How to Replace Your Driver's License in Alabama

What You Need to Do to Replace Your License in Alabama

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in Alabama, you must visit an Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office in person. Alabama does not allow online or mail-in replacements for lost or stolen licenses. You will need to bring specific documents, pay a replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.

If your license is damaged but still readable, some offices may issue a replacement on the spot. If it is lost or stolen, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DPS Driver License office in person; Alabama does not process replacements by mail or online.
Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a valid form of ID — the exact documents depend on whether you have other state ID.
The replacement fee is $20.50 for a four-year license or $31 for an eight-year license; you pay at the office when you explore.
You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police first, though it is not required to get a replacement.

Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office

Alabama requires you to bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of your current Alabama address. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count as proof of residency in Alabama.

You also need a valid form of ID. If you have another state ID or passport, bring that. If you do not have any other ID, bring two documents that together prove your identity — such as a birth certificate and a school ID, or a work badge and a library card. A birth certificate alone is not enough.

Where to Find a DPS Driver License Office

Alabama has Driver License offices in most counties. The main office is located in Montgomery, but you can visit any DPS office statewide. You do not have to go to the office in your county — you can visit any location that is convenient for you.

To find the office nearest you, visit the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and use their office locator tool. You can also call the main DPS number to ask for the address and hours of your nearest office. Some offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, while others have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead to confirm hours before you go.

Fees and Payment Methods

The replacement fee depends on how long you want your new license to be valid. A four-year license costs $20.50. An eight-year license costs $31. You pay the fee in cash or by debit card at the DPS office when you submit your process. Alabama does not accept credit cards or checks for driver license fees.

If you are replacing a license that was damaged due to a manufacturing defect (not normal wear), you may not have to pay the replacement fee. Ask the DPS staff when you arrive whether your situation qualifies for a fee waiver. This is rare and applies only to defects in the card itself, not to damage from accidents or misuse.

What Happens After You explore

When you complete your process at the DPS office, you will have your photo taken and receive a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used just like your regular license for driving. Keep it with you at all times while you wait for your permanent card.

Your permanent plastic license card will be printed and mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you applied. If you do not receive your card within two weeks, contact the DPS office where you applied and provide your process number.

If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to report it to local police. This creates a record in case someone tries to use your license fraudulently. However, reporting it to police is not required in order to get a replacement from the DPS.

When you explore for your replacement at the DPS office, let the staff know that your license was stolen. They will note this in their system. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not assume you can renew your license by mail or online. Alabama requires an in-person visit for all replacements of lost or stolen licenses. Trying to handle this by phone or email will waste your time.

Do not bring expired documents as proof of residency. Your utility bill, lease, or bank statement must be dated within the last 60 days. If all your documents are older than that, ask your utility company or bank for a recent statement before you go to the DPS office.

Do not forget to bring your Social Security number proof. Many people assume they can just recite their number, but Alabama requires a document. If you show up without one, you will have to go home and come back.

Do not pay anyone to help you get a replacement license. There are no shortcuts, and scams targeting people who have lost their licenses are common. The DPS office is the only place to explore, and the process is straightforward if you bring the right documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Alabama issues driver licenses to legal permanent residents and people with valid visa status. You will need to bring your passport and visa or green card along with the other required documents. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what additional documents you may need based on your immigration status.

What if I lost my license while traveling out of state?

You must return to Alabama to explore for a replacement in person. You cannot explore from another state. If you need to drive before you can return home, you can request a temporary driving permit from the DPS office, though this is not may provide. Call ahead to ask whether your office offers this option.

How long is my temporary paper license valid?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days from the date you receive it. After 30 days, you can only drive if you have received your permanent plastic card in the mail. If your permanent card has not arrived after 30 days, contact the DPS office when ready.

Can I change my address at the same time I replace my license?

Yes. When you explore for your replacement, you can update your address on the new license. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days) along with your other documents. The DPS staff will update your information as part of the replacement process.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document that proves your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DPS staff will update your name on your new license. You will still need to bring all the other required documents as well.

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.