What You Need to Get an Alabama Learner's Permit

Alabama issues a learner's permit to drivers aged 15 and older who pass a written knowledge test and meet document requirements. You do not need to have a job, a specific income, or a sponsor — you need proof of identity, proof of Alabama residency, and a passing score on the written exam. The permit lets you drive with a licensed adult in the front seat and is valid for five years from the date of issue.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) handles all learner's permits. You cannot get one online or by mail; you must visit a driver license office in person with your documents and take the test on the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring a valid ID, proof of Alabama residency, and your Social Security number to get a learner's permit.
  • The written test covers Alabama traffic laws and road signs and costs between $20 and $25, depending on your county.
  • You can study for free using the Alabama DPS driver manual, available online or in print at any driver license office.
  • A learner's permit is valid for five years and allows you to drive with a licensed adult aged 21 or older in the front passenger seat.
  • You must hold your learner's permit for a minimum of 30 days before you can take the road test for a regular driver's license.

Documents You Must Bring to the Driver License Office

Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, or a state ID card. If you do not have one of these, you can bring a combination of documents — ask your local driver license office which combinations they accept, because rules vary slightly by county office.

You also need proof that you live in Alabama. A utility bill, lease agreement, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you live with a parent or guardian and are not on the utility bill, bring a signed letter from the homeowner or renter plus a copy of their ID and proof of residency.

Bring your Social Security number or your Social Security card. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.

The Written Knowledge Test and What It Covers

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test is given on a computer at the driver license office and takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

Study the Alabama Driver Manual, which covers everything on the test. The manual is free and available as a PDF on the Alabama DPS website or in print at any driver license office. Many people study it for one to two weeks before taking the test. You can retake the test if you fail, but you will pay the fee again.

The test fee ranges from $20 to $25 depending on which county office you visit. Pay in cash or card at the office.

Age Requirements and Parental Consent

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Alabama. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the process in person at the driver license office. Bring their ID and proof of their relationship to you — usually a birth certificate or custody papers.

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent. You can explore on your own with just your ID and residency proof.

Restrictions While Driving on Your Learner's Permit

With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver aged 21 or older sitting in the front passenger seat at all times. That person must have a valid driver's license in their possession. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot have only younger passengers in the car.

There are no restrictions on the hours you can drive or the roads you can use — you can drive on highways and at night as long as a licensed adult is with you. However, your supervising driver is responsible for your safety and can be held liable if you cause an accident.

How Long Your Learner's Permit Is Valid

An Alabama learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You must hold it for a minimum of 30 days before you can take the road test for a regular driver's license. Many people hold it for several months while they practice driving and build confidence.

If your permit expires before you take the road test, you will need to renew it. Renewal requires visiting a driver license office again and paying another fee, but you do not have to retake the written test.

Finding Your Local Driver License Office and Hours

Alabama has driver license offices in every county. Find the office nearest you on the Alabama DPS website by entering your county name. The website lists the address, phone number, and hours of operation for each location.

Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have extended hours one or two evenings per week. A few offices are open on Saturday. Call ahead or check the website to confirm hours before you go, because some offices close for lunch or have limited hours on certain days.

Bring all your documents in one visit — you cannot complete the process in multiple trips. Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes at the office for the entire process: document review, the written test, and payment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. Bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for a number. The driver license office will accept this in place of your Social Security card or number.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or return another day. You will pay the test fee again each time you take it. Most people pass on the second attempt after studying the manual more carefully.

Do I need to take a road test to get my learner's permit?

No. The learner's permit requires only the written test. You take a separate road test later, after holding your permit for at least 30 days, to get your regular driver's license.

Can someone else sign the parental consent form if my parent cannot come to the office?

No. A parent or legal guardian must sign the form in person at the driver license office with their ID present. If neither parent can attend, bring custody papers or a court order naming your legal guardian, and that person must come instead.

What if I move to a different county after I get my learner's permit?

Your permit remains valid across Alabama. You do not need to reapply or transfer it to a new county. You can use it to drive anywhere in the state for the full five-year period.