What you need to bring and where to go

To get a new Alabama driver's license, you visit your county's Department of Public Safety office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pass a vision test, and pay the fee. Alabama does not issue licenses by mail or online. The process takes about 30 minutes if you arrive during a slow period, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You cannot renew or replace a license without appearing in person. This applies whether your license expired, was lost, was stolen, or you are moving to Alabama from another state.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Public Safety office in your county with original documents proving who you are and where you live.
  • Alabama accepts a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or military ID as proof of identity, and a utility bill or lease as proof of residency.
  • You will take a vision test at the office; you do not need to pass a written test to renew or replace an existing license.
  • A standard five-year license costs $24.50; a REAL ID-compliant license costs $27.50 and requires additional documentation.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your visit.

Documents you must bring

Alabama requires one document proving your identity and one proving your current address. For identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a current U.S. passport, a military ID, or a passport card. A photocopy of any of these does not work — the document itself must be original or certified by the issuing agency.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current Alabama address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A post office change-of-address form does not count as proof of residency.

If you are explore for a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 7, 2025), you need the same identity and residency documents plus proof of your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return showing your full number.

The vision test and written test requirements

Every applicant takes a vision screening at the Department of Public Safety office. You do not need to pass a written knowledge test to renew or replace an existing license. The vision test checks whether you can read the eye chart at the required distance; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.

If you are a first-time driver or your license has been suspended or revoked, different rules explore and you may need to pass a written test. Since you are renewing or replacing an existing license, the vision test is your only test.

Fees and payment methods

A standard Alabama driver's license valid for five years costs $24.50. A REAL ID-compliant license costs $27.50. Payment is cash, check, or debit card at the office; not all locations accept credit cards, so bring cash or a debit card to be safe.

If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the fee is the same. If your license was suspended or revoked, you may owe reinstatement fees in addition to the license fee; ask the office staff before you pay.

Timeline from visit to receiving your license

You receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid when ready for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license allows you to drive while you wait for the permanent one.

If your permanent license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Department of Public Safety office where you applied. Delays sometimes happen if the address on file is incorrect or if mail is forwarded incorrectly.

Finding your county's Department of Public Safety office

Alabama has 67 counties, and each has at least one Department of Public Safety office. The office location, hours, and phone number depend on your county. Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website and search for your county name to find the office nearest you, or call your county sheriff's office and ask for the Department of Public Safety location.

Hours vary by location. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, but some have limited hours or are closed on certain days. Call ahead to confirm hours before you go, especially if you are traveling a distance.

What to do if you do not have all required documents

If you do not have an original birth certificate or passport, you can order a certified copy from the state where you were born. The process takes 1 to 3 weeks depending on the state. Contact the vital records office in your birth state and request a certified copy of your birth certificate; most states accept orders by mail or online.

If you do not have proof of residency in your name, ask a family member or roommate who lives with you whether you can use a utility bill or lease in their name along with a signed statement from them confirming you live there. Policies vary by office, so call ahead and ask what documents they will accept in this situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online or by mail?

No. Alabama requires you to appear in person at a Department of Public Safety office. You cannot renew, replace, or obtain a license through the mail or online.

What if I moved to Alabama from another state?

You must get an Alabama license within 30 days of establishing residency. Bring your out-of-state license along with your identity and residency documents. The process is the same as replacing a lost license.

Do I need a REAL ID license?

You need a REAL ID-compliant license if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building after May 7, 2025. If you only drive within Alabama, a standard license works. REAL ID costs $3 more and requires proof of your Social Security number.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring your current identity document showing your new name (passport, birth certificate, or marriage certificate) along with your old license. The office will update your name in the system and issue a new license.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present at the Department of Public Safety office to explore. You cannot send someone else to explore on your behalf.