Alabama Driver's License Renewal Locations and Methods
You can renew your Alabama driver's license at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Office, by mail through the state's renewal-by-mail program, or online if you meet specific requirements. The method you choose depends on whether your license is expired, how soon you need it, and whether you can pass an online identity verification check. Most people have multiple options available to them, but the fastest route and the documents you'll need vary by method.
Alabama operates 29 Driver License Offices across the state, plus satellite locations in some counties. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though wait times can run 30 minutes to two hours during peak hours (typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays). If you want to avoid waiting, calling ahead to ask about current wait times is common practice, though not all offices staff phones during busy periods.
Key Takeaways
- Alabama DPS Driver License Offices are located in all 67 counties, with some counties having multiple locations; you can find your nearest office and current hours on the Alabama DPS website.
- Online renewal through the Alabama DPS website is available if your license is not expired and you can pass identity verification, and takes about 10 minutes but requires a valid email address and Social Security number.
- Mail renewal is available for certain drivers but requires submitting your current license, a completed process form, and the renewal fee, with processing taking 10 to 15 business days after receipt.
- In-person renewal at a Driver License Office requires your current license, proof of residency, and the renewal fee, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready if your license is not expired.
- Renewal fees in Alabama are $24.50 for a four-year license and $36.75 for an eight-year license, and fees do not vary by renewal method.
In-Person Renewal at an Alabama DPS Driver License Office
In-person renewal is the most straightforward method and works for all drivers whose licenses are not yet expired. You will need to bring your current Alabama driver's license, one document showing your current address (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment for the renewal fee. If your address has changed since your last license was issued, bring the address-change document along with your current license.
The process takes 10 to 20 minutes at the window. You will answer a few questions, have your photo taken, and sign the process. If your current license is not expired, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you. The plastic license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If your license is already expired, you may be required to pass a vision test or written knowledge test depending on how long it has been expired; ask the office staff when you arrive.
To find your nearest Driver License Office, visit the Alabama DPS website and use the office locator tool. Offices are open Monday through Friday, with most locations operating from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though some satellite offices have shorter hours. A few locations offer Saturday hours; check the specific office listing for your county.
Online Renewal Through the Alabama DPS Website
Online renewal is the fastest method if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your current Alabama driver's license is not expired, you have a valid email address, and you can pass the state's online identity verification system. The entire process takes about 10 minutes and you do not need to visit an office or mail anything.
To renew online, go to the Alabama DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. The system will ask you to verify your identity by answering security questions based on your credit history or other personal records. If you pass verification, you will be asked to confirm your address, select your license type and term (four or eight years), and pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation email when ready.
After online renewal, your plastic license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You do not receive a temporary paper license with online renewal, so if you need to drive before your new card arrives, your current license remains valid. Online renewal is not available if your license is expired, if you need to change your address, or if the identity verification system cannot confirm your information.
Mail Renewal for may be able to access Drivers
Mail renewal is available only if your current license is not expired and you meet Alabama's mail renewal criteria. Not all drivers are may be able to access; the state restricts mail renewal to drivers who have no violations, suspensions, or restrictions on their record and who do not need to update their photograph or address. If you are unsure whether you are may be able to access, call your nearest Driver License Office or check the Alabama DPS website before sending in your process.
To renew by mail, request the renewal process form from the Alabama DPS website or pick one up at any Driver License Office. Complete the form, include your current driver's license, and send both along with the renewal fee (check or money order only; credit cards are not accepted by mail) to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 10 to 15 business days after the DPS receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your current license.
Mail renewal is slower than online renewal and requires you to trust the postal service with your current license. Many drivers prefer online or in-person renewal for this reason. If your mail is lost or delayed, contact the DPS to report it and ask about resubmitting your process.
Documents You Need for Each Renewal Method
| Renewal Method | Documents Required | Payment Method | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| In-Person at Driver License Office | Current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) | Cash, check, debit card, or credit card | when ready temporary license; plastic card in 7–10 business days |
| Online via Alabama DPS Website | Driver's license number, date of birth, Social Security number, valid email address | Credit or debit card only | Plastic card in 7–10 business days; no temporary license issued |
| By Mail | Current license, completed renewal process form | Check or money order only | 10–15 business days after receipt |
Renewal Fees and Payment Options
Alabama driver's license renewal fees are $24.50 for a four-year license and $36.75 for an eight-year license. These fees are the same regardless of whether you renew in person, online, or by mail. You do not pay any additional processing or service fees. If you are renewing in person, you can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Mail renewal requires a check or money order.
If you are renewing an expired license, the fee is the same, but you may be required to retake the vision test or written exam depending on how long your license has been expired. Ask the Driver License Office staff about any additional requirements when you arrive.
Common Mistakes and What to Avoid
The most common mistake is arriving at a Driver License Office without proof of your current address. Alabama requires a document dated within 60 days showing your name and address; a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or recent bank statement all work. A credit card statement or insurance card does not count. If you do not have a current address document, you will be turned away and must return another day.
Another frequent error is attempting to renew online when your license is expired. The online system will reject your process if your license has passed its expiration date. If your license is expired, you must renew in person at a Driver License Office. Similarly, if you need to change your address, you cannot use online renewal; you must go in person or use mail renewal with an address-change form.
Do not send your current license by mail unless you are using the official mail renewal program. If you mail your license as part of a name-change request or other transaction, include a cover letter explaining what you are submitting and why, and consider using certified mail with a return receipt so you have proof of delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Alabama driver's license if it is already expired?
Yes, but you must renew in person at a Driver License Office. Online and mail renewal are not available for expired licenses. Depending on how long your license has been expired, you may need to retake the vision test or written knowledge exam. Bring your expired license along with proof of your current address.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
If you renew in person, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, and your plastic card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. If you renew online or by mail, your plastic card arrives in 7 to 10 business days; no temporary license is issued. Your current license remains valid until the new one arrives.
What if I moved and need to change my address on my license?
You must renew in person at a Driver License Office if you are changing your address. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (dated within 60 days), and the renewal fee. Online and mail renewal do not allow address changes.
Do I need an appointment to renew my license at a Driver License Office?
Most Alabama Driver License Offices do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times vary by location and time of day; mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays are typically busier. Some offices may offer appointment scheduling; check your local office's website or call ahead to ask.
Can I renew my license if I have a suspension or restriction on my record?
You can renew in person at a Driver License Office regardless of suspensions or restrictions. However, you are not may be able to access for online or mail renewal if your record includes any violations, suspensions, or restrictions. You must renew in person and address any outstanding issues with the DPS.