You can renew your Alabama driver's license online if your license is still valid and you meet a few basic requirements
Alabama's online renewal system lets you renew your driver's license without visiting an office, as long as your current license hasn't expired more than five years ago and you don't need to change your address, name, or other personal information. The process takes about 10 minutes, costs $28.50, and you'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Not every renewal can happen online. If your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to update your address or legal name, if you're renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL), or if you have certain medical conditions that require in-person review, you'll need to visit an Alabama Department of Public Safety office instead.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your current license expired within the last five years and your personal information hasn't changed.
- The fee is $28.50, paid by credit or debit card during the online process.
- You'll need your current Alabama driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to start.
- Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving with your current license until it arrives.
- If you can't renew online, you must visit a Department of Public Safety office with required documents.
What you need before you start the online renewal
Have your current Alabama driver's license in front of you. You'll enter your license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will pull up your existing record and confirm that you're may be able to access to renew online.
You'll also need a valid credit or debit card to pay the $28.50 renewal fee. Alabama does not accept checks, money orders, or cash for online renewals. The payment is processed when ready, and you'll receive a confirmation number on screen.
Step-by-step process for renewing online
Go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and look for the driver's license renewal section. You'll find a link to the online renewal system. Click it and select "Renew Your License" from the menu.
Enter your current license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will search for your record. If it finds you and confirms you're may be able to access, it will display your current information on screen. Review it carefully to make sure everything is correct—address, name, date of birth, and any restrictions or endorsements.
If all your information is correct, proceed to the payment screen. Enter your credit or debit card details and complete the transaction. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready. Write this down or take a screenshot; you may need it if you have questions about your renewal.
After payment, the system will tell you when to expect your new license. You can continue driving with your current license until the new one arrives.
When you cannot renew online and must visit an office
If your license expired more than five years ago, the online system will reject your renewal request. You must visit a Department of Public Safety office in person with your expired license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form).
Address or name changes also require an in-person visit. If you've moved or legally changed your name since your last license was issued, bring your current license, proof of your new address, and a certified copy of any legal name change document (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will update your record and issue a new license on the spot or by mail, depending on the type of change.
Commercial driver's license (CDL) renewals cannot be done online under any circumstances. CDL holders must visit an office with their current CDL, medical certification form (MCSA-5876), and proof of residency.
What happens after you submit your online renewal
Your renewal request goes into the Department of Public Safety's processing queue. You'll receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The new license will be valid for eight years from the date it's issued (or until age 65 if you're over 57).
During the waiting period, your current license remains valid for driving. You don't need to carry any confirmation documents with you—your old license is enough. If you're stopped by law enforcement, show your current license; they can verify that a renewal is pending.
If you don't receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number. They can check the status of your renewal and investigate any delays.
Fees and payment details
The online renewal fee is $28.50. This covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license. Alabama does not charge extra for online renewal compared to in-person renewal—the fee is the same either way.
Payment must be made by credit card or debit card during the online process. Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover are accepted. The charge will appear on your statement under the Alabama Department of Public Safety. There are no refunds if you change your mind after payment, so review your information carefully before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license is suspended or revoked?
No. The online system checks your driving record and will reject your renewal if there are any suspensions, revocations, or holds on your license. You must resolve the suspension or revocation through the Department of Public Safety before you can renew. Contact them directly to find out what steps are required.
What if I made a mistake when I submitted my online renewal?
Once payment is processed, you cannot cancel or change your online renewal. If you entered incorrect information, contact the Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number as soon as possible. They may be able to correct it before your new license is printed, but this is not may provide. In-person correction at an office is more reliable.
Do I need to take a new photo for online renewal?
No. Online renewal uses the photo from your current license. Your new license will have the same photo unless you visit an office in person and request a new one.
Can I renew online if I'm out of state?
Yes. The online renewal system is available to anyone with a valid Alabama driver's license, regardless of where you live. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file with the Department of Public Safety.
What if my address changed but I still want to renew online?
You cannot change your address through the online renewal system. You must visit a Department of Public Safety office in person with proof of your new address. They will update your record and issue a new license with the correct address.