The Mobile Driver's License Office and What It Handles
The Alabama Department of Public Safety Driver's License Division operates a driver's license office in Mobile that issues, renews, and replaces licenses for residents of Mobile County and surrounding areas. This office is the only place in Mobile where you can take your written test, road test, or complete an in-person renewal if your license has expired or been suspended.
The Mobile office does not handle commercial driver's license (CDL) testing — those tests are administered at a separate CDL testing facility. If you need a CDL, you will be directed to the correct location when you call or visit.
Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by day and time of day. The office does not take appointments for most transactions, so arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.
Key Takeaways
- The Mobile Driver's License Office is located at 951 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36604, and is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
- You can renew your license in person, take your written test, take your road test, or replace a lost or stolen license at this office.
- Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and Social Security card; requirements vary slightly depending on whether you are renewing, replacing, or testing for the first time.
- Road tests must be scheduled in advance by calling the office directly — you cannot schedule online or walk in for a test.
- The office does not accept appointments for written tests or renewals, so plan for potential wait times during peak hours.
Office Location, Hours, and Contact Information
The Mobile Driver's License Office is located at 951 Government Boulevard, Mobile, AL 36604. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. The office is closed on weekends and state holidays.
You can reach the office by phone at (251) 242-3600. Call ahead if you have questions about what documents to bring or if you need to schedule a road test. The phone line is typically busiest in the morning and early afternoon.
Parking is available on-site. The building is accessible to people with mobility disabilities, and staff can provide information if you need it.
What Documents You Need to Bring
The documents required depend on whether you are renewing an existing license, replacing a lost or stolen license, or taking a test for the first time. All transactions require proof of identity and proof of Alabama residency.
For a renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you may need to retake the written test.
For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged license), bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security card. You will pay a replacement fee and receive your new license on the spot or by mail within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the type of replacement.
For a first-time license or test, bring your Social Security card, proof of residency, proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or state ID), and proof of your Alabama residency. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.
Written Test, Road Test, and Renewal Procedures
The written test (knowledge test) covers Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it at the Mobile office without an appointment. The test is administered on a computer and takes about 30 minutes. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or return another day.
The road test must be scheduled by phone at (251) 242-3600. You cannot schedule online or walk in for a road test. When you call, provide your name, date of birth, and preferred test date and time. Road tests are typically scheduled 1 to 3 weeks in advance, depending on availability. You must bring your current learner's permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card. The renewal process takes about 15 to 30 minutes depending on wait time. You will not retake the written or road test unless your license has been expired for more than five years or you have had violations or suspensions.
Fees and Payment Methods
Driver's license fees in Alabama vary by license type and duration. A standard four-year driver's license costs $25.50. A six-year license costs $37.50. A replacement license (for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses) costs $20.00. A written test retake costs $5.00 if you fail on your first attempt.
The Mobile office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Exact change is not required, but having cash on hand can speed up the transaction. If you pay by check, bring a valid ID.
When You Cannot Use the Mobile Office
The Mobile office cannot issue a commercial driver's license (CDL). If you need a CDL, you must go to the Alabama CDL Testing Center, which is located separately. Call the Mobile office at (251) 242-3600 to ask for the address and phone number of the nearest CDL testing facility.
The Mobile office also cannot issue a Real ID-compliant license on the same day. If you need a Real ID, you must explore in person and then wait for your license to arrive by mail. Real ID licenses take 7 to 10 business days to arrive after you submit your process.
If your license has been suspended or revoked due to unpaid fines, traffic violations, or other legal issues, you must resolve those issues before the office can renew or replace your license. Call ahead to confirm your license status before visiting.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
The most common mistake is bringing incomplete or incorrect documents. Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days — an old utility bill or lease will not be accepted. Bring multiple documents if you are unsure whether one will be accepted.
Another frequent error is not scheduling a road test in advance. Many people arrive at the office expecting to take a road test the same day and are turned away. Road tests must be scheduled by phone at least several days ahead.
If you are under 18, arriving without a parent or guardian will delay your transaction. Minors cannot complete a license process without a parent or legal guardian present.
Finally, do not assume your license status online. If you have had violations, suspensions, or unpaid fines, call the office before visiting to confirm you are may be able to access to renew or replace your license.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online instead of going to the Mobile office?
Alabama offers online renewal for some drivers, but only if your license is not expired and you have no suspensions or violations. Check the Alabama Department of Public Safety website to see if you are may be able to access. If you are not, you must renew in person at the Mobile office.
How long does a road test take, and how many times can I retake it?
A road test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. You can retake the test if you fail, but you must schedule each attempt by phone. There is no limit to the number of retakes, but each retake costs $5.00.
What if my license is suspended or revoked?
You cannot renew or replace a suspended or revoked license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it.
Do I need an appointment to take the written test?
No. The written test is offered on a walk-in basis at the Mobile office. However, wait times can be long during peak hours, so arriving early in the morning or mid-week is recommended.
What should I do if I fail the road test?
Call the Mobile office at (251) 242-3600 to schedule your next road test. You can retake it as soon as the next available opening, which is typically within 1 to 3 weeks. There is a $5.00 fee for each retake.