Alaska Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Alaska has a ticket surcharge over and above the fine schedule.
A driver's license can be suspended for failure to pay a traffic ticket.
Alaska law requires a motorhome or travel trailer/truck with more than 5 vehicles behind it to turn off the main roadway and let the traffic by.
Motorists should always be looking for large animals (such as caribou, bear, and moose) in the roadway.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Main highways | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $2,000 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident is not investigated by the authorities) within 10 days to the nearest police or Alaska State Troopers.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law.
Financial responsibility law, security-type and future proof-type.
Minimum limits: $50,000/100,000/25,000 and $50,000 medical.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- Alaska has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. Alaska has a breathalyzer refusal penalty that is the same as a DWI conviction. The first offense is a 90-day driver's license revocation, 3 days in jail, a fine of $250-$1,000, and it is counted as a DWI on your record.
- A loaded handgun may be carried in the passenger compartment if it is in plain view or secured in a glove compartment; unloaded rifles and shotguns may be carried in plain view or secured in commerical gun cases.
- Studded tires are permitted from September 16 to April 28 north of the 60th parallel and from October 1 to April 15 south of the 60th parallel.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Alaska has a seat belt law with secondary enforcement for all passengers.
- Alaska has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 16 years of age. Children under age 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- Alaska has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law for all persons under 17 years of age and all drivers with instructional permits.
- Registration must be carried in the vehicle. Insurance card is not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 907/269-5412
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911