The documents Alabama requires depend on which license you're getting

Alabama requires different documents based on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or switching from another state. For a first-time license, you'll need proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof that you've passed the written and road tests. The state also requires a medical form if you're over 60 or have certain medical conditions. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies alone won't work.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety (ADPS) runs the licensing system, and they're strict about document requirements. If you show up without the right papers, you'll have to reschedule. This section walks you through exactly what to bring so you don't make an extra trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You need a government-issued photo ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof you live in Alabama, and your Social Security number or ITIN to get your first license.
  • Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days — it must show your name and current address.
  • If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the ADPS office.
  • Bring your test pass certificates (the written test pass and the road test pass) when you go to get your license issued.
  • If you're over 60 or have a medical condition affecting your driving, bring a completed medical form signed by your doctor.

Proof of identity documents Alabama accepts

Alabama accepts a limited list of photo IDs as proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you don't have any of these, you can use a certified birth certificate plus one additional document like a Social Security card, school ID, or employee ID — but the birth certificate must be a certified copy from the vital records office, not a photocopy from your files.

The ID you bring must not be expired (or if it is expired, it can't be more than one year past expiration). If you're bringing an out-of-state license, it will be surrendered to Alabama when you get your new license, so you won't get it back.

Proof of residency: what counts and what doesn't

Proof of residency must show your name and your current Alabama address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a property tax bill all count. Insurance documents, cell phone bills, and medical bills do not count, even if they show your address.

If you're living with someone else and don't have a bill in your name, you can bring a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live there. The letter must include the address and be signed by a notary public. Bring the original utility bill or lease along with the notarized letter.

Social Security number and tax identification

You must provide your Social Security number (SSN) when you explore. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your ITIN — a tax return, W-2, or letter from the IRS all work.

Alabama uses your SSN to check for duplicate licenses and to link your driving record to your identity. The state does not print your full SSN on your license, so providing it is safe.

Test pass certificates and medical forms

After you pass your written test at an Alabama ADPS office, you'll receive a pass certificate. After you pass your road test, you'll get another pass certificate. Bring both certificates when you go to the ADPS office to get your license issued. If you lose either certificate, you'll have to retake that test.

If you're 60 or older, or if you have a medical condition that might affect your ability to drive safely (such as epilepsy, diabetes, heart disease, or vision problems), bring a completed medical form signed by your doctor. The form is called the "Medical Examination Report" and is available on the ADPS website or at any ADPS office. Your doctor must sign and date it within 30 days of your process.

Documents for applicants under 18

If you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign your process in person at the ADPS office. Bring their government-issued photo ID as well. If your parents are divorced or you have a custody order, bring a copy of the custody document or court order showing who has the right to make decisions about your license.

You'll still need all the same documents as an adult (proof of identity, proof of residency, SSN, and test certificates), plus your parent or guardian's signature. Some ADPS offices require an appointment for minors, so call ahead to check.

What to bring if you're switching from another state

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you can exchange it for an Alabama license without retaking the written and road tests. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of Alabama residency, and your Social Security number. You'll still need to pass a vision test at the ADPS office.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you'll have to take both the written and road tests in Alabama, just like a first-time applicant. Bring all the documents listed in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photo from my phone or a printed photo instead of bringing my ID in person?

No. You must bring your original documents in person to an ADPS office. The staff will verify your identity by looking at your actual ID, and they'll take a photo of you for your license at that time. You cannot submit documents by mail or online.

What if my proof of residency is in my spouse's name but we live at the same address?

You can use a utility bill or lease in your spouse's name if you bring a notarized letter from them stating that you live at that address. The letter must include the street address and be signed by a notary public. Bring both the bill and the notarized letter.

Do I need to bring my birth certificate if I have a passport?

No. A valid passport is enough for proof of identity on its own. You don't need to bring a birth certificate if you have a government-issued photo ID that Alabama accepts.

What happens if I bring expired documents?

An expired ID can be used if it expired less than one year ago. Expired proof of residency (older than 60 days) will not be accepted — you'll need to bring a current bill or statement. If your documents don't meet the requirements, the ADPS office will turn you away and you'll have to reschedule.

Can I get my license if I don't have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you don't have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring a document showing your ITIN, such as a tax return, W-2, or letter from the IRS.