What you need to do to renew in Alabama
Alabama renews driver's licenses by mail, online, or in person at a Driver License Office. Which method you can use depends on how close you are to your expiration date and whether you've had any major changes since your last license — like a new address or name change.
If your license expires soon and you want the fastest route, online renewal takes a few minutes and you'll have confirmation when ready. Mail renewal takes longer but requires no trip. In-person renewal is necessary if you need a new photo, have a medical condition to report, or are renewing after a long gap.
Your current Alabama driver's license or ID card is the main document you'll need for any method. You'll also need to know your Social Security number and answer security questions about your driving history.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website works if your license expires within the next 60 days and you haven't changed your address or name.
- Mail renewal takes about two weeks and costs less than in-person renewal, but you cannot change your photo or address through the mail.
- In-person renewal at a Driver License Office is required if you need a new photo, have moved, changed your name, or your license has been expired for more than one year.
- Renewal fees in Alabama vary by license type and age, so check the current fee schedule on the ALEA website before you renew.
- You can renew up to one year before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the last moment.
Online renewal through the ALEA website
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) operates the online renewal system. You can renew online if your current license is valid, expires within 60 days, and you have not changed your address or legal name since your last renewal.
Go to the ALEA Driver License Services website, select "Renew License Online," and log in or create an account. You'll answer security questions about your driving record and confirm your personal information. The system will ask you to review and accept the terms, then process your payment by credit or debit card. You'll receive a confirmation number when ready, and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Online renewal costs less than in-person renewal. If you cannot renew online because your license expires more than 60 days away, you can still renew by mail or wait until you're within the 60-day window.
Mail renewal and what it covers
Mail renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have not changed your address or name. You do not need to visit an office, and the process is straightforward: request a renewal form from ALEA, fill it out, include payment, and mail it back.
You can request the form by calling the ALEA Driver License Section at 334-242-4437 or by visiting a Driver License Office in person to pick one up. Fill out the form completely, sign it, and mail it with a check or money order to the address on the form. Processing takes about two weeks from the date ALEA receives your envelope.
Mail renewal does not include a new photo — your current photo will be used on your new license. If you need to change your address, update your name, or get a new photo, you must renew in person.
In-person renewal at a Driver License Office
Visit a Driver License Office if your license has expired, you've moved to a new address, changed your legal name, need a new photo, or have a medical condition to report. You can also renew in person if you prefer, even if you're not required to.
Bring your current Alabama driver's license or ID card, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address if you've moved (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If you've changed your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change — marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
Wait times at Driver License Offices vary by location and time of day. Many offices are busier in the morning and on weekdays. You can check current wait times on the ALEA website before you go. In-person renewal is completed on the spot, and you'll receive a temporary license to use while your permanent one is mailed to you.
Fees and what affects the cost
Renewal fees depend on your age, the type of license you hold, and whether you're renewing in person or by mail. A standard four-year renewal for an adult costs less than an eight-year renewal. Commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) cost more than regular licenses.
Online and mail renewal typically cost less than in-person renewal because you're not using office resources. The exact fee is listed on the ALEA website and will be shown before you complete your transaction online or on the mail form. Payment methods vary by renewal type: online accepts credit and debit cards, while mail renewal requires check or money order.
If you're renewing in person, bring cash, check, or debit card — not all offices accept credit cards. Call ahead to confirm payment methods at your specific location.
When your license is expired or long overdue
If your license has been expired for less than one year, you may still be able to renew by mail or online, depending on whether you've changed your address or name. Check the ALEA website or call 334-242-4437 to confirm your options.
If your license expired more than one year ago, you must renew in person. You'll need to bring all the documents listed above, including proof of your Social Security number and current address. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Alabama, so renew as soon as you can.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward renew it — you must contact ALEA or the court that issued the suspension to understand what steps are required before you can drive legally again.
Finding a Driver License Office near you
Alabama has Driver License Offices in most counties. The ALEA website has a searchable list of all office locations, hours, and phone numbers. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have extended hours or Saturday appointments.
If you live far from an office or have limited transportation, mail renewal or online renewal may be your best option. If you must visit in person, calling ahead to confirm hours and current wait times will save you a trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Alabama license if I've moved out of state?
No. If you've moved out of Alabama, you must obtain a driver's license from your new state. You cannot renew an Alabama license once you've established residency elsewhere. Contact your new state's motor vehicle department to begin the process there.
What happens if I drive with an expired license?
Driving with an expired license is a traffic violation in Alabama. You can be stopped, cited, and fined. If your license expired recently, you may have a grace period depending on the officer's discretion, but it's best to renew before the expiration date to avoid any legal issues.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
Online and mail renewals typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days after ALEA processes your request. In-person renewal is faster — you receive a temporary license when ready and your permanent license arrives within the same timeframe. Processing times may be longer during peak renewal periods.
Can I renew my license early?
Yes. Alabama allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. Renewing early can be helpful if you're planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. Your new license will have a new expiration date based on when you renew.
What if I need to change my photo but don't want to visit an office?
You must renew in person at a Driver License Office to get a new photo. Online and mail renewal use your existing photo. If a new photo is important to you, schedule an in-person appointment or visit during a less busy time to minimize wait time.