How to Title and Transfer a Commercial Vehicle in Alaska

Titling and transferring a commercial vehicle in Alaska involves a more complex process than titling a standard passenger car. Whether you're registering a fleet of delivery vans, a work truck, or a company-owned vehicle, there are specific procedures and additional documentation required by the Alaska Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

This guide will walk you through the full process of titling and transferring a commercial vehicle in Alaska, including the paperwork involved, eligibility rules for businesses, and how to avoid common pitfalls.

What Qualifies as a Commercial Vehicle?

In Alaska, a commercial vehicle is typically defined as one used for business purposes. This includes:

• Pickup trucks or vans used for deliveries
• Vehicles with commercial signage
• Fleet vehicles owned or leased by a company
• Heavy-duty trucks and trailers
• Vehicles transporting goods, equipment, or passengers for compensation

Vehicles weighing over 10,000 pounds or used in interstate commerce may also be subject to federal DOT regulations in addition to state DMV rules.

Required Documents for Title and Transfer

Before heading to the DMV, gather the following:

• Proof of Ownership: The existing Alaska Certificate of Title signed over by the seller.
• Bill of Sale: Includes buyer/seller information, sale price, date, and vehicle details.
• Application for Title and Registration (Form 812): Required for all vehicle transfers.
• Commercial Use Disclosure: Indicate the vehicle’s commercial purpose on the application.
• Valid Business License: Required if registering under a business name.
• Proof of Insurance: Must meet Alaska's minimum liability coverage. Commercial policies are often higher than personal ones.

For vehicles coming from out of state, you’ll also need an Out-of-State Title and possibly a VIN inspection.

How to Title the Vehicle Under a Business Name

If your company owns the vehicle, the title must be issued in the business’s legal name. This requires:

1. A valid Alaska business license
2. The business’s Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN) or Tax ID
3. An authorized representative listed on the application

Keep in mind, the DMV may request additional verification or documentation depending on your business structure (LLC, corporation, sole proprietorship, etc.).

Title Transfer Fees for Commercial Vehicles

Fees vary based on the vehicle’s weight class, type of registration, and title services requested. At a minimum, expect to pay:

• Title fee: $15
• Registration fee: Starts at $100+ for commercial-class vehicles
• Lien recording fee (if applicable): $15
• Municipal taxes or local surcharges: Varies by location

Rush processing may be available for an additional cost. Learn more in the Alaska Title Transfer Fees and Costs guide.

Transferring Titles for Leased or Financed Commercial Vehicles

When a leased or financed commercial vehicle is being transferred:

• Lienholders must release their interest on the title
• The new business owner must ensure the lien release is properly documented
• The DMV may hold the title until financing is complete

For more help, read the Alaska Lien Release Guide.

Temporary Permits While Awaiting Title

If you’ve purchased a commercial vehicle and need to operate it before the title transfer is complete, you can apply for a Temporary Operating Permit (TOP). This is especially useful for commercial operations that can’t afford downtime.

• TOPs are valid for up to 30 days
• Available at DMV offices upon application and proof of sale

Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

• Double-check vehicle weight and usage classification to avoid incorrect fees or title rejection
• Ensure business name consistency across all documents (license, title application, insurance)
• Confirm the seller is authorized to transfer a company vehicle (especially if purchasing from a fleet)
• If the title is missing, do not proceed without resolving—see what to do in What Happens if a Title is Missing at Sale?

Properly titling and transferring a commercial vehicle ensures your business stays compliant with Alaska DMV regulations and avoids costly penalties or delays. From securing the right paperwork to accurately identifying your business on the title, attention to detail pays off—especially when you're managing a fleet or planning for future vehicle sales.