What You Need to Do Right Now

To replace a lost driver's license in Alabama, you must visit an Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The replacement license costs $20.50 and takes about 10 minutes to issue if you have all required documents. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you should also report it to local law enforcement and request a report number. Some DPS offices ask to see this report, though it is not always required. Having the report protects you if someone uses your license number for fraud.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at a DPS Driver License office with a valid ID and proof of your current Alabama address.
  • The replacement fee is $20.50, and your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report and bring the report number to the DPS office.
  • Bring your Social Security number or a document that shows it, such as a birth certificate or tax return.
  • DPS offices do not require an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Alabama requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residency. You must bring at least one document from each category.

Proof of identity can be a valid passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, a state ID card, or a school or work ID with a photo. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be an official certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp. A photocopy will not work.

Proof of residency must show your current Alabama address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a property tax bill, or a government-issued document with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of residency.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it. If you do not have your Social Security card, bring a birth certificate, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return.

Where to Find a DPS Driver License Office Near You

Alabama has 49 DPS Driver License offices across the state. The main office is located in Montgomery at 301 South Ripley Street. To find the office nearest you, visit the Alabama DPS website and use their office locator tool, or call 334-242-4437.

Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some locations closing for lunch between noon and 1:00 p.m. A few offices have extended hours or Saturday hours. Check the specific office location before you go.

No appointment is required, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour during peak times, especially mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon usually means shorter waits.

What Happens When You Arrive at the Office

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and receive a number. You will then wait to be called to a window. A DPS employee will review your documents, take a new photo for your license, and collect the $20.50 fee. Payment is cash or check only at most offices; call ahead to confirm if your location accepts cards.

The employee will ask you to verify your address and confirm that your signature is correct. If you want to change your signature from your previous license, you can do so at this time. You will also be asked whether you want to register as an organ donor.

Once the transaction is complete, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address on file. If you move before your license arrives, contact the DPS to update your address so the license is sent to the correct location.

If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, file a report with your local police department or sheriff's office. Provide them with your license number if you know it, your date of birth, and the date you discovered the theft. Request a report number and keep it for your records.

Bring the police report number to the DPS office when you replace your license. This documents that the license was stolen and protects you if someone attempts to use your license number fraudulently. If you do not have a report number, the DPS will still replace your license, but having the report creates an official record.

Consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if you are concerned about identity theft. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

Fees and Payment Methods

The replacement fee for a lost or stolen driver's license in Alabama is $20.50. This is a one-time fee for the replacement license itself. If you also want to change your address, add an organ donor designation, or update your name, there are no additional fees for these changes when done at the same time as your replacement.

Most DPS offices accept cash and checks. Some locations may accept debit or credit cards, but this varies. Call the office you plan to visit to confirm what payment methods they accept. If you cannot pay at the time of your visit, you cannot receive your replacement license that day.

What to Do If You Cannot Visit an Office in Person

Alabama does not allow mail-in or online replacement of a lost license. You must appear in person at a DPS Driver License office. If you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or disability, contact the DPS at 334-242-4437 to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to information you at a different location or provide guidance on your options.

If you are out of state temporarily, you can still replace your license when you return to Alabama. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days, which gives you time to travel back and visit an office. If you have moved out of Alabama permanently, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get my replacement license?

The replacement process at the office takes about 10 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DPS at 334-242-4437.

Can I use my temporary paper license to drive?

Yes. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving and identification. Keep it with you until your permanent license arrives. Once your permanent license arrives, destroy the temporary one.

What if I moved and my address on file is wrong?

Tell the DPS employee at the office that your address has changed. They will update your address in the system and mail your replacement license to your new address. Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill dated within the last 60 days.

Do I need to take a written test or driving test to replace my lost license?

No. Replacing a lost or stolen license does not require a written test, vision test, or driving test. You only need to provide your documents and pay the fee. A new photo will be taken for your replacement license.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You can replace your Alabama license by visiting any DPS Driver License office in Alabama when you return. If you are now living in another state, you should obtain a driver's license from that state instead. Contact that state's DMV for their replacement process.