How to Get Your Alabama Driver's Permit: Requirements and Steps

What You Need to Know About Alabama Permits

Alabama issues two types of permits: a learner's permit (also called a learner's license) and a restricted license. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car; a restricted license is for drivers under 18 who have completed certain requirements and can drive with fewer adult supervision rules. Both are issued by the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS), and the requirements and fees differ depending on your age and what you're trying to do.

You cannot skip the learner's permit stage in Alabama. You must hold it for a minimum of 30 days before you can take the road test for a full license. If you're under 18, you'll also need to complete a driver education course and hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months before you're may be able to access for a restricted license.

The process moves in one direction: learner's permit first, then restricted license (if under 18), then full license. You cannot explore for a full license without proof that you held the learner's permit for the required time.

Key Takeaways

You must hold an Alabama learner's permit for at least 30 days before taking a road test, or 6 months if you're under 18 seeking a restricted license.
Applicants under 18 must complete a state-approved driver education course and provide proof of completion when explore for a learner's permit.
You will need a Social Security number, proof of identity, proof of residency, and a completed process form (DL-44) at the DPS office.
The written test covers Alabama traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
Fees vary by age and license type, and you will pay separately for the permit, the road test, and the final license.

Age-Based Requirements for Learner's Permits

Alabama divides permit applicants into two groups: those 18 and older, and those under 18. The rules are stricter for younger drivers.

If you are 18 or older, you can explore for a learner's permit without driver education. You need to pass the written test and pay the permit fee. You must hold the permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test. There is no restricted license stage for you; once you pass the road test, you move directly to a full license.

If you are under 18, you must complete a state-approved driver education course before you explore for a learner's permit. This course includes classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel training. You will need to bring proof of completion (a certificate from the school) to the DPS office. You must also hold your learner's permit for at least 6 months before you can take the road test for a restricted license, and you cannot take the road test until you turn 15½.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted. You will need:

A completed DL-44 form (process for Driver License or Permit). You can fill this out at home or at the office.
Proof of your Social Security number: your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form.
Proof of identity: a certified birth certificate, passport, or military ID.
Proof of Alabama residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days, with your name and current address.
If you are under 18: a certificate of completion from your driver education course.
If you are under 18: a parent or guardian must sign the process in person at the DPS office.

Bring the originals of these documents. The DPS office will make copies for your file. If any document is not in English, bring a certified English translation as well.

The Written Test: What to Expect

The written test covers Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You will answer 50 multiple-choice questions on a computer or on paper, depending on the office. You must score at least 80 percent (40 out of 50 questions correct) to pass.

The test is offered in English and Spanish. If English is not your first language, you may bring an interpreter, but the interpreter cannot be a family member or someone with a financial interest in your outcome. You will need to request an interpreter when you schedule your appointment or arrive at the office.

You can take the written test as many times as you need. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. However, you will pay the permit fee each time you take the test, so passing on your first try saves money.

Fees and Payment

Permit and license fees in Alabama are based on age and the length of validity. Fees change periodically, so confirm the current amount when you visit or call the DPS office. Generally, a learner's permit costs less than a full license, and licenses for drivers under 21 cost more than those for drivers 21 and older.

You pay the permit fee when you explore for the learner's permit. You pay a separate road test fee when you take the road test. You pay a third fee when you receive your full license. The DPS office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card at most locations, but call ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific office.

If you fail the road test, you do not pay the road test fee again; you only pay it once when you pass. However, you do pay the permit fee again if you need to renew your learner's permit while waiting to retake the road test.

Timeline: From Permit to License

The timeline depends on your age. If you are 18 or older, the minimum is 30 days from the date you receive your learner's permit to the date you can take the road test. If you are under 18, the minimum is 6 months. In both cases, you cannot take the road test before these waiting periods are over, even if you feel ready.

The written test can be taken on the same day you explore, or you can schedule it for another day. Most DPS offices offer same-day written tests, but some require an appointment. Call your local office to ask about availability.

The road test is scheduled separately and may have a wait, depending on how busy the office is. In some areas, you can schedule the road test weeks in advance; in others, appointments fill up quickly. Schedule your road test as soon as you are may be able to access (after 30 days or 6 months, depending on your age).

Restricted License for Drivers Under 18

A restricted license is available only to drivers under 18 who have held a learner's permit for at least 6 months and passed the road test. It allows you to drive without an adult in the car, but with limitations that a full license does not have.

With a restricted license, you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from work, school, or a medical appointment. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in an emergency. These restrictions stay in place until you turn 18 or until you upgrade to a full license.

To get a restricted license, you take the same road test as anyone else. After you pass, you tell the DPS office that you want a restricted license instead of a full license. You pay the restricted license fee (which is lower than a full license fee). The restricted license is valid for four years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test before I complete driver education if I'm under 18?

No. You must complete a state-approved driver education course and bring proof of completion to the DPS office before you can take the written test. The course includes classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, and the school will give you a certificate when you finish.

What happens if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test as many times as you need. There is no waiting period between attempts. You do not pay the road test fee again; you only pay it once when you pass. Your learner's permit remains valid while you practice and retake the test.

Do I need to renew my learner's permit if I'm waiting to take the road test?

If you hold your learner's permit for longer than its validity period (usually four years), you will need to renew it before you can take the road test. Renewal requires the same documents and fees as a new permit. Most people take the road test before the permit expires, so renewal is uncommon.

Can I drive alone with a learner's permit?

No. With a learner's permit, you must have a licensed driver who is at least 19 years old in the front seat with you at all times. This applies whether you are 16 or 45. The adult must be physically able to exercise control over the vehicle if needed.

What if I move to Alabama from another state?

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need a learner's permit. You can explore directly for an Alabama license by taking the written and road tests. If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to start with a learner's permit and follow the same process as a new driver.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.