Alabama lets you renew online if you meet specific requirements

You can renew your Alabama driver's license online through the state's ALERS system (Alabama License may be able to access and Renewal System) if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs $31.25, and you'll receive your renewed license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit an office or take a new photo unless your license has been expired for more than five years.

Not everyone can use the online system. You must have a valid email address, a credit or debit card to pay the fee, and a Social Security number on file with the Alabama Department of Public Safety. If your license was suspended or revoked, or if you need to change your address, name, or other information beyond a straightforward renewal, you'll need to visit an office in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Alabama's online renewal system (ALERS) works only if your license is current or expired for five years or less, and not suspended or revoked.
  • The renewal costs $31.25 and takes about 10 minutes; your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You need a valid email address, a credit or debit card, and your Social Security number to complete the process online.
  • If your license has been expired for more than five years, suspended, or revoked, you must renew in person at an Alabama office.
  • Address or name changes require an in-person visit; online renewal only handles standard license renewals.

Step-by-step process for renewing online

Go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and select the ALERS link for online renewal. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your record and confirm your current information.

Review your name, address, and other details on the screen. If everything is correct, proceed to payment. Enter your credit or debit card information to pay the $31.25 renewal fee. You'll receive a confirmation number by email, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Keep your confirmation number and email receipt. If your license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number so they can track your renewal.

When you cannot renew online

If your license has been suspended or revoked, the online system will reject your renewal request. You must visit an Alabama office in person, bring proof of the reason for suspension or revocation being resolved (such as proof of payment for unpaid fines or completion of a required course), and explore for reinstatement. The office will tell you what documents you need.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you are no longer may be able to access for online renewal. You'll need to visit an office and explore for a new license, which includes taking a new photo and passing a vision test. Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, and proof of citizenship or legal presence.

If you need to change your name or address beyond what's already on file, or if you want to change your license class (such as adding a motorcycle endorsement), you must renew in person. The online system only handles renewals with no changes to your existing information.

What happens after you submit your renewal

Once you complete your online renewal, the Alabama Department of Public Safety processes your request and prints your new license. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to use it for identification and driving during the 7 to 10 business day wait.

Your new license will be mailed to the address currently on file with the state. If you've moved recently and haven't updated your address with the DMV, your license will go to your old address. In that case, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety before you renew to update your address first, or plan to renew in person so you can provide your current address.

Payment and fees for online renewal

The online renewal fee is $31.25, which covers the cost of your renewed license and processing. This fee is the same whether you renew online or in person. You must pay by credit card or debit card; the system does not accept cash, checks, or money orders.

If your payment is declined, the system will tell you when ready and you can try again with a different card. Your renewal is not submitted until payment is successful, so you won't be charged if the transaction fails.

Tracking your renewed license

After you renew online, check your email for a confirmation message from the Alabama Department of Public Safety. This email contains your confirmation number, which you'll need if you have to contact the state about your renewal. Save this email or write down the confirmation number.

If your license doesn't arrive within 10 business days, call the Alabama Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number. They can tell you whether your license is still in processing, has been mailed, or if there's a problem with your address. Do not assume your renewal failed just because it takes a few extra days; mail delivery times vary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew online if my license is suspended?

No. The online system will reject your renewal if your license is suspended or revoked. You must visit an Alabama office in person and bring documentation that the suspension or revocation has been resolved, such as proof of payment for outstanding fines or completion of a required course.

What if I moved and haven't updated my address yet?

Update your address with the Alabama Department of Public Safety before you renew online, or renew in person so you can provide your new address. If you renew online without updating your address first, your new license will be mailed to your old address.

How long does it take to get my renewed license?

Your renewed license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your online renewal. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to drive and use it for identification.

What if my payment is declined?

The system will tell you when ready if your card is declined. You can try again with a different card right away. Your renewal is not submitted until payment is successful, so you won't be charged for a failed transaction.

Can I change my name or address during online renewal?

No. The online system only handles standard renewals with no changes to your existing information. If you need to change your name, address, or license class, you must renew in person at an Alabama office.