The Alabama driver's license process has three main steps: pass a written test, pass a driving test, and bring the right documents to the Alabama Department of Public Safety

You will visit an Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person. You cannot get a license by mail or online. The office will check your documents, give you a written test on road rules, and schedule your driving test. If you pass both tests, you will receive your license the same day or within a few days, depending on the office.

The entire process — from your first visit to holding your license — usually takes between one and three weeks, because you need time between the written test and the driving test. Some offices let you take both tests on the same day if you pass the written test quickly, but this is not may provide.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an Alabama DPS office in person with your original documents; you cannot start the process online or by mail.
  • The written test covers Alabama traffic laws and safe driving practices, and you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • The driving test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes and tests basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws on public roads.
  • You need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number before your first visit.
  • Alabama charges a fee for the written test, driving test, and license itself; the total cost varies but is typically under $50 for a first-time license.

Documents you must bring to the DPS office

Bring your original documents — photocopies are not accepted. You need one document that proves your identity, one that proves you live in Alabama, and one that proves your Social Security number. A birth certificate counts as identity proof. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement counts as residency proof. A Social Security card counts as SSN proof, but a W-2 or tax return also works.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your original passport or travel document. If you have changed your name since your birth certificate was issued, bring the original document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Do not bring a photocopy of a name-change document; the DPS office must see the original.

If you are under 18, bring a parent or legal guardian with you. They must sign consent forms at the DPS office. Bring their ID as well.

How to schedule your written test appointment

Call your local Alabama DPS office or visit the DPS website to find the office nearest you and get their phone number. Some offices accept walk-ins, but most require an appointment. When you call, tell them you are a first-time driver and ask when they can see you. Wait times vary by location — rural offices may have openings within days, while offices in Birmingham, Montgomery, or Mobile may have a wait of one to three weeks.

Write down the date, time, and office address. Bring all your documents with you. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. The office will collect your documents, take a photo for your license, and give you the written test.

Passing the written test

The written test has 40 questions about Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, and what different road signs mean. You can study using the Alabama Driver's Manual, which the DPS office gives you or which you can read online at the DPS website.

The test is on a computer at the DPS office. You will have time to read each question and choose your answer. If you fail, you can retake the test, but you will have to pay the test fee again and schedule another appointment. Most people pass on their first try if they study the manual for a few hours.

Scheduling and taking your driving test

After you pass the written test, the DPS office will give you a temporary permit that lets you drive with a licensed adult in the car. You will schedule your driving test for a later date — usually one to three weeks later, depending on how busy the office is. You must wait at least one day after passing the written test before you can take the driving test.

On the day of your driving test, bring your temporary permit, your ID, and proof of insurance. Your car must be registered in Alabama and must pass a safety inspection — headlights, taillights, brakes, and windshield wipers all must work. The examiner will check these before the test starts.

The driving test lasts 20 to 30 minutes. The examiner will ask you to drive on public roads and perform tasks like turning, parking, stopping at traffic lights, and merging. You must follow all traffic laws and obey the examiner's directions. If you fail, you can retake the test after paying the fee again and waiting for another appointment.

Getting your license after you pass both tests

If you pass the driving test, you will receive your Alabama driver's license the same day or within a few days. The DPS office will use the photo they took during your written test appointment. Your license will be valid for four years if you are under 18, or eight years if you are 18 or older.

Your license will arrive in the mail if the office does not issue it on the spot. Check the back of your temporary permit for the mailing address and expected arrival date. If your license does not arrive within two weeks, call the DPS office to check the status.

What to do if you fail the written or driving test

If you fail the written test, you can retake it after paying the test fee again. You do not have to wait a set amount of time, but you should study the Alabama Driver's Manual more before your next attempt. If you fail the driving test, you can retake it after paying the fee and scheduling another appointment. Most offices require you to wait at least one week before retaking the driving test.

If you fail the driving test twice, some offices may require you to take a driver education course before you can test again. Ask your DPS office what their policy is. Taking a course can help you understand what you did wrong and improve your skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test and driving test on the same day?

Some Alabama DPS offices allow this if you pass the written test early in the day and the examiner has time. Call your local office to ask if they offer same-day testing. If they do, you will still need to bring all your documents and proof of insurance on that day.

What if I fail the driving test — how soon can I retake it?

You can usually retake the driving test one week after you fail, but policies vary by office. Call your local DPS office to find out their waiting period and to schedule your next test. You will have to pay the test fee again.

Do I need a Social Security number to get an Alabama driver's license?

Yes. You must bring proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot get an Alabama driver's license.

What happens if I move to a different county in Alabama after I get my license?

You do not have to update your license unless you change your address. If you do change your address, you can update it at any Alabama DPS office or online through the DPS website. Bring your current license and proof of your new address.

Can someone else pick up my license if I cannot go to the DPS office?

No. You must pick up your license in person at the DPS office where you took your tests, or it will be mailed to the address you provided. You cannot have someone else collect it for you.