Federal Rural Alaska Exemption

On December 28th, 2022, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration issued an exemption for the State of Alaska regarding rural communities and Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.
You can read the waiver in its entirety here: Alaska Restricted License Exemption Disposition

Alaska Restricted License ELDT and Skills Testing Exemption. As of July 6, 2023, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has begun issuing these new restricted Commercial Driver Licenses.

FAQ:

What does the exemption say?

The exemption allows the State to waive specified portions of the Commercial Driver License skills test for drivers in 14 defined geographical areas that lack infrastructure to allow completion of the full skills test. Drivers who receive a restricted CDL under the provisions of this exemption are exempt from the Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) regulations.

How long is the exemption good for?

The exemption is effective from December 28, 2022, through December 28, 2024.

What communities can have these types of licenses?

Bethel, Prince of Wales Island, Haines, Ketchikan, King Salmon, Kodiak Island, Kotzebue, Nome, Mitkof Island (Petersburg), Sitka, Skagway, Unalaska Island, Utqiavik, Wrangell Island.

Do I still have to take a skills test?

Yes. The State of Alaska may only waive the portions of the skills test that cannot be performed due to infrastructure limitations in specific communities.

Can I drive in Anchorage with this CDL?

No. Drivers issued a restricted CDL under this exemption may only operate within the 14 identified geographical areas.

I live in a community that isn’t listed. Can I get one of these commercial licenses?

No. Drivers applying for a CDL to be issued under this exemption must reside in one of the 14 geographical areas identified above.

I have an off systems (restriction 7) commercial license. Can I operate in the waiver approved communities?

No. Off system licenses are only valid in these communities: https://doa.alaska.gov/dmv/reg/exempt.htm

What restriction will be on my license?

You will see a restriction 8 on your license, with the verbiage "CDL Waiver Cities Only" on the reverse side of the card.

If/when a driver is removing the 8 restriction will they be required to complete ELDT prior to completing a skills test?

Yes. If a driver is pursuing an unrestricted CDL in an on systems area, they will need to fully comply with ELDT.