What you need to get an Alabama driver's license

Alabama issues driver's licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS), and you'll need to visit a driver's license office in person to explore. You cannot complete the entire process online or by mail — you must show up with physical documents and pass a vision and written test.

Before you go, gather these documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of Alabama residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days), your Social Security number, and proof of a name change if applicable (marriage certificate or court order). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

You'll also need to pass a vision screening at the office and a written knowledge test covering Alabama traffic laws. The written test has 30 questions, and you need 24 correct to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back later.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS driver's license office in person with proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number.
  • Alabama requires you to pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test (30 questions, 24 needed to pass) at the office.
  • Standard licenses are valid for eight years; you can renew online if you have no medical conditions and your address hasn't changed.
  • The fee for a new license is $28.50; renewal by mail or online costs $28.50 and takes about two weeks.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at no extra charge.

Finding a DPS office near you and what to expect

Alabama has driver's license offices in most counties. You can find the nearest one by visiting the Department of Public Safety website and searching by county, or by calling the main DPS office at 334-242-4400. Some offices are busier than others — rural offices often have shorter wait times than those in Birmingham, Montgomery, or Mobile.

Bring all your documents in originals (not copies, except for the residency proof). The process takes 30 to 60 minutes on average, though it varies by office traffic. You'll have your photo taken, your vision will be checked, and you'll sit for the written test at a computer terminal. If you pass everything, you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot, and your plastic card will arrive by mail within two weeks.

Renewing your Alabama license by mail or online

If your license is still valid and you have no medical conditions that restrict your driving, you can renew it without visiting an office. Online renewal is the fastest option: go to the DPS website, log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, and pay the $28.50 fee. Your new license will arrive in about two weeks.

Mail renewal takes longer but requires no internet access. Request a renewal form from any DPS office or read it from the website, fill it out, and mail it with your fee and a new photo (4x6 inches, color, taken within the last 30 days). Processing takes three to four weeks from the date DPS receives it. You cannot renew by mail if your address has changed or if you have medical restrictions on your license.

License validity, fees, and what happens if yours expires

A standard Alabama driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. The fee for a new license is $28.50. If you renew online or by mail, the cost is the same. There is no extra charge to retake the written test on the same day if you fail.

If your license expires, you can still drive legally for 30 days after the expiration date. After that, driving with an expired license is a violation. If you're pulled over, you may receive a citation. Renewing is straightforward — just follow the online or mail process above — but do not wait until after the 30-day grace period ends.

Getting a Real ID-compliant Alabama license

A Real ID is a federal standard that allows you to use your driver's license as identification for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. Alabama began issuing Real ID licenses in 2009, and most new licenses issued now meet the standard by default.

When you explore for a new license or renew, ask the DPS office staff whether your license will be Real ID-compliant. If it is, your card will have a gold star in the upper right corner. If you need to fly domestically or enter a federal facility and your license does not have the star, you'll need a passport or another federally accepted ID instead. There is no extra fee for a Real ID license.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you must explore for a replacement in person at a DPS office. Bring the same documents you would for a new license: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. The fee is $28.50, the same as a new license.

If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to local police for your records, though it is not required to get a replacement. Once you receive your replacement, the old license is no longer valid. If you later find the original, do not use it — destroy it or return it to DPS.

Changing your name or address on your Alabama license

If you change your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you must update your license. Bring your original license, proof of the name change (marriage certificate or court order), and visit a DPS office. The fee is $28.50. You'll receive a new license with your updated name within two weeks.

If you move within Alabama, you can update your address online through the DPS website at no cost — you do not need a new license. If you move out of state, you'll need to get a license in your new state. If you move to Alabama from another state, you must get an Alabama license within 30 days of establishing residency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online before going to the DPS office?

No. Alabama requires you to take the written test in person at a DPS office on the day you explore. You can study the test material on the DPS website beforehand, but the actual test must be completed at the office with a staff member present.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at no extra charge. Most offices allow you to study for a few minutes and then sit for the test again. If you fail a second time, you may need to come back another day, but policies vary by office.

Do I need an appointment to visit a DPS driver's license office?

Appointments are not required, but some offices accept them to reduce wait times. Check the DPS website or call ahead to see if your local office offers appointments. Walk-ins are always accepted.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the test?

You receive a temporary paper license when ready after passing. Your plastic card arrives by mail within two weeks. If it takes longer, contact DPS to check the status.

Can I renew my license if I wear glasses or contacts?

Yes. The vision test at the DPS office will check your vision with or without correction. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. Your license will note any vision correction requirement.