How to Get Your Alaska Driver’s License Reinstated

Reinstating a driver’s license after a DUI in Alaska is not just about paying a fine. It is a multi-step legal process that requires you to satisfy the court, the DMV, and the Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP) before you can legally drive again.

If your license has been revoked due to Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Refusal to Submit to a chemical test, you cannot simply wait for the suspension to end. You must actively complete the reinstatement requirements listed below.

The Three Mandatory Requirements for Alaska DUI License Reinstatement

Before you even visit a DMV office, you must complete these three steps. The DMV will strictly deny your application if these are not in their system.

Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP) Requirement

Every person convicted of a DUI in Alaska must complete an ASAP screening.

  • What it is: A mandatory screening to determine if you need substance abuse treatment.
  • The Rule: You must provide proof of compliance or completion from an approved ASAP provider.
  • Action: Contact your local ASAP office immediately after conviction. The DMV cannot reinstate your license until ASAP clears you in their database.

SR-22 Insurance Requirement in Alaska

You must prove to the state that you are insured.

  • The Form: An SR-22 is not insurance itself; it is a certificate your insurance company files with the DMV.
  • Duration:
    • 1st Offense: Must maintain for 5 years.
    • 2nd Offense: Must maintain for 10 years.
    • 3rd Offense: Must maintain for 20 years.
  • Warning: If you miss a payment, your insurer is legally required to notify the DMV, and your license will be suspended again immediately.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Requirement

Alaska law requires you to install an IID on any vehicle you operate during your probation period.

  • Installation: You must have the device installed before you apply for reinstatement.
  • Proof: Bring the installation certificate (dated within the last 30 days) to the DMV.
  • Duration:
    • 1st Offense: 6 months minimum.
    • 2nd Offense: 12 months minimum.
    • 3rd Offense: 18 months minimum.

Step-by-Step Reinstatement Process

Once you have cleared the ASAP screening, obtained SR-22 insurance, and installed your IID, you are ready to formally reinstate your license.

Step 1: Verify Your Revocation Period Has Ended

You cannot reinstate early unless you are applying for a “Limited License” (see below).

  • 1st Offense: Minimum 90-day revocation.
  • 2nd Offense: Minimum 1-year revocation.
  • 3rd Offense: Minimum 3-year revocation.

Step 2: Pass Required Tests

If your license has been revoked or expired for more than one year, you must retake the written knowledge test and the vision test.

  • Road Test: A road test is usually only required if your license has been expired for more than 5 years, or if specific medical/administrative conditions apply.

Step 3: Submit Application & Fees

Visit your local DMV office to finalize the process. To skip the wait, you should schedule an Alaska DMV appointmentbeforehand.

  • Form: Submit a completed Form D1.
  • Identity: Bring a birth certificate or passport if your previous license is expired or lost.
  • Address: If you moved during your suspension, update your details using the Alaska DMV Change of Address form to ensure you receive future legal notices.

Alaska DUI License Reinstatement Fees

Reinstatement fees are separate from standard licensing fees. You must pay both.

Fee TypeCostNotes
Reinstatement (1st DUI)$200If combined with Admin actions, it is $250.
Reinstatement (2nd DUI)$500Includes Refusal convictions.
Standard License Fee$20For a standard Class D license.
Limited License App$100If applying for a license during suspension.
Road Test$15Only if required.

Note: A DUI conviction adds significant points on your license in Alaska. While the reinstatement fee fixes your status, the points remain on your record and may affect insurance rates.

Can I Drive During My Suspension? (Limited Driver’s License After a DUI in Alaska)

If you need to drive for work or treatment during your revocation period, you may apply for a Limited License.

  • Eligibility: You typically must wait out the first 30 days of your suspension (the “hard suspension” period).
  • Requirements: You must pay a $100 application fee, file an SR-22, and have an IID installed.
  • Restrictions: This license strictly limits where and when you can drive (e.g., to/from work, ASAP classes, or medical appointments).

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I don’t own a car?

If you do not own a vehicle, you must purchase a “Non-Owner SR-22” policy to satisfy the insurance requirement. However, to satisfy the IID requirement, you generally must have a vehicle to install the device on, or you may be unable to reinstate your license until the IID requirement period expires.

Do I have to retake the road test?

Most DUI reinstatements do not require a road test unless your license has been expired for over 5 years. However, you will almost always need to retake the written and vision tests.

Can I reinstate my license online?

You can only reinstate online if the DMV already has your updated SR-22, ASAP completion, and IID proof on file. If any of these documents are missing from their system, you must go in person.

Conclusion

Reinstating your license in Alaska is a strict process designed to ensure public safety. Success depends on hitting the three main targets: ASAP completion, SR-22 filing, and IID installation. Do not attempt to visit the DMV until you have physical proof of all three. Once you have these documents, book your appointment to pay the fees and reclaim your driving privileges legally.

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