How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

What You Need to Know About Alabama License Renewal

Alabama allows you to renew your driver's license in person at a DMV office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website. The method you use depends on your license type, how long it has been expired, and whether you need to update your address or photograph. Most Alabama drivers renew every four years, though some commercial and CDL licenses have different cycles.

You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photograph, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license. Mail renewal is available only if your license is not expired and you do not need to change your address or photograph. If either of those conditions applies, you must go to a DMV office in person.

Key Takeaways

Alabama offers online renewal through the ALEA website for standard driver's licenses that are not expired and do not require a new photo or address change.
In-person renewal at an ALEA office is required if your license is expired, you need a new photograph, or you are renewing a commercial license.
Mail renewal is available only if your license is current and you do not need to update your address or photograph.
Renewal fees in Alabama are $25.50 for a four-year standard license, and you will need your Social Security number and current license number to start the process.
Processing times vary: online renewal is when ready, mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days, and in-person renewal is usually completed the same day.

Online Renewal Through the ALEA Website

The fastest way to renew is online at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website. You will need your current driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will verify your identity and pull your existing information from the ALEA database. If everything matches and your license is not expired, you can complete the renewal in about 10 minutes.

After you submit payment, your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You cannot use online renewal if your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need a new photograph, or if you want to change your address. If any of those explore, you must renew in person at an ALEA office.

In-Person Renewal at an ALEA Office

Visit your local ALEA Driver License office if your license is expired, if you need a new photograph, or if you are renewing a commercial license. Bring your current driver's license, proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of Alabama residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

The office will take a new photograph, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. You will pay the renewal fee ($25.50 for a four-year standard license) and receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. Your new license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. ALEA offices do not require appointments, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the ALEA website for your nearest office and its hours before you go.

Mail Renewal for Current Licenses

If your license is not expired and you do not need to change your address or photograph, you can renew by mail. Send your current driver's license, the completed renewal form (available on the ALEA website), and a check or money order for $25.50 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash.

Mail your renewal at least two weeks before your license expires to allow time for processing. The ALEA will mail your new license back to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days of receiving your process. If your mail renewal is lost or delayed, you can contact the ALEA to request a replacement or renew in person instead.

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

A four-year standard driver's license renewal costs $25.50 in Alabama. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and depends on the class and endorsements on your license. Payment methods vary by renewal route: online renewal accepts debit or credit cards, mail renewal requires a check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card at most offices (though some locations may have different payment options, so call ahead if you are unsure).

There are no additional fees for address changes or name changes during renewal, as long as you provide the required documentation. If you renew in person and need a replacement license before your new one arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at no extra cost.

What Happens If Your License Is Expired

If your Alabama driver's license has been expired for five years or less, you can renew it using any of the three methods (online, mail, or in person), though online is not available if it has been expired for more than five years. If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at an ALEA office and will need to provide all the same documents as a first-time applicant, including proof of Social Security number and residency.

Driving on an expired license is illegal in Alabama, even if you have submitted a renewal process. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can show proof that you have applied for renewal, but this does not may provide you will avoid a citation. Renew as soon as possible after your license expires to avoid this risk.

Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Renewal

Commercial driver's licenses in Alabama must be renewed in person at an ALEA office. You cannot renew a CDL online or by mail. Bring your current CDL, proof of Social Security number, proof of Alabama residency, and a valid medical certificate (FMCSA Form 649-C or 649-D) if your CDL requires one. The medical certificate must be dated within the last 24 months.

CDL renewal fees depend on the class of license and any endorsements (such as hazmat or passenger). The ALEA office will tell you the exact fee when you arrive. Processing is usually completed the same day, and you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Alabama license if I have moved out of state?

No. Alabama requires you to maintain residency in the state to hold an Alabama driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you should obtain a license from your new state instead. If you still have property or family in Alabama and plan to return, contact the ALEA to discuss your situation before renewing.

What if I lost my current license and need to renew?

You cannot renew online or by mail if you do not have your current license number. Go to an ALEA office in person with proof of Social Security number and residency. The office will look up your license information in the system and process your renewal. You will pay the standard renewal fee plus a replacement fee for the lost license.

How long does it take to receive my renewed license in the mail?

Standard processing time is 7 to 10 business days from the date the ALEA receives your process or payment. If you renew online or by mail, allow extra time for mail delivery to and from the ALEA. If your license does not arrive within 14 days, contact the ALEA to check the status.

Can I change my address during renewal without going to an office?

No. If you need to change your address, you must renew in person at an ALEA office. Online and mail renewal are available only if your address remains the same. Bring proof of your new Alabama residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days) when you visit.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) to your in-person renewal appointment. The ALEA will update your name in the system and issue a new license with the correct name. You cannot update your name through online or mail renewal.

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.