📖 Alaska DMV Study Guide

Everything important from the Alaska Driver Manual (REV. 10/2025) — organized for the exam

⭐

Memorize these numbers first. Alaska DMV test questions are frequently built around specific distances, speeds, BAC levels, and time periods. These come up constantly.

Speed Limits

HIGH FREQUENCY

25 mph

Residential district default. Business district: 20 mph. Alley: 15 mph. Always obey posted limits (page 29).

20 mph

School zone speed limit when children are present (page 29, 41).

55 mph

Maximum on any other roadway not otherwise listed unless posted. Some Alaska highways are posted up to 65 mph (page 29).

Posted

Speed limits are posted for ideal conditions. Drivers must reduce speed for rain, ice, heavy traffic, or any condition that makes the posted speed unsafe.

2 sec

Alaska law minimum (13 AAC 02.090). Pick a fixed object — if you reach it before 2 seconds after the car ahead passes, you are too close (page 27, 28).

4–6 sec

Recommended 4-second rule; in rain, snow, ice, fog, or when towing — increase to 6+ seconds (page 27).

📏

Critical Distances & Clearances

HIGH FREQUENCY

15 ft

Do NOT park within 15 feet of a fire hydrant (page 62).

20 ft

Do NOT park within 20 feet of a crosswalk at an intersection, OR within 20 feet of a fire station entrance (page 62).

30 ft

Do NOT park within 30 feet of a stop sign, yield sign, or traffic-control signal (page 62).

50 ft

Do NOT park within 50 feet of the nearest rail of a railroad crossing (page 62). Also: not within 500 ft of fire apparatus with flashing lights.

12 in

Parallel parking — wheels must be within 12 inches of the near curb (page 62).

Both headlights

After passing, return to your lane only when you can see BOTH headlights of the passed vehicle in your rearview mirror.

500 / 300 ft

Dim high beams within 500 ft of an oncoming vehicle; within 300 ft when following another vehicle (page 55).

1,000 ft

Headlights required when visibility is 1,000 ft or less, AND from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise. Use low beams in rain, fog, snow, or dust (page 55).

100 ft

Signal continuously for the last 100 feet before turning (page 30).

All ages

Alaska law (AS 28.05.095) requires every occupant in a motor vehicle to use a safety belt. Driver is responsible for all passengers under 16 (page 20–23).

Plenty

Allow plenty of room when passing a bicycle. Never pass if the street is too narrow or you would force the cyclist too close to parked vehicles (page 47).

Stop

On a 2-lane undivided road both directions stop. Same divided travelway = stop. Exception: separated highway with 2+ lanes each direction — oncoming traffic does NOT stop (page 37, 48).

🍺

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

ALWAYS ON TEST

0.08%

Per se BAC for non-commercial drivers 21+ in Alaska (page 16). Commercial (CDL): 0.04%.

ANY

Zero Tolerance — under 21, any amount of alcohol while driving is illegal. 1st offense: 30-day revocation. 2nd: 90 days. 3rd+: 1 year (page 16).

1st DUI

$1,500 minimum fine, 72 hours minimum jail, 90-day license revocation, 6-month Ignition Interlock Device after conviction (page 14–19).

Refusal

Refusing a chemical test is a SEPARATE criminal charge with the same consequences as DUI itself. 90-day administrative revocation; 7 days to request hearing in writing (page 14).

$200–500

License reinstatement fees: $200 / $250 / $500 depending on offense. SR-22 insurance: $2,000–$10,000 over 5 years (page 17).

🎓

Teen / GDL Numbers

ON EXAM

Age 14

Instruction permit (Class IP) at age 14. Valid 2 years (renew once). Supervisor: 21+ with 1 yr experience, in seat beside you (page 4).

Age 16

Provisional license at 16 after holding the permit ≥6 months and 40 hours of supervised practice (10 in challenging conditions). Fee: $15 (page 5).

1–5 AM

Provisional drivers may NOT operate between 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM unless accompanied by parent/guardian/21+ driver. Exception: most direct route to or from work (page 6).

Passengers

Provisional drivers may carry SIBLINGS without a parent. Other passengers require a parent, legal guardian, or 21+ licensed driver in the vehicle (page 6).

6 months

If 16 or 17, must hold the instruction permit for at least 6 months before being issued a provisional Class D license (page 5).

Age 18

All GDL restrictions lifted at 18, OR after 6 months conviction-free on a provisional license. Standard fee $20. Under-21 license expires 90 days after 21st birthday (page 5).

⏱️

Following Distance & Time Rules

ON EXAM

4 sec

Alaska Driver Manual recommends the 4-second rule. Pick a fixed object and count "one-one-thousand…" (page 27).

6+ sec

Increase to 6+ seconds when towing a trailer, in rain/snow/ice/fog, or behind motorcycles. Same 4-second cushion applies behind motorcycles (page 27, page 47).

Varies

Total stopping distance at 50 mph (dry road) is 281 ft. Doubling speed quadruples both impact force AND braking distance. Triple = 9× (page 28).

No texting

Alaska AS 28.35.161 — texting while driving and operating any visual screen device while driving are prohibited. Pull over to call/text (page 24, 26).

🚦

Road signs are tested heavily. Know each sign's shape, color, and meaning. The real test often shows a sign description and asks what it means.

🔴

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

ALWAYS TESTED

Shape	Meaning	Example
Octagon (8-sided)	STOP — always and only	Stop sign
Triangle (pointing down)	YIELD — give right of way	Yield sign
Diamond	WARNING — hazard ahead	Curve, pedestrian, deer
Pentagon (5-sided)	SCHOOL ZONE	School crossing
Pennant (triangle right)	NO PASSING ZONE	No-passing pennant
Round (circle)	RAILROAD CROSSING advance warning	RR crossing sign
Rectangle (vertical)	REGULATORY — rules you must follow	Speed limit, turn restrictions
Rectangle (horizontal)	GUIDE or INFORMATION	Street name, mile marker
X-shaped crossbuck	RAILROAD CROSSING — treat like yield	Railroad crossbuck

🎨

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

ALWAYS TESTED

Color	Category	What It Means
Red	Regulatory — STOP / PROHIBIT	Stop, yield, do not enter, wrong way, no-turn circles
Yellow	WARNING	General hazard warnings — curves, hills, intersections, animals
Orange	WORK ZONE / CONSTRUCTION	Construction ahead — drive with care. In an Alaska Traffic Safety Corridor, fines for traffic offenses are DOUBLED (page 29).
Green	GUIDE / DIRECTIONAL	Highway exits, distances, direction, mile markers
Blue	SERVICES	Gas, food, lodging, hospital, rest area
Brown	RECREATION / CULTURAL	Parks, campgrounds, historical sites, scenic areas
White	REGULATORY	Speed limits, lane rules, turn restrictions
Fluorescent Yellow-Green	WARNING — pedestrian / school / bike	School zones, crosswalks, bike lanes
Fluorescent Pink	INCIDENT MANAGEMENT	Crash clean-up, debris removal, temporary traffic control

⚠️

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

TRICKY

No Passing Pennant vs. No U-Turn: The pennant (pointing right) = no passing. A circle with a slash over a U-turn arrow = no U-turn. Very different.

Crossbuck (RR) vs. Stop Sign: The crossbuck (white X) = yield/slow down and check. Only stop if a train is coming. The octagon = always stop.

Divided Highway Begins vs. Ends: Begins = two arrows pointing apart (median starts). Ends = two arrows merging together (median ends — expect two-way traffic).

Merge vs. Lane Ends: Merge = two roads joining (both cars adjust). Lane Ends = one lane disappears — that driver must yield and merge.

Red Circle with Slash: Always means that action is PROHIBITED. No left turn, no trucks, no bicycles — whatever is inside the circle is forbidden.

⭐

Right of way is the #1 failure topic on the DMV knowledge test. Master every scenario below — these questions will be on your exam.

⛽

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

MOST TESTED

Uncontrolled intersection — arrive at same time: Yield to the driver on your RIGHT. This is the most tested right-of-way rule.

Left turn at green light: You must always yield to oncoming traffic AND pedestrians — even with a green light. A green light is permission to go, not a guarantee of right of way.

Pedestrians in a crosswalk: Always yield. Stop and wait until the pedestrian has completely crossed — not just stepped back. This includes jaywalkers in many situations.

Blind pedestrian (white cane / guide dog): Absolute right of way — you must stop regardless of where they are crossing.

Four-way stop: First to arrive goes first. Simultaneous arrival = yield to the driver on your right. Straight traffic before turning traffic if both arrive at same time from opposite directions.

Emergency vehicles (lights + siren): Pull to the right edge of the road and stop. Clear intersections first — never stop IN an intersection.

Entering from driveway / private road: Always yield to all traffic on the public road — you have no right of way entering from private property.

Roundabout: Vehicles inside the roundabout always have right of way. Entering traffic must yield. When exiting, yield to pedestrians at the crosswalk.

Merging onto a highway: Traffic already on the highway has right of way. The merging vehicle must yield and find a safe gap.

Non-functioning traffic signal: Treat as an all-way stop. All drivers stop, yield, and take turns.

💡

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

TRICKY

Yellow light: It does NOT mean speed up. If you can stop safely, you must. Proceed only if stopping would be unsafe (you're too close to stop).

Already in intersection when light turns red: Complete the turn — you are committed. Other traffic must wait for you to clear.

Backing out of a driveway: The reversing vehicle always yields to street traffic. You have no right of way in reverse.

Alaska Move Over Law: on a four-lane road, move to the lane opposite a stationary emergency vehicle, tow truck, or other service vehicle with flashing lights. If you can't move over (or you're on a two-lane road), slow to a reasonable and prudent speed. You may NOT follow an emergency vehicle responding to a call closer than 500 feet (page 64).

Right turn on red: Legal ONLY after a complete stop and yielding to ALL traffic and pedestrians. Rolling right on red is illegal.

Left on red: Legal ONLY when turning from a one-way street onto another one-way street — after a complete stop and yielding.

🚥

Traffic Signal Meanings

ALWAYS TESTED

Signal	What You Must Do
Solid GREEN	Proceed — but yield to traffic already in intersection
Solid YELLOW	Prepare to stop if safe; proceed only if stopping would be dangerous
Solid RED	Stop completely; may turn right on red after stop and yield (unless posted)
GREEN ARROW	Protected turn — oncoming traffic must stop. You may turn in the arrow's direction, but still yield to vehicles and pedestrians already in the intersection.
YELLOW ARROW	Protected turn is ending — prepare to yield or stop
Flashing YELLOW ARROW	Unprotected turn — you MAY turn but MUST yield to oncoming and pedestrians
Flashing RED	Treat exactly like a STOP sign — stop, yield, proceed when safe
Flashing YELLOW	Caution — slow down and proceed carefully. Do not need to stop.
RED + GREEN ARROW	Stop for through traffic; turn in direction of arrow only
Signal NOT working	Treat as ALL-WAY STOP — all traffic stops

🛣️

Lane Markings — Know Each One

ON EXAM

Broken yellow center line: Passing is permitted from your side when it is safe.

Solid yellow line on your side: No passing from your side of the road.

Double solid yellow: No passing in either direction.

White lines: Separate traffic going in the same direction. Broken = lane change ok. Solid = discouraged (but not always illegal).

Yellow lines: Separate traffic going in opposite directions.

Center left-turn lane (two-way turn lane): Use ONLY to prepare for and make a left turn. Never use as a travel or passing lane.

Yellow X over a lane: Lane is CLOSED — move to a lane with a green arrow immediately.

White stop line: Stop your front bumper at or behind this line at intersections and crosswalks.

↔️

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

STEP BY STEP

Check your mirrors — rearview and side mirror on the side you're moving to

Signal your intent — give a continuous turn signal for the last 100 feet before turning or changing lanes (page 30).

Look over your shoulder — physically check the blind spot. Mirrors cannot see everything.

Change lanes gradually — smooth and controlled, not jerky

Cancel signal and adjust speed to match the lane's traffic flow

🚨

DUI questions appear on virtually every DMV knowledge test. Know the BAC levels, implied consent law, and penalties. Alaska uses the term "DUI" (Driving Under the Influence).

🍺

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

ALWAYS ON TEST

Situation	Consequence
BAC of 0.08%+ (driver 21+)	1st DUI: $1,500 minimum fine, 72 hours minimum jail, 90-day license revocation, 6-month Ignition Interlock Device after conviction. 2nd DUI: $3,000 fine, 20 days jail, 1-year revocation. 3rd: $4,000, 60 days, 3 years (page 14–19).
Impairment below the legal BAC limit	Yes — you can be convicted of DUI in Alaska even below 0.08% if alcohol, controlled substances, or other drugs (including legally prescribed medications) impair your ability to drive safely (page 14, 18).
Test refusal (implied consent)	Refusing the chemical test is a SEPARATE criminal charge with the same consequences as DUI itself. Refusal results in a 90-day administrative revocation; you have 7 days to request a hearing in writing. Refusing a preliminary breath test at the scene is a separate infraction (page 14, 17).
BAC — under 21 (Zero Tolerance)	ANY amount of alcohol while operating is illegal (Minor Operating After Consuming Alcohol). 1st offense: 30-day administrative revocation. 2nd: 90 days. 3rd or later: 1 year (page 16).
CDL / commercial driver BAC	0.04% — at this level a commercial driver receives an administrative revocation (page 13).
DUI — causing death or injury	Charged separately under Alaska criminal statutes. The Alaska Driver Manual cites the average total cost of a 1st DUI at about $22,740; serious-bodily-injury or fatality cases face felony enhancement and longer revocation (page 19, 20).

💡

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

TESTED

Implied consent: By driving on Alaska roads you have already consented to a chemical test of your breath. Refusing creates two charges (DUI + Refusal). 1st refusal carries a 90-day administrative revocation; you have 7 days to request a hearing in writing. Reinstatement fees range from $200–$500 (page 14, 17).

Only TIME removes alcohol: Coffee, food, cold showers, and fresh air do NOT lower your BAC. Your liver processes about 1 drink per hour — nothing speeds this up.

Impairment starts with the first drink: Judgment is the FIRST driving ability affected by alcohol. You CAN be arrested for DUI in Alaska at any BAC if the officer determines your driving is impaired by alcohol or drugs (page 14, 18).

Under-21 Zero Tolerance: Any detectable amount of alcohol is illegal. 1st offense: 30-day revocation. 2nd: 90 days. 3rd+: 1 year. A breath test of 0.08+ also triggers full adult DUI consequences (page 16).

Mixing drugs and alcohol: Never drink alcohol while taking medications or other drugs. Combinations may multiply effects, reduce driving ability, and cause serious health problems or death. Having a prescription is not a defense if the medication impairs driving.

Cell phone law: Alaska AS 28.35.161 prohibits texting while driving and the operation of any visual screen device that is in view of the driver while the vehicle is in motion. Pull over to a safe area before calling, texting, or programming a navigation device (page 24, 26).

Drugs and driving: Driving while impaired by any drug — prescription, over-the-counter, or controlled — is illegal. Even legally prescribed medications that impair your ability to drive can lead to a DUI charge.

🚌

School bus rules are heavily tested. On a 2-lane undivided road, ALL traffic in BOTH directions must stop for a school bus with red flashing lights. On a separated/divided highway with two or more lanes in each direction, oncoming traffic does NOT need to stop. Same divided travelway as the bus = stop (page 37, 48).

🚌

School Bus Stopping Rules

HEAVILY TESTED

Two-lane / undivided road: ALL traffic in BOTH directions must stop when the school bus has red flashing lights and the stop arm extended (page 48).

Divided-highway exception: on a highway with separated roadways and TWO OR MORE lanes in each direction, oncoming traffic does NOT need to stop. Note: drivers in the SAME divided travelway as the bus must still stop (page 48).

Same direction — always stop: Traffic traveling in the same direction as the bus must ALWAYS stop, regardless of road type or number of lanes.

After the bus stops: Remain stopped until the bus resumes motion or deactivates its warning signals AND all loading/unloading passengers have cleared the roadway. Then proceed slowly, watching carefully for children near the roadway.

When may you proceed: Only when the red lights STOP flashing, the stop arm retracts, and the bus begins moving. It is unlawful to pass a stopped school bus while it is loading or unloading passengers.

Yellow lights = warning: Yellow flashing = bus is about to stop. Slow down immediately and prepare to stop. Do not try to pass before it stops.

School buses must stop at ALL railroad crossings — regardless of whether warning signals are active. This is federal law.

Passing a stopped school bus: a serious traffic violation under Alaska's point system. Specific fines, points, and any license action are set by the citing officer and the court; expect a substantial fine plus driving-record points (page 48, 70–71).

Subsequent / serious offenses: repeat offenses or any incident causing serious bodily injury escalate to higher fines and possible license suspension under Alaska's point system (12 points in 12 months or 18 in 24 = mandatory suspension) (page 11, 70–71).

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

ON EVERY TEST

Basic Speed Law: Drive at a speed that is reasonable and proper for existing conditions — even if that means going below the posted limit. Rain, fog, heavy traffic, school zones all require reduced speed.

Posted limits are MAXIMUMS: You may never legally exceed a posted limit, regardless of conditions, traffic, or what other drivers are doing.

Minimum speed law: Do not drive so slowly that you impede or block the normal flow of traffic. Driving too slowly is also illegal.

Work zone caution: Reduce speed in work zones. Inside an Alaska Traffic Safety Corridor, fines for any traffic offense are DOUBLED. Always obey flaggers and posted reduced limits (page 29).

"Over-driving your headlights": Alaska headlights are required from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise, and any time visibility is 1,000 ft or less. At 30 mph or more low beams reveal a person/vehicle at only ~100–300 ft — never drive faster than you can stop within the distance your headlights illuminate (page 55).

Sight-distance rule for conditions: Pick a stationary object ahead and count your approach time. If you reach the object before the expected count — you are going too fast for the conditions. Slow down.

↔️

Following Distance — The 4-Second Rule (Alaska minimum: 2 sec)

TESTED

Pick a fixed object — a sign, overpass, or lane marking ahead

When the car ahead passes it, start counting: "one-one-thousand, two-one-thousand, three-one-thousand, four-one-thousand" (Alaska Driver Manual recommends 4 seconds; legal minimum is 2 seconds under 13 AAC 02.090).

If you pass the object before 4 seconds — you are following too closely. Slow down and increase the gap. In rain, snow, ice, fog, or when towing — increase to 6+ seconds.

💡 When to increase beyond the minimum

Rain, snow, ice, or fog → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at night → increase beyond the minimum
Following a large truck or motorcycle → 4+ seconds
Towing a trailer → 4 seconds minimum
Driving at highway speeds → increase distance proportionally

📐

Passing Rules

TESTED

✓

You MAY pass when: There is a broken yellow line on your side, you have sufficient sight distance, and there is no sign or condition prohibiting passing.

✗

NEVER pass: within 100 feet of an intersection, railroad crossing, narrow bridge, viaduct, or tunnel; on a solid yellow line on your side; on the right shoulder; or when a school bus is stopped with red lights flashing on the same travelway. Do not pass within the center two-way left-turn lane (page 37, 56–57).

→

When it is safe to return: You may move back into your original lane when both headlights of the passed vehicle are visible in your rearview mirror.

→

Passing on the right: Legal when the vehicle ahead is making a left turn and there is a safe lane to the right, or on a multi-lane road.

🅿️

Parking Clearance Requirements

TESTED

Location	Minimum Clearance
Fire hydrant	15 ft — Do not park within 15 feet (page 62)
Stop sign / yield sign / flashing signal / traffic control device	30 ft — Do not park within 30 feet (page 62)
Pedestrian safety zone	Do not park in a designated pedestrian safety zone or on a crosswalk (page 62)
Crosswalk at intersection	20 ft — Do not park within 20 feet (page 62)
Railroad crossing	50 ft — Do not park within 50 feet of the nearest rail (page 62)
Fire station driveway	20 ft from a fire station entrance. Also: 500 ft from any fire apparatus stopped with flashing emergency lights (page 62)
Driveway entrance (public or private)	Not in front of — always prohibited
Accessible (handicapped) space	Never without valid placard/plate — vehicles parked illegally in accessible spaces are subject to fines and towing (Alaska Driver Manual, parking section)
Inside an intersection or on a crosswalk	Never — always illegal
Bridge, overpass, or tunnel	Never — never park on a bridge, in a tunnel, or on the traveled portion of any roadway (page 62)
No Stopping zone	Never stop here, for any reason
No Parking zone	No parking — may stop to load/unload

⛰️

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

TRICK QUESTION

💡

The rule: always turn wheels so that if the car rolls, it rolls away from traffic or is caught by the curb.

Situation	Turn Wheels	Why
Facing DOWNHILL, WITH curb	RIGHT (into curb)	Car rolls into curb and stops
Facing DOWNHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic
Facing UPHILL, WITH curb	LEFT (away from curb)	Car rolls back, caught by curb
Facing UPHILL, NO curb	RIGHT (away from road)	Car rolls away from traffic

💡 Memory trick

Going downhill with a curb = wheels RIGHT into the curb
Going uphill with a curb = wheels LEFT, away from curb (tire catches it when rolling back)
No curb either way = wheels RIGHT, away from road

🎓

GDL questions appear on many tests. Know Alaska's Graduated Driver Licensing program, the restrictions in each phase, and the specific ages, hold periods, and curfew hours.

🎓

Alaska Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

ON EXAM

Phase 1 — Instruction Permit (age 14+)

→

Minimum age 14. Pass the Class IP knowledge test (16 of 20 = 80%) and the vision test (20/40). Parental or legal guardian consent required if under 18 (Form D1 signature or notarized Form 433). Original instruction permit fee: $15 (page 4).

→

Each non-commercial instruction permit is valid for 2 years and may be renewed once. The signing parent or guardian may withdraw consent in writing at any time, which cancels the minor's permit (page 3, 4).

→

Supervisor must be a licensed driver 21+ with at least one year of driving experience for the same class of vehicle. For passenger vehicles, the supervisor must occupy the seat beside you. For motorcycles, you must be within visual sight under immediate supervision (page 4).

→

If 16 or 17, you must hold the permit at least 6 months before being issued a Class D license. Texting and any visual screen device while driving are prohibited under AS 28.35.161 (page 5, 24, 26).

Phase 2 — Provisional License (age 16)

→

Eligibility: 16+ with a valid instruction permit held at least 6 months; certification by a parent, guardian, or employer of 40 hours of supervised driving including 10 hours in challenging conditions (inclement weather, nighttime); no traffic-law convictions in the prior 6 months (page 5).

→

Restrictions: no driving between 1:00 AM – 5:00 AM unless accompanied by parent/guardian/21+ (work-route exception). Passengers: siblings only without a parent; otherwise need a parent/guardian/21+ in the vehicle. Texting prohibited under AS 28.35.161 (page 6, 24).

→

Provisional license fee: $15. Restrictions can be removed after 6 months conviction-free driving (no traffic OR alcohol/drug convictions). A new parental consent and $15 fee are required to remove restrictions (page 6).

Full Unrestricted License (age 18+)

→

All GDL restrictions lifted at age 18, or earlier upon removal after 6 months conviction-free. Standard license fee: $20. Existing provisional holders upgrading do NOT need to re-take the knowledge or road test (page 5–6).

→

Adults 18+ never licensed in Alaska: pass vision, knowledge, and road tests. Required identity documents: SSN, proof of residence address, proof of date of birth + U.S. citizenship or authorized stay. Out-of-state license holders generally do NOT need to retake the road test (page 2–3, 7).

→

Statewide for all drivers: texting while driving and operating any visual screen device while driving are prohibited (AS 28.35.161). Pull over to a safe area to call, text, or program a navigation device (page 24, 26).

🛡️

Emergency Situations — What to Do

TESTED

💨

Tire blowout: Hold the wheel FIRMLY. Ease off gas (don't brake suddenly). Let the car slow naturally. Then gently steer to safety. Sudden braking causes a spin.

💧

Hydroplaning: Ease off gas, hold wheel steady, avoid braking. Let tires re-contact the road. Don't jerk the wheel or brake hard.

🔥

Engine fire: Pull over immediately, turn off engine, get EVERYONE out and move far away (100+ feet). Call 911. Never open the hood.

⚡

Brakes fail: Shift to a lower gear. Use the parking brake gradually. Look for a safe area to slow to a stop. Rub a tire on the curb if needed.

🌊

Accelerator sticks: Shift to NEUTRAL immediately. Apply brakes. Pull over. Turn engine off.

🌀

Vehicle skids: Ease off gas and brakes. Steer in the direction you want the front to go (into the skid). Do not overcorrect.

🚂

Stalled on railroad tracks: Get everyone out immediately. Move away from the vehicle and the tracks. Locate the Emergency Notification System (ENS) sign for emergency contact information, and call for help — tell them a vehicle is on the tracks.

🌫️

Driving in fog: Use LOW beams (high beams reflect off fog and blind you). Slow significantly. Use fog lights if available. Consider pulling over.

😴

Drowsy driving: Only cure = sleep. Pull over and rest. Coffee, window down, and music are NOT effective solutions. Drowsy driving equals drunk driving in impairment level.

❄️

Stranded in a blizzard: Stay in the vehicle (it's shelter and visible). Run engine briefly for heat with window cracked to prevent CO poisoning. Signal for help with hazards.

🧠

Defensive Driving Principles

ESSENTIAL

Scan ahead: Look well ahead of your vehicle — at least a city block in town and farther on highways. Check mirrors every few seconds and whenever slowing, changing lanes, or approaching intersections.

Keep an escape route: Always know where you could go if the car ahead stopped suddenly.

Bridges freeze first: Cold air circulates above AND below a bridge. Bridges ice before road surface — always treat them as potentially icy in winter.

Head-on collision approaching: Brake hard and steer RIGHT — even off the road. A head-on crash at speed is almost always fatal; going off-road is survivable.

Road rage: Never engage, retaliate, or make eye contact. Don't respond with gestures. Slow down, create distance. Report to 911 if dangerous.

Front wheel off pavement: Don't jerk the wheel — it can roll the car. Ease off gas, brake gently, and gradually steer back. Hold on tight.

🔧

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

TESTED

Equipment	Requirement
Headlights (on)	Required from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise, AND any time visibility is 1,000 ft or less due to rain, fog, snow, smoke, or dust (page 55).
High beams (dim)	Dim within 500 ft of an oncoming vehicle and within 300 ft when following another vehicle. Use LOW beams in rain, fog, snow, or dust (page 55).
Horn	Use when needed to prevent a crash. Do NOT use to express anger, greet friends, or encourage others to move. Avoid around blind pedestrians and animal-drawn vehicles.
Turn signals	Signal continuously for the last 100 feet before turning (page 30). When being passed, it is unlawful to increase your speed (page 37).
Tinted windows	Tint must adhere to the standards in 13 AAC 04.223; never obstruct the driver's view (page 54).
TVs / video screens visible to driver	Prohibited while vehicle is in motion (navigation is typically excepted — confirm against Alaska manual).
Muffler	Must prevent excessive or unusual noise
Brakes	Vehicles must have working service brakes capable of stopping under control. Parking brake required. Test brakes lightly after driving through deep water to dry them out.
Wipers	Must adequately clean the windshield when used
Tail lights / rear reflector	Tail lights and rear reflectors are required equipment on all vehicles. Keep lenses clean for night-driving visibility.
Tires	Tire condition and tread composition directly affect stopping distance. Proper inflation and good tread are critical.
Hazard lights	For use when parked/stopped in an emergency — not while driving normally
Seat belts & child restraints	AS 28.05.095 — every occupant in a motor vehicle must wear a safety belt. Child restraints: under 1 yr OR < 20 lb = rear-facing; 1+ yr and 20+ lb = forward-facing; 4–7 yr, < 57 in & 20–65 lb = booster; 8–15 yr = seat belt (page 20–23).

💡

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

TESTED

Headlights required by Alaska law: from ½ hour after sunset to ½ hour before sunrise, and ANY time visibility is 1,000 feet or less due to rain, fog, snow, smoke, or dust (page 55).

Parking lights ≠ headlights: Parking lights are for indicating a parked vehicle only. Headlights are required for driving during the hours and conditions above — not parking lights.

Dim high beams: within 500 ft of an oncoming vehicle; within 300 ft when following another vehicle. Use low beams in rain, fog, snow, or dust (page 55).

Night driving — "drive in your headlights": Never drive faster than you can stop within the distance lit by your headlights. This is called over-driving your headlights and is dangerous.

⚡

Before the Test — What to Do

PREPARATION

Take the DMV Exam Simulator at least 5 times and score 90%+ consistently. Don't go in when you're scoring 80% — aim higher than the minimum.

Use the "Weak Spots" mode the night before. Every question you got wrong — review those explanations until you understand WHY, not just what the answer is.

Memorize the Key Numbers tab — BAC limits, distances, suspension periods, speed limits. These are direct exam fodder.

Get a good night's sleep. Drowsy test-taking impairs recall just like drowsy driving impairs reaction time.

Bring required documents: Social Security Number; proof of residence address (bank statement, utility bill, pay stub); certified U.S. birth certificate OR valid U.S./foreign passport with current INS documents; parental consent on Form D1 (or notarized Form 433) if under 18; corrective lenses if you need them; payment ($15 permit / $20 license / $15 road test) (page 2–4).

🧠

During the Test — How to Answer

STRATEGY

The safest answer is usually correct. When in doubt, pick the option that is most cautious, most yields, or stops the most. Alaska tests reward safe, defensive driving choices.

Watch for "NEVER" and "ALWAYS" options. These are sometimes traps — but in driving law there are many absolute rules (ALWAYS stop for a school bus with flashing reds, NEVER pass on a hill crest, etc.).

"All of the above" is very often the correct answer on knowledge tests — especially for questions about DUI charges, suspension triggers, and violations.

Read every word. Test questions often hinge on words like "divided highway" vs. "undivided," "business district" vs. "residential," or "first offense" vs. "subsequent offense."

Refusing a BAC test — can cost your license. Alaska Implied Consent: refusing the chemical test creates two charges (DUI + Refusal). 1st refusal = 90-day administrative revocation, 7 days to request a hearing. Refusal stays on your record forever (page 14, 17).

The real Alaska DMV knowledge test: 20 multiple-choice questions on rules of the road and signs (combined). Passing score: 80% (16 correct). No time limit. Retake the next day if you fail. Take the test in person at a DMV office or online at ak.knowtodrive.com (fees may apply) (page 7).

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Recommended Study Order

YOUR PLAN

Read Key Numbers tab — memorize every distance, speed, and BAC number

Read Right of Way + DUI tabs — the #1 and #2 failure topics

Read Road Signs + Signals tabs — shapes, colors, and signal meanings

Read School Buses + Parking tabs — specific rules with specific numbers

Take the Full Practice Bank — all available questions to identify weak spots

Use Weak Spots mode — drill every question you got wrong until you nail it

Run the DMV Exam Simulator 3–5 times — pass consistently with 90%+ before going in

Night before: Re-read the Key Numbers tab + Test-Day Tips tab. Good sleep. You've got this. ✅

📖 Alaska DMV Study Guide

Speed Limits

Critical Distances & Clearances

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

Teen / GDL Numbers

Following Distance & Time Rules

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

Traffic Signal Meanings

Lane Markings — Know Each One

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

School Bus Stopping Rules

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

Following Distance — The 4-Second Rule (Alaska minimum: 2 sec)

💡 When to increase beyond the minimum

Passing Rules

Parking Clearance Requirements

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

💡 Memory trick

Alaska Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

Emergency Situations — What to Do

Defensive Driving Principles

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

Before the Test — What to Do

During the Test — How to Answer

Top 10 Topics That Will Definitely Be on Your Test

Recommended Study Order

Ready to test what you've learned?

📖 Alaska DMV Study Guide

What to Study Before the Real Test

Speed Limits

Critical Distances & Clearances

DUI & Alcohol Numbers

Teen / GDL Numbers

Following Distance & Time Rules

Sign Shapes — Each Shape Has One Meaning

Sign Colors — Color Tells You the Category

Signs That Are Frequently Confused

The Core Right-of-Way Rules

Right-of-Way Scenarios That Trick People

Traffic Signal Meanings

Lane Markings — Know Each One

Safe Lane Changing Procedure

DUI Laws — The Numbers You Must Know

Critical DUI Facts to Remember

School Bus Stopping Rules

Speed Laws — What You Must Know

Following Distance — The 4-Second Rule (Alaska minimum: 2 sec)

💡 When to increase beyond the minimum

Passing Rules

Parking Clearance Requirements

Parking on Hills — Wheel Position

💡 Memory trick

Alaska Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL)

Emergency Situations — What to Do

Defensive Driving Principles

Vehicle Equipment Requirements

Headlight Rules That Are Tested

Before the Test — What to Do

During the Test — How to Answer

Top 10 Topics That Will Definitely Be on Your Test

Recommended Study Order

Ready to test what you've learned?