Where to renew and what documents you need
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. The in-person route is the most straightforward: bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address.
Online renewal is faster but only works if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, your vision has not changed, and your name and address are current in the system. You will need your driver's license number and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online process takes about 10 minutes, and your renewed license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, or if you have medical conditions listed on it, you must renew in person. The same applies if you need to change your name, address, or organ donor status—those changes require a visit to a DPS office.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal works only if your current license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions or vision changes.
- In-person renewal at any DPS Driver License Office requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and your Social Security number.
- Licenses expired more than five years require in-person renewal and may require a new vision test or medical evaluation.
- Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after approval; in-person renewal can issue a temporary license the same day.
How long the renewal process takes
Online renewal is the fastest option. Once you submit your information and pay the fee, your renewed license is processed within one business day, and the physical card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. During that time, your old license remains valid.
In-person renewal at a DPS office usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready that you can use to drive while your permanent card is being printed and mailed. The permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Some DPS offices offer walk-in service; others require an appointment. Check the DPS website or call ahead to find out which offices near you accept walk-ins and what their current wait times are.
Renewal fees and what they cover
Alabama charges different fees depending on how long your new license is valid. A standard four-year license costs $28.50. An eight-year license costs $57. You can choose which term you want when you renew, either online or in person. Payment is by credit card, debit card, or check (in person only).
The fee covers the cost of producing and mailing your new license card. It does not include any vision test or medical evaluation, which are free if required. If you renew online, the fee is charged to your card when ready. If you renew in person, you pay when you complete your process.
When your license expires and renewal important date
Your renewal date is printed on the front of your license. Alabama allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires, so you can start the process early if you prefer. If your license has already expired, you can still renew it, but the process is the same whether it expired last month or five years ago—unless it expired more than five years ago, in which case you must renew in person and may need a new vision test.
There is no grace period in Alabama. Once your license expires, it is no longer valid for driving. If you are caught driving on an expired license, you can be cited. Renewing early removes that risk and is straightforward to do online if you meet the conditions.
Vision tests and medical requirements
If you renew online, no vision test is required. The system assumes your vision has not changed since your last license was issued. If you renew in person and your license does not have medical restrictions, a vision test is not automatic—you will only be asked to take one if the DPS officer has reason to believe your vision may have changed.
If your current license lists medical restrictions (such as corrective lenses required, or a condition that affects your ability to drive), you must renew in person. You may be asked to provide a medical report from your doctor or to take a vision test. The DPS office can tell you what documentation you need before your appointment. If you have a medical condition that has worsened or changed, contact your local DPS office before you renew to find out what steps are required.
What to do if your license was lost or stolen
If your license was lost or stolen rather than straightforward expired, you cannot renew it—you must replace it. Replacement is similar to renewal but requires you to report the loss or theft. You can report it to your local DPS office when you explore for the replacement, or you can report it online through the DPS website first. Either way, bring the same documents you would bring for an in-person renewal: proof of residency, your Social Security number, and any identification you have.
The replacement fee is the same as renewal ($28.50 for four years or $57 for eight years). You will receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you reported the loss online before visiting the office, bring that confirmation with you.
Finding a DPS Driver License Office near you
Alabama has DPS Driver License Offices in most counties. The DPS website has a complete list of office locations, hours, and phone numbers. You can search by county or city. Some offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours; others have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check the website to confirm hours before you go, as some offices have reduced hours on certain days.
If you live in a rural area far from an office, online renewal is your best option if your license is not expired. If you must renew in person and travel is difficult, some DPS offices offer mobile services or can direct you to the nearest location. The DPS customer service line can help you find the most convenient office and tell you whether an appointment is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
Yes. There is no time limit on how long ago your license expired—you can renew it whether it expired last month or ten years ago. However, if it expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person and may need a new vision test or medical evaluation.
What if I moved and my address on my license is wrong?
You must renew in person to change your address. Bring your current license and proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). The DPS office will update your address during the renewal process.
Do I need an appointment to renew in person?
It depends on the office. Some DPS Driver License Offices accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Check the DPS website or call your local office to find out. If appointments are required and none are available, ask about the wait list or whether a nearby office has sooner availability.
What if I wear glasses or contacts—do I need a vision test to renew?
Not if you renew online. If you renew in person and your license already shows a restriction for corrective lenses, you may be asked to take a vision test. If your license does not have that restriction and you now need glasses, tell the DPS officer when you renew so they can add the restriction to your new license.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No. You must renew your license yourself, either online or in person. You cannot authorize someone else to do it on your behalf. If you are unable to visit an office due to disability or illness, contact your local DPS office to ask about options.