Where to renew and what you need to bring
You can renew your Alabama driver's license in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License Office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes. Online renewal, when available to you, can be completed from home and costs less.
To renew in person, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current Alabama address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
For online renewal, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method. You won't need to visit an office, but you will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Key Takeaways
- Alabama allows online renewal if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not changed your name or address since your last renewal.
- In-person renewal at a DPS office requires your current license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
- Online renewal costs $20.25 and takes 7 to 10 business days by mail; in-person renewal costs $24.50 and you receive your license when ready.
- If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and may need to retake the written test and vision screening.
When your license expires and renewal windows
Your Alabama driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. The expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can begin the renewal process up to 90 days before your license expires, and you can renew it up to five years after it expires.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it—you must reapply as a new driver. This means taking the written knowledge test, the vision screening, and the road test. Contact your local DPS office for the steps to reapply.
Online renewal: who can use it and how
You are not may be able to access for online renewal if any of the following explore: your license is already expired, you have medical restrictions or endorsements on your license, your name or address has changed since your last renewal, or you are renewing for the first time. If any of these conditions fit you, you must renew in person.
To renew online, visit the Alabama DPS website and select the online renewal option. You will enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your information and ask you to review your current license details. If everything is correct, you'll pay the $20.25 renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
In-person renewal at a DPS office
To renew in person, find your nearest DPS Driver License Office on the Alabama DPS website or call 334-242-4437. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait.
Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. If you have changed your name, bring the certified document proving the change. The staff will take a new photo, verify your information, and issue your renewed license on the spot. The cost is $24.50. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening unless your license has been expired for more than five years.
Cost and payment methods
Online renewal costs $20.25 and can be paid by credit card or debit card only. In-person renewal costs $24.50 and can be paid by cash, check, credit card, or debit card. Some offices may accept other payment methods, so call ahead if you have questions.
If you are renewing a license that expired more than five years ago and must reapply as a new driver, the cost is higher and includes fees for the knowledge test, vision screening, and road test. Contact your local DPS office for the exact total.
What to do if your license is lost or stolen
If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot use the online renewal process. You must visit a DPS office in person to report it and receive a replacement. Bring proof of your identity (such as a passport or birth certificate), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The replacement fee is $20. You will receive your new license when ready.
If you suspect your license was stolen and used fraudulently, report it to the DPS and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus. The DPS can help you file a report.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it is already expired?
You can renew online only if your license is not yet expired. If it is expired, you must renew in person at a DPS office. If it has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew—you must reapply as a new driver, which includes retaking the written test and vision screening.
How long does it take to get my renewed license?
If you renew in person, you receive your new license when ready. If you renew online, your license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. Plan ahead if your current license is expiring soon.
Do I need to retake the written test or vision screening to renew?
No, unless your license has been expired for more than five years. In that case, you must reapply as a new driver and take both tests. For standard renewal, the DPS will verify your vision during the in-person process but will not require a formal test.
What if my address has changed since my last license?
You cannot renew online if your address has changed. You must renew in person at a DPS office and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days. The DPS will update your address and issue your new license.
Can I renew my license by mail?
No. Alabama does not offer mail-in renewal. You can renew online (and receive your license by mail) or in person at a DPS office. Online renewal is the closest option to a mail-based process.