The cost of a replacement license in Alabama
A replacement driver's license in Alabama costs $20.25 if you are renewing or replacing a regular Class D license. This is the standard passenger vehicle license. If you hold a different license class — such as a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a motorcycle endorsement — the fee may be higher.
The $20.25 fee covers the license itself and the processing. You pay this amount whether you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, or whether you are renewing an expired one. Some people use "replacement" and "renewal" interchangeably, but Alabama treats them slightly differently in terms of timing and what documents you need to bring.
You will pay this fee at the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office when you submit your process in person. Alabama does not allow you to renew or replace a license by mail or online, so a visit to your local DPS office is required.
Key Takeaways
- A replacement Class D driver's license in Alabama costs $20.25 at the Department of Public Safety office.
- Commercial driver's licenses and licenses with motorcycle endorsements cost more than the standard $20.25 fee.
- You must explore in person at a DPS office; Alabama does not process replacements by mail or online.
- Bring your current license or state ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number when you go to replace your license.
When you need a replacement versus a renewal
A replacement is what you get when your license is lost, stolen, damaged, or when you change your name or address. You can request a replacement at any time, even if your license has years left before it expires. The fee is the same: $20.25.
A renewal happens when your license is still valid but approaching its expiration date. In Alabama, a Class D license is valid for four years. You can renew up to six months before your expiration date. The renewal fee is also $20.25, and you will receive a new card with a new expiration date four years out.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, you should report it to local law enforcement or the DPS office itself. This creates a record and protects you if someone tries to use the old license fraudulently. The DPS will note this in their system when you explore for the replacement.
What documents to bring to the DPS office
When you go to replace your license, bring your current Alabama driver's license or state ID if you still have it. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a photo ID from another source — a passport, military ID, or school ID will work. You will also need to provide your Social Security number; the DPS will verify it during your visit.
Bring proof of residency showing your current Alabama address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you recently moved and your address on your current license is outdated, this proof of residency becomes especially important.
If you are replacing your license because you changed your name — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring the document that proves the change. This could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will not issue a replacement with a new name without this documentation.
How long the replacement takes
You will receive your replacement license on the spot when you visit the DPS office, assuming all your documents are in order and the office has no backlog. The license is printed while you wait, and you can leave with it the same day. This is one of the fastest parts of the process — there is no waiting period after you pay the $20.25 fee.
However, DPS offices vary in how busy they are. Some offices have short wait times; others may have a line. It is worth calling your local DPS office ahead of time to ask about current wait times, or you can check their website for information about peak hours. Going early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.
License classes and higher fees
The $20.25 fee applies to a standard Class D license for regular passenger vehicles. If you hold a different license class, the replacement cost is higher. A Class A, B, or C commercial driver's license costs more to replace because these licenses require additional testing and background checks. The exact fee depends on which commercial class you hold.
If you have a motorcycle endorsement added to your license, there is an additional endorsement fee on top of the base license fee. The same applies if you have other endorsements, such as for towing or hazardous materials. When you go to replace your license, the DPS office will calculate the total fee based on your specific license type and endorsements.
If you are unsure what class of license you hold, look at your current license card. The class is printed clearly on the front. If you have lost your license and do not remember the class, call your local DPS office and they can look it up using your driver's license number or Social Security number.
Where to go in Alabama
The Alabama Department of Public Safety operates driver's license offices across the state. You can visit any DPS office to replace your license; you do not have to go to the office in your county, though most people do for convenience. The DPS website has a location finder that shows all offices, their hours, and their phone numbers.
Some offices are busier than others. If your local office has long wait times, you may be able to visit a less busy office in a nearby town. Call ahead to ask about wait times before you make the trip. Many offices are closed on weekends and some state holidays, so check the hours before you go.
What happens after you pay
Once you pay the $20.25 fee and your documents are verified, the DPS office will take a new photo and print your replacement license. Your old license becomes invalid as soon as the new one is issued. If you still have the old license, you can keep it as a souvenir, but it cannot be used for identification or driving.
Your new license will have a new expiration date. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the expiration date stays the same as your original license — you do not get extra time. If you are renewing because your license is about to expire, the new expiration date will be four years from the date you renew.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it is not expired yet?
Yes. You can replace your license at any time if it is lost, stolen, damaged, or if you need to change your name or address. The $20.25 fee is the same whether your license is brand new or about to expire. Your new license will keep the same expiration date as your original license unless you are also renewing.
What if I do not have proof of residency?
You will need to bring proof of residency showing your current Alabama address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, ask the DPS office what other documents they accept. In some cases, a letter from your employer or a recent tax return may work. Call ahead to ask what alternatives they will take.
Do I have to go in person, or can I mail in my replacement?
You must go in person to a DPS office. Alabama does not process driver's license replacements or renewals by mail or online. You will need to visit an office, bring your documents, pay the $20.25 fee, and have your photo taken. The replacement is issued the same day.
What if my name changed since my last license?
Bring the document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS will not issue a replacement with your new name without this proof. Once you provide it, the replacement fee is still $20.25, and you will receive your new license with your updated name the same day.
Is the $20.25 fee the same for everyone?
The $20.25 fee applies to a standard Class D license. If you hold a commercial driver's license or have endorsements like a motorcycle endorsement, the fee will be higher. Ask the DPS office about the exact cost for your license class before you pay, or call ahead to confirm.