Yes, you will need to take a practical driving test to obtain an Alaska driver's license. According to the AK Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV), those with a valid non-commercial out-of-state or out-of-country driver's license is welcome to drive in Alaska, provided that they are at least 16 years of age.

However if you plan to drive in Alaska for more than 90 days, you are required to obtain an Alaska driver license within that 90 day time period. Those that hold a commercial driver's license must obtain an Alaska license within 30 days of becoming a resident.

The AK DMV notes that an applicant who is at least sixteen years of age and holds a valid driver's license from another state or country must meet the following requirements to obtain an Alaska driver's license:

• Surrender their out-of-state or Canadian driver license (If a person's out-of-state license has been lost or stolen, they will be required to obtain a "Letter of Verification" or "Certified Driving Record" from the previous state.)
• Pass a written knowledge test
• Pass a vision test
• Provide proof of legal name, date of birth and social security number
• Pay a fee
• Pass a road test (Not required for applicant's that surrender a valid out-of-state or Canadian driver license.)

In Alaska a driver's license is valid for approximately five years from the date of issue and will expire on your birthday.

You should contact the Alaska DMV directly to see what your next step is so that you can obtain your AK driver's license in exchange for your New Zealand (NZ) license. Once you have a US driver's license it will be easier to register and insure a vehicle while in AK, or another state. You can click here to get cheap student car insurance information.