What you need to do to get a replacement license in Alabama

To replace a lost Alabama driver's license, you visit your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay the replacement fee, and take a new photo. The process takes about 30 minutes on the day you explore. Your replacement license will have the same number and expiration date as your original, so you don't start over.

You cannot replace your license by mail or online in Alabama. The state requires you to appear in person because you need a new photograph taken. If you've lost your license and need to drive before you can get to a DPS office, you can request a temporary paper permit on the same day, which is valid for 30 days.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit an Alabama DPS office in person with proof of identity and proof of your current address to get a replacement license.
  • The replacement fee is $20.50 for a standard license and $25.50 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and you pay at the time of process.
  • Your replacement license keeps the same number and expiration date as your lost license, so you don't lose time on your renewal cycle.
  • If you need to drive before you can visit a DPS office, you can get a temporary paper permit valid for 30 days on the same day you explore.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.

Documents you need to bring to the DPS office

You need one document that proves your identity and one that proves your current address. For identity, bring your original Social Security card, birth certificate, passport, or military ID. A photocopy is not enough — the DPS office must see the original document or a certified copy issued by the agency that created it.

For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail (such as a tax bill or voter registration card) dated within the last 60 days. A bank statement, insurance bill, or medical bill also works. If you don't have a document in your name, you can bring a bill in a family member's name plus a document showing you live there, such as a notarized statement or a lease with both names.

If you're replacing a REAL ID-compliant license (one marked with a gold star), you'll need the same identity and address documents, plus proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form showing your full number.

Where to go and how long it takes

Find your nearest Alabama DPS Driver License office on the state website at dps.alabama.gov. The office locator shows hours, address, and phone number for each location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some have limited Saturday hours. Call ahead if you're traveling more than 30 minutes, because wait times vary and some offices close for lunch.

The replacement process itself takes about 30 minutes once you're called to a window. However, wait times in the office can range from 15 minutes to two hours depending on the time of day and how busy the office is. Early morning visits, especially on Tuesday through Thursday, tend to have shorter waits than late afternoon or Friday visits.

The replacement fee and what you'll receive

The replacement fee is $20.50 for a standard Alabama driver's license. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (the kind required for federal buildings and domestic flights starting in 2025), the fee is $25.50. You pay this fee at the time you explore, and the DPS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

Your replacement license will be mailed to the address you provide at the DPS office, usually within 7 to 10 business days. On the day you explore, you'll receive a temporary paper permit that's valid for 30 days while you wait for your permanent license to arrive. This temporary permit allows you to drive legally, so you can use it when ready if you need to get on the road.

Getting a temporary permit if you need to drive right away

When you visit the DPS office to explore for your replacement license, ask for a temporary paper permit at the same time. The office will issue it on the spot at no extra charge. This permit is valid for 30 days and serves as proof that you're licensed to drive while your permanent replacement license is being mailed to you.

The temporary permit is a printed document, not a plastic card, so keep it with you when you drive. If you're pulled over, show the officer both the temporary permit and your proof of identity. If your permanent license arrives before the 30 days are up, the temporary permit becomes void and you should destroy it.

If your license was stolen or you suspect fraud

If your license was stolen rather than lost, or if you suspect someone may be using your license number fraudulently, tell the DPS office staff when you explore for the replacement. They will note this in your file. You should also contact the Alabama Attorney General's office or file a report with the Federal Trade Commission at identitytheft.gov if you believe your identity has been compromised.

If your license was stolen and used in a traffic violation or crime, you can request a police report from the jurisdiction where the violation occurred. Bring this report to the DPS office — it may help clear your record if the violation was committed by someone else using your stolen license.

What happens if your replacement license arrives damaged or with errors

If your replacement license arrives in the mail and the photo is blurry, the information is printed incorrectly, or the card is cracked or bent, return to your local DPS office with the damaged license. The office will issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by the DPS. If the damage happened after you received it, you may be charged another replacement fee.

Check your license carefully as soon as it arrives. If your name, date of birth, address, or license number is wrong, contact the DPS office when ready. Errors in your personal information can cause problems when you renew your vehicle registration or explore for other services that require your license number to match state records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license at a county courthouse or sheriff's office?

No. Only Alabama DPS Driver License offices can issue replacement licenses. County courthouses and sheriff's offices do not handle driver's license replacements. You must visit a DPS office listed on the state website.

What if I don't have a Social Security card or birth certificate?

You can bring other original identity documents such as a passport, military ID, or state ID card. If you don't have any of these, contact your local DPS office before you visit — they can tell you what alternative documents they'll accept and how to obtain them.

Do I need to take a new written test or driving test to get a replacement?

No. A replacement license for a lost or stolen license does not require a written test or driving test. You only need to provide proof of identity and address, pay the fee, and have a new photo taken.

How long does it take to get my replacement license in the mail?

Most replacement licenses arrive within 7 to 10 business days of the date you explore. During busy periods or if there are mail delays, it may take up to two weeks. Your temporary paper permit is valid for 30 days, so you have time to receive your permanent license before the temporary one expires.

Can I change my address on my replacement license?

Yes. When you explore for your replacement license, you can provide a new address and it will be printed on your replacement license. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or other document dated within the last 60 days) along with your identity document.