How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Renew in person at an Alabama DMV office or by mail if you meet the requirements

Alabama allows you to renew your driver's license either in person at a Department of Public Safety (DPS) office or by mail, depending on your situation. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes and requires you to bring specific documents and pass a vision test. Mail renewal is faster if you're may be able to access — you skip the office visit entirely — but not everyone qualifies.

Your renewal method depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you've had any suspensions or violations, and how long it's been since your last renewal. If your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years, you must renew in person.

Key Takeaways

Alabama driver's licenses expire on your birthday, five years after issue, and you can renew up to 90 days before expiration.
Mail renewal costs $20.25 and takes about two weeks, but only works if your license is valid and you haven't had violations or suspensions.
In-person renewal at a DPS office costs $28.25, requires a vision test, and takes about 30 minutes.
You must bring a valid photo ID, proof of Alabama residency, and your Social Security number to renew in person.
If your license has been suspended or expired for more than five years, mail renewal is not an option.

Mail renewal: cost, timeline, and may be able to access

Mail renewal costs $20.25 and typically takes 10 to 14 business days from the time the DPS receives your process. You can start the process up to 90 days before your license expires. To use mail renewal, your current license must be valid (not suspended or revoked), you must have a clean driving record with no violations or suspensions in the past five years, and your license cannot have expired more than five years ago.

To renew by mail, you'll need to complete the DL-44 form (process for Alabama Driver's License), include a check or money order for $20.25 payable to the Alabama Department of Public Safety, and mail everything to the address listed on the form. You do not need to include a new photo — the DPS will use your existing photo on file unless you request a new one. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person instead.

Mail renewal does not include a vision test. If your vision has changed significantly or you wear corrective lenses, you should renew in person so the DPS can verify your vision meets Alabama's standards.

In-person renewal at a DPS office

In-person renewal costs $28.25 and takes about 30 minutes at a DPS office. You must renew in person if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years; if you want a new photo; if you've had violations or suspensions; or if you prefer not to use mail. In-person renewal also includes a vision test, so the DPS will check that your eyesight meets the state standard of 20/40 in each eye (with or without corrective lenses).

To renew in person, bring a valid photo ID (such as a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license), proof of Alabama residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. You do not need to bring your current license, but it's helpful to have it. If you've changed your name since your last license was issued, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Find your nearest DPS office on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Most offices operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours. You do not need an appointment — walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than five years

If your Alabama driver's license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it — you must reapply as if you were getting a license for the first time. This means you'll need to pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving skills test. You'll also need to provide proof of identity, Social Security number, and Alabama residency, just as you would for an initial process.

Reapplication takes longer than renewal and costs more. You'll need to schedule a driving test appointment at a DPS office, which can take several weeks depending on demand in your area. If you need to drive before your appointment, you can request a temporary permit that allows you to drive while accompanied by a licensed driver.

License suspension or revocation: what you need to know

If your Alabama driver's license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it by mail or in the normal way. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the DPS. Suspensions and revocations happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, DUI convictions, or accumulating too many points on your driving record.

To find out why your license is suspended or revoked, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety directly or visit a DPS office. Once you've resolved the issue — by paying fines, completing a required program, or waiting out a suspension period — you can renew your license in person. Bring proof that the suspension or revocation has been lifted, along with your other required documents.

Real ID compliance and Alabama driver's licenses

Alabama driver's licenses are not Real ID compliant. If you need a Real ID-compliant document for federal purposes (like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building), you'll need to get an Alabama REAL ID driver's license instead. This is a separate product from a standard driver's license and requires additional documentation, including proof of citizenship or lawful permanent residency.

You can get a REAL ID license when you renew in person at a DPS office. The cost is higher than a standard renewal — $48.25 instead of $28.25 — and you'll need to bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, a birth certificate or passport, and proof of Alabama residency. If you're not sure whether you need REAL ID, check the TSA website or ask at your DPS office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

No. Alabama does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person at a DPS office, but there is no online option. Mail renewal is the closest to online — you complete a form, mail it in, and receive your new license by mail.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

You cannot renew a lost or stolen license. Instead, you'll need to request a duplicate license at a DPS office. Bring a valid photo ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. A duplicate costs $20.25 and takes about 30 minutes.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

No, unless you renew in person. Mail renewal uses your existing photo on file. If you want a new photo, you must renew at a DPS office in person. The DPS will take a new photo as part of the in-person renewal process.

How long is an Alabama driver's license valid?

Alabama driver's licenses are valid for five years from the date of issue. Your license expires on your birthday in the fifth year. You can begin the renewal process up to 90 days before your birthday.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

If you're renewing by mail, include a letter with your new address. If you're renewing in person, bring proof of your new Alabama residency (such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days). The DPS will update your address on your new license.

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.