Alaska CDL Test Requirements and Endorsements

The different classes of CDLs
The type of courses available for enrollment
The various areas you'll be tested in

Starting at

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Getting a CDL

Could you benefit from gaining an Alaska commercial driver's license? In order to complete the process, there are various steps that must be taken. There's no need to worry - we will make sure you have the knowledge and tools to succeed at the DMV!

Available CDL Courses

Individual Courses:

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Do You Need a CDL?

In the State of Alaska, if you want to drive a Class A, B, or C commercial vehicle, then you must obtain an Alaska commercial driver's license. If you wish to operate double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles, or vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, you will need to gain an endorsement. Please take note of the following types of CDLs:

Class A License - This license is for combination vehicles that have a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided that the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the towed vehicle is over 10,000 pounds.
Class B License - This license is for single or combination vehicles when the GVWR of the single vehicle is over 26,000 pounds. The vehicle being towed cannot weigh more than 10,000 pounds.
Class C License-You will need this license to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, as well as to operate vehicles that are placarded for hazardous materials that don't fall into Class

A or B categories.

Those exempted from CDL requirements include the following: drivers of recreational, military, and emergency vehicles. Farm vehicles may be exempt if operated by a farmer used to transport agricultural products or machinery to and from a farm, if not being used for hire or contract carrier operations, and if not driven further than 150 miles from the farm.

Skills Test

Once you've passed the required knowledge tests, you will be able to take the skills test. Different skills to be knowledgeable in include: pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control, and on-road driving. When taking these tests, you must use the vehicle in which you wish to obtain a license for.

Pre-Trip Vehicle Inspection - It's important to know if your vehicle is safe enough to drive. You will have to do a pre-trip inspection and explain your findings.
Basic Vehicle Control - Your control skills will be tested. You'll need to be comfortable moving the vehicle forward, backward, and turning it in a defined area marked with traffic lanes, cones, or barriers.
On-Road Test - You will need to prove that you can safely operate the vehicle in various types of traffic situations. These situations may include the following: left and right turns, intersections, railway crossings, curves, and more.

More CDL Requirements

To gain a CDL, you will need to be at least 21 years old and have held a valid driver's license for at least one year. If you wish to gain a license to only drive in the State of Alaska, you'll need to be at least 19 years old. Physical requirements include the following: good hearing, 20/40 vision with or without contact lenses, and a 70-degree field of vision in each eye. You cannot be colorblind.

Going to the DMV

Before going to the DMV, make sure you have the following items: a current driver's license, a Department of Transportation Physical Examination Form, and your social security card.
Alaska ID and Required Documents

DMV Fees

To view current licensing and endorsement fees, visit the Alaska DMV. Fees may change according to the county you live in.
Driver's License Info on Alaska's Official DMV website

More Resources

Alaska CDL Manual: Download Alaska CDL Driver's Handbook

For Federal Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/registration-licensing/cdl/cdl.htm

For Medical Requirements for a CDL: http://www.fmcsa.dot.gov/rules-regulations/administration/medical.htm