How to Register Motorcycles, Boats, and More in Alaska

A newer Harley Davidson motorcycle
Reading Time: 3 minutes

If you own a motorcycle, boat, or other types of vehicle and plan to use it on Alaska roads or waterways, you’ll need to register and title it accordingly. The process for doing so is similar to registering a car, and it’s important to complete the necessary steps to ensure that you are in compliance with state regulations.

For detailed information on the registration and titling process for different types of vehicles, please refer to the sections below. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions for each type of vehicle to help you navigate the process with ease.

Registering a Motorcycle in Alaska

Registering your new motorcycle in Alaska is a relatively easy process. However, it needs to be done soon after the transaction (30 days, to be specific).

When you register a motorcycle it’s good for up to 2 years. You can register the motorcycle on your own or have a dealership do it on your behalf.

Here is a breakdown of what’s required:

  1. Obtain a motorcycle title.
  2. Get insurance for the motorcycle.
  3. Pass a motorcycle safety course.
  4. Complete the motorcycle registration application.
  5. Pay the registration fee ($60 as of 2021)
  6. Have the motorcycle inspected to ensure it meets Alaska’s emissions and safety standards
  7. Receive the motorcycle registration and affix the registration sticker to the motorcycle.

You will bring your Alaska driver’s license, a completed V1 Vehicle Transaction Application, a signed title, proof of ID, proof o insurance, and money to cover fees to your local AK DMV. Once you have completed all of the necessary steps, you will receive your motorcycle registration. You must affix the registration sticker to your motorcycle to indicate that it is registered.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements for registering a motorcycle in Alaska may vary depending on the circumstances, so it’s a good idea to check with the Alaska DMV or a local licensing office for the most up-to-date information.

Registering a Boat in Alaska

For those wanting to register a boat in the state of Alaska — you will do the following at your local DMV:

  1. Complete the bill of sale: To register a boat in Alaska, you must provide proof of ownership, which can be in the form of a bill of sale. The bill of sale should include the names and addresses of both the buyer and the seller, the purchase price, and a detailed description of the boat.
  2. Obtain a Hull Identification Number (HIN): If your boat is new, it should have a HIN already. If your boat is used and does not have a HIN, you will need to have it inspected and assigned a HIN by a Marine Safety Officer.
  3. Obtain Alaska boat insurance: Boats must have liability insurance to be registered in Alaska. You can obtain boat insurance from a licensed insurance agent in Alaska.
  4. Provide proof of identification: You must provide valid photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport.
  5. Complete the application: You can obtain a B1 boat registration application from the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV). You must provide information about the boat, including the make, model, length, and horsepower.
  6. Pay the registration fee: The fee for registering a boat in Alaska varies depending on the length of the boat
    1. Powered boats: $24
    2. Non-powered boats: $10
    3. Barge registration: $75
    4. Boat title (longer than 24ft): $20
  7. Get the boat inspected: All boats in Alaska must undergo an inspection to ensure they meet Alaska’s emissions and safety standards. The inspection must be completed by an approved inspector.
  8. Receive the registration: Once you have completed all of the necessary steps, you will receive your boat registration. You must affix the registration sticker to your boat to indicate that it is registered.

Complete this process and you will now have fully registered your boat!

Registering a Trailer in Alaska

The process of registering a trailer in the state of Alaska is close to what’s needed for a vehicle.

You generally need to provide the trailer’s title, a completed registration application, proof of insurance, and pay the registration fee. The exact requirements may vary depending on the type of trailer and its intended use.