Alaska Motorcycle Manual 2024

In recent years, the popularity of motorcycle riding has been steadily increasing in Alaska. The State Highway Safety Planning Agency reports significant increases in motorcycle registrations and operator licenses. Unfortunately, there have also been increases in motorcycle injuries and deaths on the road. Getting familiar with the information presented in the State of Alaska Motorcycle Operator Manual is a good first step, not only for acquiring your motorcycle license, but also to reinforce the principles of safe riding.

AK Types of Licenses

There are two different types of licenses available in Alaska – the M1 endorsement and the M2 endorsement.

The M1 endorsement allows drivers to operate motorcycles, motorized scooters, motor-driven cycles and motorized bicycles. M1 applicants must be at least 16 years of age. Those under 18 are required to have their learner’s permit for at least 6 months, in addition to parental consent. The M2 is the basic endorsement, allowing holders to operate motorized scooters, motor-driven cycles and motorized bicycles.

The first thing to do is to decide which endorsement you will require, then pay special attention to those sections in the Operator Manual.

Use Your Head

Although motorcyclists above the age of 18 are not required to wear helmets by law in Alaska, they can prevent major injuries that may occur during accidents. The Manual talks about selecting the right gear to avoid such injuries. This is especially important for novice riders, since crashes are particularly common amongst beginners. Alaskan roadways can also be very unforgiving when it comes to accidents on two-wheelers. The valuable information in the Manual will help you select the helmet that is right for you.

What’s in the AK Motorcycle Manual?

While the Alaska Motorcycle Manual isn’t going to be able to teach you everything you need to know about riding a motorcycle, it does contain a wealth of information that will help learners pass the motorcycle knowledge test. It talks about the following key issues:

• Preparing to ride
• Familiarity with the motorcycle
• Positioning on the road
• Dangerous situations
• Responding to emergencies
• Mechanical failure
• Riding with passengers and cargo
• Group riding
• Effects of drugs and alcohol
• Selecting the proper equipment
• Getting the license

The Manual is a comprehensive resource for both beginner and experienced riders. It’s available at any Alaska DMV office, by post, for free download from the DMV website, or below. Start getting ready today and be one step closer to getting your Alaska motorcycle learner’s permit!