Alaska Motorcycle Practice Test 2025

AS § 28.35.240 requires ALL motorcycle operators and passengers to wear a DOT-approved helmet (FMVSS 218 standard), regardless of age or experience. Alaska has a universal helmet law with no age exception, no experience waiver, and no financial hardship exemption. Look for the DOT sticker on the back of the helmet — novelty helmets without the sticker do not satisfy the law.

Alaska requires motorcycle operators and passengers to wear approved protective eyewear — goggles, safety glasses, or a face shield — unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield that adequately protects the rider's eyes. Eye protection prevents wind, insects, and road debris from impairing vision at highway speeds. This requirement is in addition to the helmet law.

No. In Alaska, completing the MSF Basic RiderCourse (BRC) or an approved state-equivalent waives the motorcycle road skills test only. Applicants must still pass the written knowledge test (25 questions, 80% passing score) at a DMV office or through ak.knowtodrive.com. Bring your MSF course completion card when applying.

No. Lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) is illegal in Alaska. Motorcyclists must occupy a full traffic lane. No more than two motorcycles may ride side by side within a single lane. Alaska does not have a lane filtering exception.

The same DUI thresholds that apply to car drivers apply to motorcycle riders under AS § 28.35.030. The adult per se threshold is 0.08% BAC. Riders under 21 face absolute sobriety — any detectable amount of alcohol. A BAC of 0.16% or more triggers aggravated DUI. A first implied consent refusal results in a 90-day license revocation.

The Alaska motorcycle endorsement knowledge test consists of 25 multiple-choice questions. Applicants must correctly answer at least 20 questions (80%) to pass. The test is available at Alaska DMV offices or online at ak.knowtodrive.com. It covers Alaska-specific laws, MSF riding techniques, protective gear, and hazard avoidance.

Countersteering is the primary technique for initiating turns on a motorcycle at speeds above approximately 12 mph. To turn left, push forward on the left handlebar; to turn right, push forward on the right handlebar. On Alaska's remote highways and mountain curves, countersteering must be an automatic response for safe, controlled cornering.

Slow down immediately and stop at a safe distance — do not attempt to pass or drive around a moose. Moose weigh 800–1,500 lbs, stand at rider height, and are unpredictable — they may charge if startled. Wait for the moose to leave the roadway on its own. A moose collision at any speed is typically fatal for a motorcyclist.

Alaska has extensive gravel roads and gravel frequently spreads onto paved surfaces near road transitions. On gravel: reduce speed significantly, reduce lean angle in corners, avoid sudden braking or steering, and be prepared for dramatically reduced traction. Many Alaska paved roads end or transition to gravel without warning — watch for transition signs and slow down before the surface changes.

Alaska's weather is highly variable and can drop to near-freezing even in summer, especially at elevation or in mountain passes. Hypothermia reduces dexterity and impairs clutch and brake control. Alaska motorcycle riders should wear insulated, layered gear year-round, carry additional warm layers, and use heated grips or vests for longer rides. Never underestimate how quickly weather can change on an Alaska highway.