Where to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

The three ways to renew in Alabama

You can renew your Alabama driver's license in person at an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) office, by mail, or online through the state's website. Which option works for you depends on whether you're renewing early, whether your license is expired, and whether you need a Real ID-compliant license.

Most people renew online or by mail because both are faster than going to an office. In-person renewal is required only if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change information on your license, or if you're renewing a Real ID for the first time.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through alabamadmv.gov takes about 10 minutes and works if your license is current or expired less than five years.
Mail renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed form, and payment to the ALEA address in Montgomery.
In-person renewal happens at any ALEA office during business hours, and you'll need your current license, proof of residency, and payment.
Real ID renewals must happen in person the first time; after that you can renew by mail or online if your license stays current.
Renewal fees in Alabama are $25 for a standard license and $30 for a Real ID, and licenses are valid for eight years.

Online renewal through the Alabama DMV website

The fastest way to renew is online at alabamadmv.gov. You'll need your current Alabama driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a payment method (debit or credit card). The process takes about 10 minutes and you'll receive a temporary digital license when ready that you can use while your physical card is mailed to you.

Online renewal is available if your license is current or expired less than five years. You cannot renew online if you need to change your address, name, or other information on the license—those changes require an in-person visit. You also cannot renew online if you're explore for Real ID for the first time.

Your new physical license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $25 for a standard license or $30 for a Real ID.

Mail renewal by sending documents to Montgomery

To renew by mail, complete Form DL-44 (process for Alabama Driver's License), include your current license, and send both with a check or money order to the ALEA address in Montgomery. You do not need to include proof of residency for mail renewal—your current license serves as proof that you live in Alabama.

Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time ALEA receives your envelope. Send your materials to:

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver's License Division P.O. Box 1471 Montgomery, AL 36102

Mail renewal works if your license is current or expired less than five years. Like online renewal, you cannot change your address or name by mail—you must visit an office in person for those changes. You also cannot renew a Real ID by mail if you're explore for the first time.

In-person renewal at an ALEA office

Visit any ALEA office during business hours with your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have different hours. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours at alabamadmv.gov.

In-person renewal is required if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change your address or name, or if you're renewing a Real ID for the first time. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your physical card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

The fee is $25 for a standard license or $30 for a Real ID. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card—not all offices accept checks.

Real ID renewal: first time versus renewal

If you're renewing a Real ID that you already have, you can renew online or by mail just like a standard license, as long as your current Real ID is not expired. The process is the same and takes the same amount of time.

If you're explore for a Real ID for the first time, you must visit an ALEA office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or a W-2 form). The fee is $30 and you'll receive your new Real ID in 7 to 10 business days.

What to do if your license is expired more than five years

If your Alabama license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must visit an ALEA office in person with your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. The process is the same as a standard in-person renewal, and your new license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you cannot find your expired license, bring a government-issued photo ID (such as a passport) instead. ALEA staff can look up your license record using your name and date of birth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Alabama license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew up to six months before your license expires. Early renewal is useful if you're planning to travel or if you want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, not from your original expiration date.

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

Physical licenses arrive in 7 to 10 business days after ALEA processes your renewal. If you renew online, you'll receive a temporary digital license right away that you can use while you wait for the card. Mail renewal takes longer overall because ALEA must first receive and process your envelope.

What if I moved and need to change my address?

You must visit an ALEA office in person to change your address. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and payment. You cannot change your address online or by mail.

Do I need a Real ID to drive in Alabama?

A standard Alabama driver's license is fine for driving within the state. You need a Real ID only if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building. If you're unsure whether you need one, a standard license renewal is simpler and costs $5 less.

What if I lost my current license and can't renew?

If you've lost your license, you'll need to visit an ALEA office in person to report it and get a replacement. Bring a government-issued photo ID and proof of residency. The office will issue you a temporary license on the spot and mail your replacement within 7 to 10 business days.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.