Alaska CDL Requirements (A Complete 2024 Guide)

Looking to get a commercial driver’s license in Alaska?

Don’t know the requirements and step-by-step process?

If so, then you’ve come to the right place. 

Here, we’re going to give you a complete 2024 guide on the Alaska CDL requirements. We’re going to talk about who can get a CDL, how to get a CDL, and so much more. 

Plus, we’ll include all the details, so you have all the answers here. 

Without further ado, let’s begin!

The Different Types of CDL in Alaska

Before we begin, it’s important to know about the different types of CDL in Alaska. This is because you’ll have to choose one type and take the tests and/or endorsements required for it. 

So here are the CDL types in Alaska:

• Class A – can operate a combination of vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds and more. The towed unit should be 10,001 pounds or more. 
• Class B – can operate any vehicle with a GCWR of 26,001 pounds or more. The towed unit should be 10,001 or less. 
• Class C – can operate a single vehicle with a GCWR of 20,001 pounds or less. It can also operate a vehicle designed to transport 16 or more passengers or is placarded for hazardous materials. 

Who Can Get a CDL in Alaska?

First things first, the basic requirements. 

This will determine who can get a CDL in Alaska. 

So if you can check all these boxes, then you can start working toward your CDL:

• Be at least 18 years old. Or, if working interstate, be at least 21 years old
• Hold a regular driver’s license for 1 year
• Must be an Alaska resident

That’s it!

Now, let’s move on to the actual requirements. 

What are the Alaska CDL Requirements?

There are 2 main steps to getting your CDL in Alaska. These are: 

1. Get a Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP)
2. Get your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)

Let’s look at each one in detail. 

How to Get a CLP in Alaska 

Just like a learner’s permit, a commecial learner permit will allow you to practice driving your preferred vehicle (class A, B, or C).

Of course, you should have a qualified instructor beside you at all times. Qualified drivers should:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Have a license class or endorsement of the vehicle you are driving
• Must have held their license for 1 year

Now, to get that permit, you need to go to a local DMV office. You can schedule an appointment online on the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles website. 

When you get there, you need to submit:

• Regular driver’s license
• Proof of identity
• Application Form (Form D1) 
• Commercial Driver Medical & Self Certifying Verification Form (Form 413)
• Medical card or DOT card (read more about this here) 
• Permit fee of $15

Note: it’s a good idea to prepare all these before going to your scheduled appointment at your local DMV office. 

From there, you will then need to pass several tests, namely:

• General Knowledge Test (you can study for this in the Alaska Commercial Driver’s Manual)
• Vision Test
• Combination Test (if getting a Class A CDL)
• Air Brake Test

If you’re successful with all this, then you can get hold of your CLP.

CLP Exemptions in Alaska

Because the Alaska rural community is huge, the federal government allowed people living in rural areas to get rid of CLP requirements. This means they can jump straight to working towards their Off-Highway CDL. 

Here are the steps to getting an Off-Highway CDL in rural Alaska:

• Pass the written test (can be taken by a proctor in your area)
• Pass a vision test
• Pay the fee of $120
• Submit legal documents verifying identity, date of birth, Social Security Number
• Submit proof of residency in a qualifying Alaskan rural community
• Only school bus tests and endorsement is required (if applicable)

You also no longer need a CLP if you are transferring your CDL from another state to Alaska. 

How to Get a CDL in Alaska

Once you get hold of your CLP, you’ll be given 180 days to practice, as well as schedule and complete your road skills test. 

Note: if you still need more time, you can resubmit your CLP forms for another 180 days. However, you can only do this once. 

Here are the steps to getting your CDL in Alaska:

1. Hold your CLP matching your class and endorsement for at least 14 days
2. Practice driving with a qualified driver
3. Schedule a road test (you can schedule online here)
4. Pass the road test with a vehicle matching your preferred license class and endorsement 

As for what you need to bring, here is the list:

• Proof of legal presence
• Proof of residency in Alaska
• Social Security Number
• Regular driver’s license
• DOT Medical Card
• FMCSA Vision and/or Diabetes Exemption document (if applicable)
• Fee of $120
• Your CLP

After all that, you will be able to get hold of your Alaska commercial driver’s license, whatever the class and endorsement you choose. 

Alaska CDL Endorsements

To give you a better idea of the CDL codes and endorsements in Alaska, we’re going to describe the most popular ones and their requirements:

• T – for double/triple trailers (written test)
• P – for passengers (written test)
• N – tank vehicles (written test)
• H – carry hazardous materials (written test)
• X – tank vehicle that carries hazardous materials (written test)
• S – school bus (written and skills test)
• W – tow truck (written and skills test)

FAQs

How do I transfer my CDL to Alaska?

If you want to permanently transfer your CDL from another state to Alaska, simply follow the steps on how to get a CDL in Alaska above. Plus, you will be required to complete all the required written and skills tests. 

But if you just want to temporarily transfer it for seasonal work, you just need to hold a valid CDL from your home state. 

What disqualifies you from getting a CDL in Alaska?

Aside from the basic requirements, you CANNOT get a CDL if you have:

• Railroad crossing offenses
• Serious traffic offenses
• Driving beyond your CDL type (called an out of service order)
• Driving after being issued an out of service order 
• DUI offenses

Conclusion

So that is all the Alaska CDL requirements. 

As you can see, there aren’t as many steps to getting a regular driver’s license. However, it does require a lot more practice and tests. 

So if you’re thinking about driving a commercial vehicle, then you should start working towards getting your CLP. 

From there, make sure you take all the necessary written and skills tests that match your CDL class and endorsement.

We hope this has helped answer your burning questions. 

Good luck!