Driving Laws in Alaska - Complete Guide
Current information, rules, and requirements for international drivers
Quick Facts - Alaska
| Driving Side | Right |
|---|---|
| Steering Wheel | Left |
| Speed Units | mph |
| Minimum Driving Age | 16 |
| Car Rental Age | 21-75 |
| Seat Belt Required | |
|---|---|
| Blood Alcohol Limit | 0.08% |
| IDP Required | No |
| Toll Roads | |
| Emergency Number | 911 |
Introduction
Driving in Alaska offers access to some of North America's most spectacular natural scenery, including mountains, glaciers, forests, and national parks. The state follows right-hand traffic rules, with left-hand-drive vehicles, as throughout the rest of the United States. Alaska's highway network connects major cities such as Anchorage, Fairbanks, and Juneau's ferry connections, although many remote communities remain accessible only by air or ferry. Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore destinations such as Denali National Park, the Kenai Peninsula, and the scenic Seward Highway. The official currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD), and with proper planning, driving in Alaska can be a safe and unforgettable experience.Is It Easy to Drive There?
Driving in Alaska is generally easy and straightforward for tourists, especially along the main highways. The roads are less congested than in many urban areas, allowing for a relaxed driving experience. However, the primary challenges come from the state's extreme weather conditions and wildlife. Winter driving can be treacherous with snow and ice, requiring extra caution and proper vehicle equipment. In summer, the long daylight hours are a boon, but you must remain vigilant for moose and other animals that frequently cross roads, particularly at dawn and dusk. Road conditions can also vary, with some rural routes being gravel rather than paved, so it's essential to plan your route and check current conditions.Driving Side
Alaska adheres to the right-hand traffic system, meaning all vehicles must be driven on the right side of the road. As a result, the steering wheel is located on the left side of the vehicle. This is consistent with the rest of the United States and is intuitive for most international visitors from countries with right-hand traffic. For those accustomed to driving on the left, it is crucial to consciously remember to stay to the right, especially after stops or on quiet roads. When overtaking, you do so on the left and must yield to oncoming traffic when returning to the right lane.Speed Limits
| Road Type | Speed Limit (mph) | Speed Limit (km/h) | Enforcement Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban (City Streets) | 15 - 30 mph | 24 - 48 km/h | Strictly enforced in residential and commercial areas. Watch for pedestrians and school zones. |
| Rural (Two-Lane Highways) | 55 - 65 mph | 88 - 105 km/h | Common on open roads. Be aware of wildlife and changing conditions. |
| Expressway | 65 mph | 105 km/h | Standard speed on divided highways, such as sections of the Seward Highway. |
| Motorway/Freeway | 65 mph | 105 km/h | Alaska has few freeways; this speed applies to major highways like the Glenn Highway near Anchorage. |
Seat Belt Laws
Alaska law requires all drivers and passengers in a motor vehicle to wear a seat belt. For the driver and front-seat passengers, seat belt use is mandatory at all times. The state also requires all passengers under the age of 16 to be properly secured, regardless of their seating position in the vehicle. This means any passenger in the back seat must also wear a seat belt. The driver is responsible for ensuring that all passengers under 16 are properly restrained. Child restraint systems must be used according to the manufacturer's instructions and must meet federal safety standards. The law is strictly enforced, and failure to wear a seat belt can result in a fine.Child Seat Rules
For child passengers, Alaska has specific regulations based on age, height, and weight. Children under the age of one or weighing less than 20 pounds must be secured in a rear-facing child safety seat. This seat should never be placed in front of an active airbag. Children who are at least one year old and weigh between 20 and 40 pounds must be in a forward-facing child safety seat with a harness. Booster seats are required for children who have outgrown their forward-facing seats until they are at least 4 feet 9 inches tall and between 8 and 12 years old. A seat belt must fit correctly, with the lap belt lying across the upper thighs and the shoulder belt crossing the chest, to safely secure a child without a booster.Drink Driving Laws
In Alaska, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for drivers aged 21 and over. Commercial drivers are subject to a lower BAC limit of 0.04%, while drivers under 21 are subject to Alaska's zero-tolerance alcohol laws. A conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) can result in substantial fines, licence suspension, mandatory alcohol education or treatment programmes, possible imprisonment, and increased insurance costs. Refusing to submit to a lawful chemical test may also result in licence revocation under Alaska's implied consent laws.Mobile Phone Rules
Alaska law prohibits drivers from texting or otherwise manually reading, composing, or sending electronic messages while operating a motor vehicle. Drivers should avoid any activity that distracts them from driving and are encouraged to use hands-free technology whenever possible. A mounted mobile phone may be used for GPS navigation provided it does not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle. Some municipalities may have additional local restrictions on mobile phone use while driving. Violations of distracted driving laws may result in fines and other penalties depending on the circumstances.Required Documents
To drive legally in Alaska, you must carry specific documents at all times. These include a valid driver's license issued by a U.S. state or territory, or a valid license from your home country if you are a visitor. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not legally required for tourists but is strongly recommended as a supplement to your foreign license and for translation purposes. For vehicle rental, you must have a valid credit card in the driver's name and a rental agreement from the car rental agency. You must also carry proof of vehicle insurance and the vehicle registration. If you are driving your own car, you must have proof of insurance and current registration.International Driving Permit (IDP)
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not legally required for most visitors driving in Alaska when they hold a valid driver's licence from their home country. However, an IDP is strongly recommended if your licence is not in English, as it provides an official translation that can assist law enforcement officers and rental car companies. An IDP must always be carried together with your original driver's licence and is not valid on its own. Visitors may generally drive using a valid foreign driver's licence, while new Alaska residents are required to obtain an Alaska driver's licence within the period specified by state law.Road Signs
Road signs in Alaska follow the standard U.S. conventions and are easy to understand. A red octagonal sign with white lettering indicates a stop. A red and white triangular sign with red lettering indicates a yield. Speed limit signs are white rectangles with black lettering, displaying the limit in miles per hour. A circular sign with a red border and a horizontal white bar indicates no entry. Roundabout signs are yellow diamonds depicting a circular intersection. School zone signs are pentagonal-shaped and yellow-green, indicating that reduced speeds are in effect during school hours. Unique to Alaska, you may also see signs warning of animal crossings, particularly for moose and caribou, which are a common hazard on roads.Toll Roads
Alaska has very few toll facilities compared with most U.S. states. The Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel connecting Whittier with the Seward Highway is the state's primary toll facility. The tunnel operates on a scheduled one-way system shared with railway traffic, and toll charges vary depending on the type of vehicle and the season. Most highways throughout Alaska are free to use. Drivers travelling to Whittier should check the tunnel operating schedule before departure.Fuel Stations
Fuel stations are readily available in Alaska's major cities and along the primary highway network. However, fuel stations can be widely spaced in remote areas, so drivers should refill whenever the opportunity arises before travelling long distances. Petrol (gasoline), diesel, and EV charging stations are available in larger communities, although EV charging infrastructure becomes more limited outside urban areas. Many stations in larger towns operate 24 hours, while those in rural communities may have reduced operating hours.Parking Rules
Parking regulations in Alaska vary by municipality. In cities such as Anchorage and Fairbanks, paid on-street parking and public parking lots are common in downtown areas. Parking meters or mobile payment systems may be available depending on the location. Always check posted signs for time limits, permit requirements, seasonal restrictions, and snow removal regulations. Parking illegally, blocking driveways, fire hydrants, or accessible spaces can result in fines or vehicle towing.Roundabout Rules
When approaching a roundabout in Alaska, you must yield to traffic that is already circulating within the circle. This means drivers entering the roundabout must slow down and wait for a gap in traffic before proceeding. Once inside, you have the right of way over vehicles entering. You must signal your exit to inform other drivers of your intentions. For a multi-lane roundabout, choose your lane based on your exit. It is also important to remember that pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks at the entrances and exits of the roundabout, and you must yield to them.Winter Driving
Winter driving in Alaska requires careful preparation due to snow, ice, freezing temperatures, and rapidly changing weather conditions. Winter tyres or high-quality all-season tyres with sufficient tread are strongly recommended, although they are not required statewide. Snow chains may be required on certain roads or mountain passes when indicated by road signs or severe weather conditions. Drivers should carry an emergency kit containing warm clothing, blankets, food, drinking water, a flashlight, jumper cables, an ice scraper, a shovel, and traction material such as sand or cat litter. Before travelling, always check weather forecasts and current road conditions.Low Emission Zones
Alaska currently does not have any low emission zones (LEZ) or ultra low emission zones (ULEZ) in its cities. This means that all vehicles, regardless of their emission standard, can enter any urban area without paying a charge. There are no city-specific registration requirements or penalties related to vehicle emissions in Alaska. While the state prioritizes environmental protection, the focus is on managing emissions at the state and federal level rather than through local LEZs. Visitors should not worry about facing any fines for entering a city center in a vehicle that does not meet specific emission criteria.Traffic Fines
| Violation | Fine (USD) | Consequences |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding (1-9 mph over) | $50 - $100 | Points on driving record |
| Speeding (10-19 mph over) | $100 - $200 | Points on driving record |
| Speeding (20+ mph over) | $200+ | Possible license suspension, higher insurance rates |
| Mobile Phone Use (Handheld) | $100 | Points on driving record |
| Seat Belt Violation | $50 | Fine for driver and each unrestrained passenger |
| Drink Driving (DUI) | $1,500+ | License suspension, mandatory alcohol program, possible jail time |
| Driving Without Insurance | Varies | Fines, licence suspension, and other penalties may apply. |
Driving Tips for Tourists
1. Always watch for wildlife, especially moose and caribou, which are most active at dawn and dusk. A collision can be fatal for both the animal and the driver. 2. Be prepared for rapidly changing weather conditions. Pack extra layers of clothing, food, and water in your car in case you get stranded. 3. During summer, Alaska experiences exceptionally long daylight hours, particularly in northern regions. While this provides more time for sightseeing, it can also lead to driver fatigue, so plan regular rest breaks and avoid driving when tired. 4. If driving in winter, ensure your vehicle has proper winter tires and an emergency kit. Tire chains are essential for mountain passes. 5. Maintain a safe following distance, especially on gravel roads, as stopping distances are longer. Also, be alert for "chip-seal" roads, which are common. 6. Use the "pullout" lanes provided on two-lane highways. Use designated pullouts whenever it is safe to allow faster vehicles to pass, particularly on narrow or winding highways where passing opportunities are limited. 7. Stay on designated roads and trails to avoid getting stuck in remote areas with no cell service. Cell service is limited outside of major towns. 8. Be cautious on the Seward Highway, which is scenic but has sharp curves and heavy traffic in the summer. It also has many blind spots. 9. Always carry a physical map or download offline maps on your phone, as many areas lack reliable internet connectivity for navigation apps.Renting a Car
Renting a car is the most flexible way to explore Alaska. The minimum age to rent a car is typically 21, though drivers under 25 may be subject to a "young driver" surcharge. Some luxury or specialty vehicles may require drivers to be at least 25. A valid driver's license and a major credit card in the renter's name are mandatory. Most agencies offer standard insurance options, including Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP). It is advisable to check your personal auto insurance and travel insurance policies, as they may already cover rental cars. One-way rentals are available, but often at a higher cost and with limited availability, especially for long-distance routes. Fuel policy is usually "full-to-full," meaning you pick up the car with a full tank and should return it full to avoid extra charges. Airport pickup is available at Anchorage and Fairbanks. Rental prices vary significantly depending on the season, vehicle type, pickup location, and availability. During the busy summer travel season, demand is high and prices can increase substantially, so booking well in advance is recommended.Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, tourists can drive in Alaska with a valid out-of-state or foreign driver's license for up to 90 days. It is highly recommended to also carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) for translation purposes, though it is not legally required.
No, an IDP is not mandatory to drive in Alaska. The state recognizes valid foreign driver's licenses. However, an IDP can be very helpful as it provides a translation of your license and may be requested by rental car companies.
Driving is on the right side of the road in Alaska. This is the same as the rest of the United States. Vehicles have the steering wheel on the left side.
The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers aged 21 and over in Alaska is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, it is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, the limit is 0.00%.
Toll roads are very rare in Alaska. The only significant toll road is the Anton Anderson Memorial Tunnel to Whittier, which charges a toll for vehicles.
Speeding fines in Alaska start at around $50 and can increase based on how much you exceed the limit. Additionally, points are added to your driving record, which can lead to higher insurance premiums.
If you see a moose on the road, slow down and stop if necessary. Do not honk your horn or flash your headlights, as this can startle the animal. Wait for the moose to leave the road before proceeding.
The minimum age to rent a car in Alaska is generally 21. However, drivers under 25 are often charged a young driver fee, and some luxury vehicles may require renters to be 25 or older.
In winter, night driving can be hazardous due to limited daylight and icy conditions. In summer, the 'midnight sun' means it doesn't get dark, which can be disorienting. It is always important to be well-rested and alert.
Yes, you can use a phone for GPS while driving in Alaska, provided it is mounted to the dashboard or windscreen and does not distract you. Handling a phone to make calls or text is illegal.
No, there are currently no low emission zones (LEZ) or similar restrictions in Alaska. All vehicles can enter city centers without paying an environmental charge.
A winter emergency kit should include an ice scraper, a shovel, sand or kitty litter for traction, jumper cables, a flashlight with extra batteries, warm blankets, extra clothing, non-perishable snacks, and water.