How to Change Your Address with the Alaska DMV

When you move within Alaska, state law requires you to update your address with the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 10 days.

Failure to do this often results in missing registration renewal notices or, worse, not receiving legal notifications regarding points on your license in Alaska.

You do not always need to visit an office to fix this. This guide covers the three official methods to update your records and explains when you need to pay for a replacement card.

Method 1: Change Your Address Online Using the Alaska DMV Portal

The Alaska DMV offers a unified online portal that updates both your driver’s license and vehicle registration records. This is free unless you want a new physical card printed.

What You Need:

• Your Driver’s License Number.
• For Vehicles: The License Plate Number and the last 2 digits of the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) for every car you own.

1. Go to the Alaska DMV Online Address Change portal.
2. Select the option for “Address Change.”
3. Enter your personal information to locate your driver profile.
4. Crucial Step: You must manually add each vehicle to the request using the Plate Number and partial VIN. If you skip this, your car registration will remain at your old address.
5. Submit the request. The system updates immediately.

Note: This updates your legal record for police and mail. It does not automatically send you a new license. If you want a card with the new address printed on it, you must order a duplicate (see “Do I Need a New Card?” below).

Method 2: Change Your Address in Person at an Alaska DMV Office

If you are already planning to visit for other services—like titling a new car or upgrading to a REAL ID—you can change your address at the counter.

• Bring Proof: You typically need two documents proving your new residence (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement).
• Skip the Line: Walk-ins can wait hours. It is highly recommended to book an Alaska DMV appointment in advance.

Method 3: Submit Form 401 by Mail or Email

If you prefer paper records or cannot access the online portal, you can use Form 401 (Notice of Change of Address).

1. Download Form 401 from the DMV website.
2. Fill out Section 1 (Personal Info) and Section 2 (Vehicle Info).
3. Submit it:
   • Email: Scan and send to [email protected].
   • Mail: Send to the Anchorage headquarters:State of Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles 4001 Ingra Street, Ste 101 Anchorage, AK 99503

Do You Need a New Alaska Driver’s License Card After an Address Change?

Changing your address in the system is free. However, you have two choices regarding your physical card:

1. Keep Your Old Card: You can legally keep your current license with the old address printed on it, as long as the DMV’s computer system is updated. You can write your new address on the back of the card in the space provided.
2. Get a New Card ($15): If you want a license that displays your new address (often required for banking or federal ID purposes), you must apply for a Duplicate License and pay the $15.00 fee.

How to Update Your Alaska Boat Registration Address After Moving

Boat registrations are often overlooked during a move. If you own a vessel, you must ensure your Alaska Boat Registration is also updated.

• Powered Boats: Update this separately if the main online portal does not automatically list your vessel.
• Commercial/Sport Fishing: If you have a sport fishing guide license, ensure your address matches your business filings to avoid regulatory fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

The 10-day window to change your address moves quickly. The most efficient method is the Online Portal, but remember to have your vehicle’s VIN handy to ensure your registration renewal notices arrive at your new home. If you need a physical card with the new address, be prepared to pay the $15 duplicate fee.