street)
  • Remove extra punctuation or symbols

If you live in a rural area in Alaska and the online system seems confused by your physical address:

• Enter your mailing address correctly, and
• Provide your physical location description exactly as you would on official forms or emergency services records

If the system still rejects your request, the safest next step is to call the Alaska DMV or plan an in-person visit when feasible.

Submitted but not updated

If you submitted an address change (online or by mail) but your record still shows the old address:

1. Allow reasonable processing time, especially if you used mail.
2. Check again using any DMV online tools or by contacting the DMV.
3. If necessary, resubmit your address change, making sure all details are complete and legible.

Keep any confirmation numbers, receipts, or copies of submitted forms until you see the update reflected in your records.

Rejected or returned mail request

If your mailed Alaska DMV change of address form is returned or rejected:

• Carefully read any notes or rejection explanation included.
• Correct issues such as:
  • Missing signature
  • Incomplete address (missing apartment or PO Box number)
  • Illegible handwriting
  • Missing required copies

Resubmit using a secure and trackable mailing option if you are in a remote part of Alaska or if mail is routinely delayed in your area.

License updated but registration didn’t (or vice versa)

In Alaska, it’s possible for driver’s license/ID and vehicle records to get out of sync if:

• You updated only one through an online service
• You sold or purchased a vehicle around the same time
• A form did not clearly list all vehicles under your name

If your license shows the new address but your vehicle registration still lists the old address (or the opposite):

1. Check whether you submitted a change specifically for vehicle registration/title.
2. If not, complete a separate address change for vehicle records.
3. Verify the update by:
   • Reviewing your next renewal notice, or
   • Checking with the Alaska DMV directly

Moved out of Alaska

If you have moved out of Alaska and obtained:

• A driver’s license in another state, and
• Vehicle registration in that new state,

you generally won’t need to keep your Alaska DMV address up to date for those old records. In fact, you may need to:

• Surrender Alaska license plates, if requested by Alaska or your new state
• Confirm your Alaska vehicle registration is cancelled if the vehicle is now fully registered elsewhere

To avoid confusion, search for instructions on “moving out of Alaska” or “surrendering Alaska plates” on the official DMV site, and follow your new state’s requirements as well.

Simple Reference: Main Ways to Update Your Address in Alaska

Keeping your DMV address current is a straightforward way to avoid missed notices and complications, especially given Alaska’s unique geography and mail challenges. To get started, identify how you prefer to update—online, in person, or by mail—and gather your key information: your Alaska driver’s license or ID number, vehicle details, and your new residence and mailing addresses.

For the most current instructions, search the official Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles website for terms like “DMV change of address Alaska” or “Alaska DMV online services”, then follow the steps that match your situation. Once your records are updated, you can be more confident that future license renewals, registration notices, and official mail will reach you at the right place in Alaska or wherever you call home next.