What You Need to Do to Get an Alabama Driver's License
To get a driver's license in Alabama, you must visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The entire process typically takes several weeks from start to finish, though you can drive with a learner's permit while you wait for your license to arrive by mail.
Alabama issues licenses valid for eight years for drivers under 65, and four years for drivers 65 and older. The state does not mail licenses when ready — after you pass your tests, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while the physical card is produced and mailed to your address.
Key Takeaways
- You must pass both a written knowledge test and a behind-the-wheel driving test at a DPS office; you cannot test online or by mail.
- Bring original documents proving your identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), current address (utility bill or lease), and Social Security number (card or tax document).
- A learner's permit costs around $20 and lets you drive with a licensed adult while you study for the written test; the full license fee is approximately $30.
- The written test covers Alabama traffic laws and road signs; the driving test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control and safety.
- Your physical license arrives by mail within two to four weeks; the temporary paper license is valid during that time.
Documents You Must Bring to the DPS Office
Alabama requires original documents — photocopies are not accepted. You need one document proving your identity, one proving your current address, and proof of your Social Security number. A passport or military ID satisfies the identity requirement. If you don't have either, a birth certificate or state ID from another state works, though you may need to bring additional documents if the DPS examiner has questions about your identity.
For proof of address, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement showing your name and current Alabama address. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of address. If you're homeless or don't have mail in your name, ask the DPS office what alternative documents they accept — some offices will work with you on a case-by-case basis.
For your Social Security number, bring your actual Social Security card, a tax return, a W-2, or a 1099 form. If you don't have a Social Security number, you'll need to contact the Social Security Administration before visiting DPS.
Getting a Learner's Permit First
Most people start with a learner's permit, which costs around $20 and is valid for one year. To get a learner's permit, you pass only the written test — no driving test required. You can then practice driving with a licensed adult (at least 19 years old) in the passenger seat before you take the driving test for your full license.
With a learner's permit, you can drive during daylight hours and must follow all traffic laws. Some restrictions vary by age — drivers under 18 have stricter rules, including limits on when they can drive and who can ride with them. Check the current restrictions on the Alabama DPS website before you start driving.
You don't have to get a learner's permit if you already hold a valid driver's license from another state, but Alabama still requires you to pass the written and driving tests to convert it to an Alabama license.
Passing the Written Test
The written test covers Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the DPS office. You must score at least 80 percent to pass. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Alabama provides a free study guide on the DPS website that covers all the material on the test. The guide includes sample questions and explanations. Most people study the guide for a few days or a week before taking the test. You can take the test as many times as you need — there's no limit on retakes, though you'll pay the test fee each time.
The written test is offered in English only. If you need the test in another language, contact your local DPS office to ask about options.
Scheduling and Taking the Driving Test
After you pass the written test, you schedule a driving test at the same DPS office. Wait times vary by location — some offices have openings within a week, while others may have a wait of several weeks. You can call ahead to ask about current wait times for your nearest office.
For the driving test, bring your learner's permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that's in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the vehicle has working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. The test lasts about 20 minutes and includes basic maneuvers like parking, turning, and stopping. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or hitting a curb will result in failure.
If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days or a week. There's no limit on how many times you can retake it, though you'll pay the test fee each time.
Finding a DPS Driver License Office Near You
Alabama has DPS driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Alabama DPS website. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours. A few offices operate by appointment only, so call ahead before you go.
Offices in larger cities tend to have shorter wait times than rural offices. If your local office has a long wait, you may be able to visit an office in a nearby county instead — you don't have to use the office in your home county.
What Happens After You Pass Your Tests
After you pass both the written and driving tests, the DPS office issues you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This temporary license lets you drive legally while your physical card is being produced. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to four weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.
Check the address on your temporary license to make sure it's correct. If it's wrong, tell the DPS examiner before you leave the office — they can correct it on the spot. If you move before your license arrives, contact the DPS to update your address so the license is mailed to the right place.
Once your physical license arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid. Keep your license in a safe place — if it's lost or stolen, you'll need to visit a DPS office again to get a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a driver's license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Alabama issues driver's licenses to non-citizens who have a valid visa or work permit. You'll need to bring your passport and visa or work permit along with the other required documents. If you're undocumented, you cannot get a standard driver's license, but Alabama does not offer a special license for undocumented immigrants.
What if I fail the driving test?
You can retake it as many times as you need. Most offices let you schedule another test within a few days. You'll pay the test fee each time you retake it. There's no limit on retakes, so take your time and practice more before your next attempt.
How much does an Alabama driver's license cost?
A learner's permit costs around $20, and a full driver's license costs approximately $30. Fees may vary slightly by county. If you're converting a license from another state, the fee is similar. Ask your local DPS office about the exact cost before you visit.
Can I renew my license by mail or online?
No. Alabama requires you to renew your license in person at a DPS office. You'll need to pass a new written test and a new driving test when you renew. You cannot renew online or by mail.
What if I lose my license after I get it?
Visit a DPS office and request a replacement. You'll pay a replacement fee (usually around $20) and receive a temporary paper license while your new physical license is mailed to you. You don't have to retake the written or driving test for a replacement.