Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Requirements in Alaska

1. What are the CDL requirements for obtaining a Commercial Driver’s License in Alaska?


In order to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alaska, you must be at least 18 years old, complete a commercial driver training course, pass a written knowledge exam, pass a road skills test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. Additionally, applicants are required to provide a medical examiners certificate and a valid medical card. They must also possess a valid driver’s license from their state of residence. Finally, all applicants must pass a drug and alcohol screening.

2. How many years of driving experience do I need to obtain a CDL in Alaska?


In Alaska, applicants must have a minimum of three years of driving experience before they can be issued a CDL.

3. What type of medical certification is required to get a CDL in Alaska?


In Alaska, drivers must obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (Form MCSA-5876) from a medical professional listed on the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME). The NRCME website allows you to search for a qualified medical professional in your state.

4. Does Alaska use the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) guidelines for CDLs?


Yes, Alaska uses the FMCSA guidelines for CDLs.

5. Are there any special endorsements required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Alaska?


Yes, special endorsements are required to drive certain types of vehicles with a CDL in Alaska. These include HAZMAT, Passenger, Tanker, and School Bus endorsements.

6. How often must CDL holders in Alaska pass a physical examination to maintain their license?


Alaska CDL holders must pass a physical examination every two years in order to maintain their license.

7. What are the age requirements for obtaining a CDL in Alaska?


To obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL) in Alaska, you must be 18 years or older. You must also meet all of the requirements listed in the Alaska CDL Manual, including providing proof of legal presence, passing a knowledge and skills test, and providing proof of medical certification.

8. Are there any skill exams required to get a CDL in Alaska?


Yes, the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles requires an applicant to take a knowledge test and a skills test to receive a CDL in the state. The knowledge test must be completed in person at a local DMV office, while the skills test can be taken at any Third-Party Skills Test Provider approved by the Alaska DMV.

9. Does Alaska require drivers to complete any additional training before obtaining a CDL?


Yes, Alaska requires drivers to complete additional training before they can obtain a CDL. This includes completing an approved commercial driver education program, passing the knowledge test for the CDL, and passing a commercial driver road test.

10. Can I obtain a CDL if I have previous convictions for traffic violations in Alaska?


You will need to check with the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for the latest information on CDL eligibility. However, in general, some traffic violations may disqualify you from obtaining a CDL, depending on the severity and type of violation. More information can be found on the Alaska DMV website.

11. What hours are Commercial Drivers allowed to drive in Alaska?


In Alaska, Commercial Drivers can drive up to 11 hours during a 14-hour work day. However, they are required to take a break of at least 30 minutes after 8 hours of driving. Moreover, they must take 10 consecutive hours off duty at the end of their shift.

12. Are there any restrictions on CDL holders operating certain types of vehicles in Alaska?


Yes. CDL holders in Alaska are restricted from operating certain types of vehicles, such as school buses, farm vehicles used for commercial purposes, and vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.

13. Do I need to take any additional classes to obtain a CDL in Alaska?


Yes, you may need to take additional classes to obtain a CDL in Alaska. Depending on the type of license you are seeking, you may need to complete additional tests or classes related to the type of vehicle. You should check the requirements of the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles for more information.

14. Does Alaska require drivers to carry proof of insurance when operating commercial vehicles?


Yes, Alaska does require commercial drivers to carry proof of insurance.

15. Is there an age limit for holding a Commercial Drivers License in Alaska?


Yes. You must be 21 years of age or older in order to hold a Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in Alaska.

16. Are there any special requirements for drivers transporting hazardous materials with a Commercial Drivers License in Alaska?


Yes, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) requires any driver transporting hazardous materials in Alaska to have a Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME) added to their Commercial Drivers License (CDL) in order to do so. In addition, drivers must complete training and pass a knowledge test in order to receive an HME.

17. Do I need to take a drug test before obtaining a CDL in Alaska?


Yes, all applicants for a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Alaska are subject to a drug test. The drug test must be administered by a facility approved by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities.

18. Does Alaska require drivers to carry special licenses or endorsements when transporting passengers with a commercial vehicle?


Yes, Alaska does require drivers of commercial vehicles to have a Passenger Endorsement in order to transport passengers.

19. How often must Commercial Drivers renew their license in Alaska?


In Alaska, commercial drivers must renew their license every 5 years.

20. Are there any special restrictions on Commercial Drivers operating at night or during certain times of day in Alaska?


Yes. Commercial Drivers in Alaska must adhere to regulations set out by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSR). These regulations dictate when and how commercial drivers can operate. For example, commercial drivers are restricted from operating between the hours of 1:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m., unless they have a special permit for night driving. Additionally, drivers must take a minimum of 10 hours off duty between shifts.