How to get Alaska CDL: Application Process & Requirements Explained

Commercial driving is one of the most sought-after careers in Alaska, offering competitive pay and endless opportunities. Getting an Alaska CDL will open doors to this exciting and rewarding future. However, the journey to pursuing is not straightforward, requiring you to go through several steps, from meeting requirements to passing testing and training. But don’t worry, we are here to help! In this post, we outline everything you need to ace your license, helping you navigate the process with ease. Keep reading to take the first step into a future full of possibilities!

What are the Alaska CDL requirements?

Before getting a CDL in Alaska, you must meet several requirements on age, documentation, physics, training, and testing to ensure you are qualified and capable of handling the great responsibility of driving a commercial vehicle. Here is what you should expect:

• Age requirements: You must be at least 18 years old to drive a commercial vehicle within Alaska (intrastate driving). To drive across state lines (interstate driving) or transport passengers or hazardous materials, the age limit rises to at least 21 years old.
• Proof of identity and Alaska residency: Provide documentation of your full name, legal presence in the United States, and residency in Alaska. Acceptable documents usually include a passport, birth certificate, or permanent resident card, in addition to proof of Alaska residency such as utility bills or a lease agreement.
• Social Security Number (SSN): You must have a valid Social Security Number for your federal and state CDL application purposes.
• Valid driver’s license: A valid, non-commercial driver’s license (Class D or equivalent) is required before applying for a CLP or CDL.
• Driving record requirements: Obtain a clean driving record with no major or too many violations disqualifying you from obtaining a CDL.
• Medical fitness and examination:
  • You must be medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle.
  • Unless exemptions, you are required to undergo a physical examination by a medical professional and obtain a Medical Examiner’s Certificate (MEC), proving that you fit the standard of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA).
• Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP): Before you can get a CDL, you must apply for a CLP and obtain it for at least 14 days before taking the CDL skills test. You have to pass a series of written tests to earn this permit.
• Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT): Complete an FMCSA-approved ELDT program.
• CDL skills test: Pass the CDL skills test with three parts, including pre-trip inspection, basic control skills, and on-the-road driving test.
• Application: Complete all required forms correctly.
• Fees: Pay any application and testing fees that are required.

Check out our full guide on Alaska CDL requirements for an in-depth checklist.

How to get a CDL license in Alaska?

Follow these steps and we will walk you through the process to obtain your license, from applying to Alaska DMV, to holding your official license:

Step 1. Visit your local Alaska DMV

First, start your application process at your nearest Alaska DMV. Before visiting, make sure you meet all qualifications to apply for a CDL, in addition to having documentation in order. You can be required to pay the application fee for processing at this stage.

Step 2. Choose your CDL Class and driving type

This step is the foundation for the rest of the application process, affecting the training and testing you have to complete. You have to choose from three CDL classes that fit your career goals:

• Class A: For operating combination vehicles.
• Class B: For driving big single vehicles.
• Class C: For driving smaller vehicles to transport passengers or hazardous materials.

Moreover, you have to submit your self-certification of driving type from the below:

• Non-excepted interstate: For driving across state lines without exemption.
• Non-excepted intrastate: For commercial driving in Alaska without exemptions.
• Excepted interstate: For interstate driving under particular exemptions.
• Excepted intrastate: For driving inside Alaska under specific exemptions.

For the broadest opportunities, it is recommended that you choose non-excepted interstate driving, which will require possessing a valid MEC.

Step 3. Pass the CDL written tests and obtain a CLP

Next, prepare and pass a series of written tests to obtain your CLP. These tests will verify your understanding of regulations, safety procedures, and how to operate the vehicle. The number of written tests you must complete depends on your selected CDL Class and extra endorsements. The following are common written tests you can be required to take:

General knowledge test

The general knowledge test is required for all applicants for a CDL, regardless of the class. It will cover the basic principles of safe operation of a commercial vehicle.

The topics covered are:

• Vehicle safety inspection: Detecting defects and ensuring your vehicle is roadworthy.
• Safe driving practices: Handling difficult road conditions and vehicle space.
• Cargo handling: Understanding weight distribution, securing cargo properly, and avoiding overloads.
• Traffic laws and regulations: Speed limits, signs, and state road laws.

Format:

• 50 multiple-choice questions.
• A passing score is at least 80% – 40 correct answers.

Take Alaska CDL general knowledge practice tests!

Endorsement tests

To be eligible for driving special types of vehicles or transport cargo, you must pass written tests for specific endorsements. The different endorsement tests include:

Air brakes test

This test is necessary if you intend to drive vehicles equipped with air brakes. This will cover the operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of air brake systems.

Topics covered in this test include:

• Basic operation: How air brakes work; air pressure gauge, warning devices, stop lamp, emergency brake.
• System maintenance: Air leak checks, low air pressure warning device, air tank drainage.
• Emergency actions: What to do in the event of brake failure or system malfunction.

Format:

• 25 multiple-choice questions.
• You must score at least 80% (20 correct answers) to pass.

Take Alaska CDL air brake practice tests!

Combination vehicles test

This test is necessary to obtain a Class A CDL. It will test your knowledge about the hazards of operating such a combination vehicle.

Topics covered are:

• Coupling and uncoupling: The safe attachment and detachment of trailers.
• Vehicle dynamics: Control of the vehicle, in particular, while cornering and braking.
• Preventing rollovers: Methods of controlling vehicle speed and payload during quick changes in direction, or sharp stops.

Format:

• 20 multiple-choice questions.
• You must answer at least 16 (80%) questions correctly to pass.

Take Alaska CDL combination vehicles practice tests

When you pass these tests, you will be issued a CLP which is valid for six months. You must have held the CLP for at least 14 days before taking the skills test.

Step 4. Enroll in Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) program

All new CDL applicants of Class A/B, Class A upgraders, and those seeking a hazmat endorsement are required to complete an ELDT program by an FMCSA-approved training provider. The training program involves:

• Theory training: Classroom instruction regarding regulations, vehicle operation, and safety.
• Behind-the-wheel training: Driving sessions under the supervision of a professional driver.

Step 5. Take the CDL skills test

The skills test is the last step that precedes the issuance of the CDL. The skills test determines your ability to operate the vehicle safely, having the following major three parts:

• Pre-trip inspection:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of all brakes, lights, tires, and fluids on your vehicle.
  • Describe how to check for hazards and secure the vehicle for the road.

Take Alaska CDL pre-trip inspection practice tests

• Basic vehicle control: Perform driving in a straight line backward, back offset, and alley dock.
• On-the-road driving: Drive in on-road situations and demonstrate the following:
  • Making safe lane changes.
  • Proper merging techniques.
  • Driving uphill and downhill with controlled braking.
  • Following traffic rules and signals at intersections.

Step 6. Get your Alaska CDL

Take your test results, along with any necessary documentation to the Alaska DMV for processing. Pay the remaining fees, and congratulations, you are officially licensed to drive a commercial vehicle in Alaska!

FAQs

1. What requires a CDL in Alaska?

In Alaska, a CDL is required to operate commercial vehicles that fall under the following categories:

• Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): 26,001 pounds or more.
• Transporting passengers: Vehicles designed to carry more than 16 passengers, including the driver.
• Transporting hazardous materials: Any vehicle used to transport hazardous materials.

2. How much does it cost to get a CDL in Alaska?

It will cost between $4,000 to $8,000 to get your Alaska CDL, covering fees for testing, training, licensing, and other expenses. The exact amount depends on your chosen training program and endorsements.

To learn more about the cost breakdown, read our post on Alaska CDL cost.

3. How long does it take to get a CDL in Alaska?

Depending on your training schedule, the type of CDL, and the endorsements you get, the entire process can take 4 to 10 weeks.

Refer to our post on How long it takes to get a CDL in Alaska for more details on timeline estimation.

4. How hard is it to get a CDL in Alaska?

It can be quite challenging to obtain an Alaska CDL as it requires completing several written and practical tests. However, with the right training and practice, you can manage to pass these tests. Remember to utilize our comprehensive practice tests for a smoother and more effective preparation. 

5. How much does a CDL driver make in Alaska?

The average annual salary for CDL drivers in Alaska is around $80,000 while the highest paid can up to between $90,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, endorsements, and type of driving job. 

6. How many questions are on the Alaska CDL test?

The number of questions you have to take on the Alaska CDL test depends on your chosen CDL Class and endorsements. Questions in each test are as follows:

• General knowledge: 50 questions
• Air brakes: 25 questions
• Combination vehicles: 20 questions
• Endorsement tests: 20 to 30 questions each.

If you take all tests the total number of questions could be more than 150. 

7. How long is a CDL permit good for in Alaska?

In Alaska, a CDL permit is issued for 180 days. You can renew it once necessary. 

8. Can I get a CDL in Alaska without going to school?

Yes, it is possible to get an Alaska CDL without going to training school if you belong to exception categories as follows:

• Any driver operating a farm service industry.
• Restricted CDL.
• Drivers employed by a military organization with equivalent training.
• Employees involved in the emergency or firefighting department.
• Drivers issued a CDL before February 7, 2022.

These exemptions only apply under specific conditions as stated by the FMCSA.

Final thoughts

Getting an Alaska CDL is a great opportunity to embark on a rewarding career in the trucking or transportation industry. While the journey can be challenging, the potential for lucrative returns and job security makes it worth trying. Make sure you understand all the requirements, and take time and effort to prepare for required training and testing. Utilize our guide and free practice tests to ensure your success. Gook luck on your journey!