Alaska Tests

Welcome to the Alaska tests page, with resources on tests and testing services in Alaska in such areas as academic tests, professional licensing exams and driver's tests.

Academic Tests

Alaska Standards Based Assessments (SBA) - Each year students in grades 3-10 must take the  SBA tests in reading, writing and mathematics. They must also take a science test in grades 4, 8 and 10. All tests are in multiple choice format except for the writing exam, which has some constructed response questions.

Alaska High School Graduation Qualifying Exam - The HSGQE measures minimum competencies of essential skills in reading, writing and mathematics.  Passing all three sections of the HSGQE is part of the requirements to receive a high school diploma in Alaska. The exam is first administered in the sophomore year, but students who do not pass can continue to take the sections they failed until graduation.

Professional Tests

Alaska Nursing Assistant and Nurse Aide Guide - Find information on the qualifications to work as a nursing assistant or nurse aide in Alaska.

Alaska Electrician Licensing Exam - Find out how to become a licensed electrician in Alaska.

Alaska Medical Assistant Certification Exam - Find information on how to become certified or registered as a medical assistant in Alaska.

Alaska Professional Counselor Licensing Exam - Find information on the qualifications to become a licensed professional counselor in Alaska, with NCE exam details.

Alaska Nurse Licensing Exam - Find information on the qualifications to become a registered nurse in Alaska.

Alaska Real Estate Agent Licensing and Exam - Find information on how to become a licensed real estate agent in Alaska.

Alaska Life and Health Insurance Agent Licensing - Find information on what it takes to become a life and health insurance sales agent in Alaska.

Alaska Massage Therapist Licensing - Find information on what is required to become a massage therapist in Alaska.

Alaska Plumbing Exams and Licensure - A journeyman plumber needs a license to work in Alaska and must take and pass an exam. Plumbing licenses are issued by the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development. 

Alaska Barber Exams and Licensure - Barbers must pass a written and practical licensing examination. The fee for both exams is $55. The practical includes a demonstration of shaving, hair cutting, styling and similar tasks. Applicants must bring their own supplies. The written exam is multiple choice and has questions on scientific concepts, procedures and laws.

Alaska Mechanical Contractors Testing and Licensing - Mechanical administrators, such as HVAC technicians, must pass a licensing exam. Applicants must score 70 percent or more on the multiple-choice exam in order to pass. The exam is computer-based and open book. The number of questions varies by subject. The cost of the exam is $125.

Alaska Electrical Administrators Testing and Licensure - Alaska requires Electrical Administrators to pass a licensing exam. The exam is computer-based and multiple choice. It is administered by a testing service and is open book, but the references which are allowed and the number of questions varies by subject.

Alaska Marine Pilots Exams and Licensing - Marine pilots must pass a Local Knowledge Examination to be licensed in Alaska. This is in addition to their Core exam. The test is administered by the Board of Marine Pilots and candidates must register two months in advance. The test covers many subjects, including aids to navigation, currents, tides and environmental factors.

Alaska Cosmetologists Testing and Licensing - Alaska Cosmetologists must pass a written and a practical examination to be licensed. The written exam is taken via computer and is multiple choice. The practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their skills at hair cutting, styling, curling and similar tasks. Applicants must bring their own supplies to the practical.

Driver's Tests

Alaska Knowledge Test - An applicant will be required to pass a written knowledge test (or present a valid Alaska learner's permit), a road test and a vision test prior to being issued a driver's license.

Alaska Road Test - Road tests can now be scheduled by the applicant, using an online scheduling system. 

Alaska Commerical Driver's License Testing - Drivers who wish to obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) must pass a vision screening, a written test and a road skills test. Separate knowledge tests are required for each vehicle class and endorsement. A medical exam is also required.

Alaska Motorcycle License Testing - To obtain a motorcycle license, applicants must pass a vision screening, a motorcycle knowledge test and a road skills test. Applicants must also have held a learner's permit for six months. The road skills test may be waived for applicants who complete a new rider safety course from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.