How to Get and Renew Your Driver License in Alabama

What Alabama Requires for a Driver License

Alabama issues a standard driver license valid for eight years from the date of issue. You can explore in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office. The state does not offer online renewal for first-time applicants, but existing license holders can renew by mail or online if they meet certain conditions.

Alabama recognizes both REAL ID-compliant and non-REAL ID driver licenses. A REAL ID license meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. The process is the same for both types — you straightforward choose which one you want when you explore, and the fee is identical.

You must be at least 16 years old to hold a learner permit or provisional license, and at least 18 to hold an unrestricted driver license. If you are under 18, Alabama has specific restrictions on when and where you can drive, and who can be in your vehicle.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS driver license office in person for your first license or if your license has been expired for more than two years.
Alabama requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency — each from a specific list of documents.
The standard eight-year license costs $28.50; a REAL ID license costs the same amount.
Renewal by mail or online is available only if your license is current and you have not had certain violations or address changes.
Processing time at the office is typically 15 to 30 minutes, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

Documents You Need to Bring

Alabama requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You cannot use the same document to satisfy more than one category.

Proof of identity can be a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a foreign passport with a valid U.S. visa, or a previous Alabama driver license or ID card. If you are using a birth certificate, it must be certified and include a raised seal or embossed seal — a photocopy is not acceptable.

Proof of Social Security number can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a paystub, or a benefit statement from Social Security or the Veterans Administration. The document must show your full name and full Social Security number.

Proof of residency must show your current Alabama address and be dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a government check, an insurance policy, or a vehicle registration. A post office change-of-address form is not acceptable on its own.

Step-by-Step Process for a New License

Visit your local DPS driver license office with all required documents. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations accept appointments through the Alabama DPS website — check your county's office page to see if appointments are available.

At the office, you will complete an process form (DL-43) and provide your documents. A staff member will verify your identity and residency, take your photograph, and collect your fee. You will also take a vision screening test at the office.

You will then take a written knowledge test covering Alabama traffic laws and road signs. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day at most offices, though you may have to pay a retest fee.

If you are under 18, you will receive a provisional license with restrictions. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., cannot carry passengers under 21 (except family members), and must follow other rules set by Alabama law. These restrictions lift when you turn 18.

After you pass the test, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed. Your permanent license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewal by Mail or Online

You can renew your Alabama driver license by mail or online if your current license is not expired and you meet all of these conditions: you have no medical suspensions or restrictions, you have not had a name change, you have not had an address change outside Alabama, and you have not had certain traffic violations or convictions since your last renewal.

To renew online, visit the Alabama DPS website and use the online renewal system. You will need your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You will pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the Alabama DPS website or request one by phone. Complete the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail it to the address shown on the form. Processing takes 10 to 15 business days from the date the office receives your form.

If you do not meet the conditions for mail or online renewal, you must visit a DPS office in person. This includes any renewal after your license has been expired for more than two years.

Fees and Payment Methods

A standard eight-year driver license costs $28.50. A REAL ID license also costs $28.50 — there is no additional charge. If you are renewing, the fee is the same.

At a DPS office, you can pay by cash, check, or debit card. Credit cards are not accepted at most offices. If you are renewing by mail, you must send a check or money order — do not send cash through the mail.

If you renew online, you must pay by credit or debit card. The fee is charged when ready when you submit your renewal.

Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Damaged License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must visit a DPS office in person to request a replacement. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency, just as you would for a new license. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening.

A replacement license costs $28.50 and is mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report it to local law enforcement. This creates a record in case someone tries to use it fraudulently.

Special Situations and Restrictions

If you are a non-citizen, you can obtain a driver license if you have a valid visa or other immigration status that allows you to remain in the United States. You will need to provide your passport and visa or immigration document along with the standard proof of identity, Social Security number, and residency.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, Alabama may issue a license with restrictions — for example, corrective lenses only, or daylight driving only. A DPS examiner may require a medical evaluation or a report from your doctor before issuing a restricted license.

If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact the Alabama DPS to find out why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. This may include paying fines, completing a driver improvement course, or waiting out a suspension period.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a driver license in Alabama?

The office visit takes 15 to 30 minutes on average, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Your permanent license is mailed within 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while you wait for the permanent card.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires if you are using mail or online renewal. If you are renewing in person at an office, you can renew at any time. Early renewal does not extend the expiration date — your new license will expire eight years from the date of renewal.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test the same day at most DPS offices. You may have to pay a retest fee, which varies by county. If you fail multiple times, some offices may ask you to wait a few days before trying again.

Do I need a REAL ID license to fly within the United States?

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license or ID card is required for domestic air travel. A standard Alabama driver license without REAL ID compliance will not be accepted at airport security checkpoints. You can request a REAL ID license when you explore or renew.

What happens if my address changes after I get my license?

You must notify the Alabama DPS of an address change. You can update your address online through the DPS website, by mail, or in person at a DPS office. You do not need to get a new license unless you want to — your current license remains valid even if the address is outdated.

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.