You can renew your Alabama driver's license online if your license is still valid or expired less than five years ago
Alabama's online renewal system lets you skip the visit to the Department of Public Safety office for most renewals. You'll need a valid email address, your current license number, and a payment method. The process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Not every renewal qualifies for online processing. If your license has been expired for more than five years, if you need to change your address, or if you're renewing a commercial driver's license, you'll need to visit an office in person. The same applies if your name has changed since your last license was issued.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your license expired within the last five years and you're not changing your address or name.
- You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card during the online process, with no additional fees for using the system.
- Your new license is mailed to the address on file, so update your address in person or by mail before renewing online if you've moved.
- The entire process happens on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website, with no third-party service involved.
- If you can't renew online, you'll need to visit a local DPS office with your current license and proof of residency.
What you need before you start
Gather these items before you go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website to begin renewal:
- Your current Alabama driver's license number
- A valid email address where you can receive confirmation
- A credit or debit card for the renewal fee
- Your Social Security number
Your address on file must be current. If you've moved since your last license was issued, you cannot complete the renewal online. Instead, you'll need to visit a DPS office in person with proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement dated within the last 60 days.
The online renewal process, step by step
Go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and look for the driver's license renewal section. You'll enter your license number and other identifying information to confirm your record. The system will verify that you're may be able to access to renew online — if you're not, it will tell you at this point and direct you to schedule an office visit instead.
If you pass the may be able to access check, you'll review your current information and confirm it's correct. This is your final note to catch errors before your new license is printed. You cannot change your address online, so if anything is wrong, stop and contact the DPS office by phone or visit in person.
Next, you'll enter your payment information. Alabama charges a renewal fee that varies depending on how long your new license is valid for — typically $25 for a four-year renewal or $32.50 for an eight-year renewal. The system accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. After payment processes, you'll receive a confirmation number by email.
Your new license will be mailed to the address currently on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives, even if it's expired, as long as you have the confirmation email showing you've renewed.
When you cannot renew online
If your license expired more than five years ago, the online system will reject your renewal. You'll need to visit a DPS office in person and bring your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return).
Address changes also require an in-person visit. If you've moved since your last license was issued, you cannot use the online system. Visit your nearest DPS office with your current license and a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days — a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement all work.
Commercial driver's license renewals and name changes must also be handled in person. If you've married, divorced, or legally changed your name, bring the appropriate documentation (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order) along with your current license to an office visit.
What happens after you renew online
Your confirmation email serves as proof that you've renewed until your new license arrives. Keep this email accessible — you may need to show it if you're stopped by law enforcement. Your old license remains valid for driving purposes during the mailing period.
If your new license doesn't arrive within 14 business days, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Have your confirmation number ready. The office can check the status of your license and reissue it if there was a mailing problem.
Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one. You don't need to return it to the DPS office. The new license is valid when ready upon receipt, even if the old one hasn't technically expired yet.
Renewing in person if online doesn't work for you
If you don't may have access to for online renewal, you'll visit a DPS office in your county. Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement from the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or a document proving it. Office wait times vary by location and time of day — calling ahead can give you an idea of how busy your local office is.
The in-person renewal takes about 15 to 20 minutes once you're called. You'll have your photo taken and can choose your license design. Your new license is mailed to you the same way as an online renewal, arriving in 7 to 10 business days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew online if my license is currently suspended or revoked?
No. The online system will reject your renewal if there are any holds or suspensions on your license. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the DPS before you can renew. Contact your local DPS office to find out what's required to clear the hold.
What if I don't receive my new license after 14 days?
Contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number. They can verify the mailing status and reissue your license if needed. Have your confirmation email ready when you call.
Do I need to take a new photo for an online renewal?
No. Online renewal uses your photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DPS office.
Can I renew online if my name has changed since my last license?
No. Name changes require an in-person visit with documentation of the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Visit your nearest DPS office with your current license and the appropriate paperwork.
Is there a fee for renewing online versus in person?
No. The renewal fee is the same whether you renew online or in person. You pay by card during the online process, or by cash, check, or card at the office if you renew in person.