by Armando Martinez
License Plate Transfer Process in Alaska
In Alaska, license plates stay with the vehicle unless the seller has personalized or specialty plates. If so, then the seller will need to remove these plates and surrender them to the Alaska Department of Motor Vehicles.
When you buy a vehicle, you have ten days to register it in your name. To obtain a license plate (Alaska law requires only one plate placed on the back of your vehicle), you must visit a local Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office. You will need to bring the vehicle's title, proof of insurance, and a valid driver's license. You will also need to pay a license plate fee and registration fee, which can vary depending on the type of vehicle.
License Plate Fees in Alaska
The license plate fees in Alaska vary depending on the type of vehicle and type of license plate you are requesting. Here are the fees for some common vehicle types:
- Passenger cars: $0 for standard issue Gold or Grizzly Bear plates. Up to $100 for personalized plates
- Motorcycles: $60
- Trucks: $100-$200, depending on the weight and type of truck
In addition to the license plate fee, there are other fees associated with buying or selling a car in Alaska. These fees include:
- Sales Tax: Alaska does not have a state sales tax, but some local jurisdictions may impose a sales tax on vehicles. The sales tax rate varies depending on the jurisdiction.
- Title Transfer Fee: The title transfer fee in Alaska is $15.
- Registration Fee: The registration fee in Alaska varies depending on the type of vehicle. Passenger cars have a registration fee of $100.
It's important to note that these fees are subject to change, so be sure to check with the local DMV office or visit http://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/reg/require.htm for the most up-to-date information.
Conclusion
When buying or selling a car in a private party sale in Alaska, ensure you understand the license plate transfer process and fees. Remember that the license plate does not automatically transfer to the new owner, and the buyer must obtain their own license plate from a local DMV office. Also, be prepared to pay additional fees such as sales tax, title transfer fee, and registration fee. For a guide to the different license plate options in Alaska, visit https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/plates/index.htm.
This article was written by Armando Martinez. Armando Martinez is among the nation’s experts on automotive titling, registration, DMV services and document operations. With nearly two decades of experience across a broad range of financial services functions and some of the largest names in auto, from Wells Fargo to Uber, Armando combines vision and ingenuity with a wealth of information so auto shoppers and sellers can learn from his experience.
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