At binding question

Low tech AT bindings (see: Dynafit, Plum, ATK) require an AT boot that has both the pin holes in the toes of the boots but also the pin holes in the heels.

Frame AT binding (see: Salomon Gaurdian, Marker Duke, Tyrolia Adrenaline) can accommodate lugged sole boots, Walk-to-Ride boots, and alpine soles since the AFD plate can slide up and down to make room for the extra material of each specific boots.

Therefore your question probably needs to be more specific to the binding in question.

JaskierDo you have to have AT boots for an AT binding?

Short answer - no.

Correct answer - yes.

If your boot doesn't have a walk mode, your chances of making it anywhere comfortably are quite slim. You don't need to have a touring ski, but you should have touring boots and bindings.