What you need to bring to the DMV

Alabama's Department of Public Safety issues driver's licenses at regional DMV offices. To get one, you'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — all three categories. The state does not accept digital copies; bring originals or certified copies.

For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, a lease agreement, a mortgage statement, or a bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Alabama address. For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a tax return, or a 1099 form.

If you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian must come with you and bring their own proof of identity and residency. If you're renewing and your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring originals or certified copies of proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to any Alabama DMV office.
  • The fee for a standard four-year driver's license is $25.50; an eight-year license costs $32.50.
  • You will take a written test on road signs and traffic laws, a vision test, and a driving test before the license is issued.
  • If you're under 18, your parent or legal guardian must attend the appointment with you.
  • You can find your nearest DMV office and check current wait times on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website.

The written test, vision test, and driving test

Before you receive your license, you must pass three tests at the DMV. The written test covers Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Alabama Driver's Manual, which is free on the Department of Public Safety website. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass.

The vision test checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. You'll read letters and numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. The DMV will note on your license whether you must wear corrective lenses while driving.

The driving test takes place on public roads near the DMV office. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches how you handle turns, stops, parking, and traffic. You must demonstrate that you can control the vehicle safely and follow traffic laws. If you fail any of the three tests, you can retake it after waiting a set period — usually a few days to a week.

Fees and how long it takes

A standard four-year Alabama driver's license costs $25.50. An eight-year license costs $32.50. You pay this fee at the DMV office when you pass all three tests. The DMV does not accept payment by mail or online; you must pay in person.

Your license is usually issued the same day you pass the tests, though the DMV may mail it to you within one to two weeks. If you need to drive before your physical license arrives, ask the DMV for a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Bring your temporary license and a photo ID when you drive.

Renewing your Alabama driver's license

If your license is expiring, you can renew it in person at any DMV office or by mail. To renew by mail, send your current license, a completed renewal form (DL-44), a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a new photo to the Alabama Department of Public Safety. The renewal fee is $25.50 for a four-year license or $32.50 for an eight-year license.

Renewing by mail takes two to four weeks. If you renew in person at the DMV, you'll receive your new license the same day or within one to two weeks by mail. You do not need to retake the written or driving test when renewing, but you will have a new photo taken and pass a vision test.

Your license expires on your birthday. The DMV sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before expiration, but you can renew up to one year early if you prefer. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Alabama, even if you have applied for renewal.

Getting a Real ID-compliant license

Alabama offers Real ID-compliant driver's licenses, which meet federal security standards and are required for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings as of May 2025. A Real ID license looks like a standard license but has a gold star in the upper right corner.

To get a Real ID license, bring the same documents you would for a standard license — proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number — plus an additional document showing your current address if your proof of residency is more than 60 days old. The fee is the same as a standard license: $25.50 for four years or $32.50 for eight years.

If you already have a standard Alabama driver's license and want to upgrade to Real ID, you can do so at your next renewal or visit the DMV to upgrade early. You will need to bring the same documents and pay the standard license fee.

What to do if you lose your license or it's damaged

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, visit any Alabama DMV office to request a replacement. Bring proof of identity and residency, just as you would for a new license. The replacement fee is $20. You will have a new photo taken, and the DMV will issue your replacement license the same day or mail it within one to two weeks.

If your license was stolen, you may also want to report the theft to local police and monitor your credit report for fraudulent activity. The DMV can note on your record that your license was stolen, which may help if someone tries to use it.

Finding your nearest DMV office and scheduling an appointment

Alabama has DMV offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, check current wait times, and schedule an appointment on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many require appointments, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduling ahead can cut your wait time significantly.

Office hours vary by location, but most are open Monday through Friday during business hours. Some offices have extended hours one or two evenings per week. If you cannot reach an office by phone, use the online appointment system or visit in person to ask about availability.

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 legal residents regardless of citizenship status. You must bring proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. If you don't have a Social Security number, bring an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring a letter from your employer or a tax return showing your ITIN.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test after waiting a few days to a week. There is no additional fee to retake the test. You do not need to retake the written or vision test unless the DMV requires it. Ask the examiner what you need to improve before your next attempt.

Can I renew my license online?

No. Alabama does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail or in person at a DMV office. Renewing by mail takes two to four weeks; renewing in person takes one day to two weeks depending on whether the DMV mails your license or issues it same-day.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

It depends on your local DMV office. Many offices now require appointments, especially during busy times. Check the Alabama Department of Public Safety website for your office's policy. If appointments are required and you walk in without one, you may be turned away or face a long wait.

What if I move to a different state — do I need a new Alabama license?

No. You can keep your Alabama license as long as it's valid. However, if you become a resident of another state, that state's DMV may require you to get a license there. Check the new state's rules. You do not need to surrender your Alabama license unless the new state requires it.