What Alabama requires for a driver's license
Alabama's Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues driver's licenses through its Driver License Division. To get a license, you must be at least 16 years old, pass a written knowledge test, pass a vision screening, and pass a driving skills test. You also need to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Alabama residency with specific documents.
The state issues three types of licenses: a regular Class D license for standard vehicles, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) for trucks and buses, and a Motorcycle Endorsement. Most people start with the Class D. You can renew by mail, online, or in person, depending on your situation and how much time is left on your current license.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DPS Driver License office in person for your first license or if your license has been expired for more than five years.
- Alabama accepts a birth certificate, passport, or state ID as proof of identity, and a utility bill or lease as proof of residency.
- The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the free Alabama Driver's Manual online.
- Renewal by mail or online is available only if your license expired within the last five years and you have no medical or legal restrictions.
- A standard Class D license costs around $25 and is valid for eight years; costs vary slightly for different license types.
Documents you need to bring to the DPS office
Alabama requires you to bring original or certified copies of documents that prove three things: who you are, your Social Security number, and that you live in Alabama. For identity, bring one of these: a U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a state ID, a military ID, or a tribal ID. A photocopy is not acceptable — the document must be original.
For your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form. For Alabama residency, bring a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government check dated within the last 60 days. Your name on the residency document must match the name on your identity document, or you will need to bring a marriage certificate or court order showing the name change.
If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign your process in person at the DPS office. Bring their ID as well.
How to pass the written knowledge test
The written test has 50 multiple-choice questions about Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 40 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the DPS office, and you can take it the same day you bring your documents.
Alabama publishes the free Driver's Manual online on the DPS website. The manual covers everything on the test: speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, lane changes, what different road signs mean, and what to do if you are stopped by police. You can read it on a screen or print it. Many people study the manual for a few days before taking the test. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no extra cost.
Vision screening and the driving skills test
At the DPS office, you will take a vision screening that checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision screening, you may be sent to an eye doctor for a full exam, or you may be issued a license with a restriction that you must wear corrective lenses while driving.
After you pass the written test and vision screening, you will take the driving skills test with a DPS examiner. You will drive your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the DPS office. The examiner watches you perform basic tasks: starting the car, steering, braking, turning, parking, and backing up. They also check that you follow traffic laws and road signs. If you fail, you can retake it on another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test.
Renewing your license by mail or online
If your Alabama license expired fewer than five years ago, you may renew by mail or online without visiting a DPS office. You cannot renew by mail or online if your license has been suspended, revoked, or restricted; if you have medical conditions that affect your ability to drive; or if you are over 70 years old (drivers over 70 must renew in person every four years).
To renew online, go to the Alabama DPS website and follow the renewal portal. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and a valid payment method. The fee is the same as renewing in person. Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the DPS website, fill it out, and mail it with a check or money order to the address on the form. Include a copy of your current license. Mail renewal takes longer — usually 2 to 3 weeks — so plan ahead if your license is about to expire.
Renewing in person at a DPS office
You must renew in person if your license expired more than five years ago, if you are over 70, if you have medical restrictions, or if you want to change your address or name. Bring the same documents you would bring for a new license: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You will not retake the written test or driving skills test unless the examiner has reason to believe you are unsafe to drive.
You will take a new photo and a new vision screening. If your vision has changed significantly, you may be asked to see an eye doctor. The renewal takes about 30 minutes at the office. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, or you can pay an extra fee to receive it the same day at some offices.
Finding a DPS Driver License office near you
Alabama has Driver License offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Alabama DPS website by entering your county or city. The website shows the office address, phone number, and hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some are open on Saturday mornings. A few offices require you to make an appointment online before you visit; check the website for your specific office.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices in larger cities tend to be busier. If you want to avoid a long wait, call ahead or check the DPS website to see if your office shows current wait times. Some offices allow you to check in online before you arrive, which can shorten your wait.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new one to arrive?
Yes. When you pass your test at the DPS office, you receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days. This allows you to drive legally while your permanent license is being mailed to you. Keep the temporary license with you while driving.
What happens if I fail the driving skills test?
You can retake the test on another day at no extra cost. There is no waiting period between attempts. Many people pass on their second or third try. The examiner will tell you what you did wrong so you can practice before you come back.
Do I need to take the written test again if I renew my license?
No. If you renew by mail, online, or in person and your license has not been expired for more than five years, you do not retake the written test or driving skills test. You only take a new photo and vision screening.
What if my name or address has changed since I got my license?
You must renew in person to change your name or address. Bring your current license, proof of your new name (marriage certificate or court order) or new address (utility bill or lease), and your other required documents. The DPS will update your information and issue a new license.
Can I renew my license if it has been suspended or revoked?
No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation with the DPS before you can renew. Contact the DPS Driver License Division to find out why your license was suspended or revoked and what steps you need to take to restore it.