Where to get your driver's license in Baldwin County

The Alabama Department of Public Safety, Driver License Division, runs all driver's license services in Baldwin County. You cannot get a license from your city or county government — only from the state office. Baldwin County has one main Driver License office located in Daphne, and a satellite office in Foley that operates on limited hours.

The Daphne office is at 2700 Main Street, Daphne, AL 36526. The Foley satellite office is at 1001 North McKenzie Street, Foley, AL 36535. Both offices handle new licenses, renewals, and replacements. Hours vary by location and change seasonally, so calling ahead or checking the Alabama Department of Public Safety website before you go is the practical step.

You do not need an appointment at either location, but wait times can run long during lunch hours and late afternoon. Early morning visits typically mean shorter lines. The offices are closed on weekends and state holidays.

Key Takeaways

  • Only the Alabama Department of Public Safety issues driver's licenses; Baldwin County has one main office in Daphne and a satellite in Foley.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the specific documents accepted are listed on the state website.
  • A new license costs a set fee that varies depending on whether you are getting a standard license, a REAL ID, or a commercial license.
  • Processing takes about 10 business days for a standard license mailed to your address; REAL ID licenses take longer because they require additional verification.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present with their own ID and proof of guardianship.

Documents you need to bring

The Alabama Department of Public Safety requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot complete the process without all three, so gathering them before you go saves a trip.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. A photocopy of your birth certificate does not work — it must be an original or certified copy ordered from the county where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or a Certificate of Naturalization.

For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, or a government-issued document showing your current Baldwin County 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.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring documentation of your immigration status and explore for one before you can get a driver's license.

Cost and license types

A standard Alabama driver's license costs a fixed fee set by the state. The exact amount depends on the length of validity — a four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. You pay at the time you explore, and the fee is non-refundable even if you are denied.

A REAL ID-compliant license costs more than a standard license. REAL ID is a federal standard required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings starting in May 2025. If you plan to fly domestically, a REAL ID is worth the extra cost. The process takes longer because the state verifies your documents more thoroughly.

A commercial driver's license (CDL) for truck driving or other commercial vehicles requires a separate written test and a road test, and costs more than a standard license. You must already hold a valid regular driver's license before you can get a CDL.

What happens after you explore

After you submit your documents and pass the written test and vision screening, the state mails your license to the address you provided. Standard licenses typically arrive within 10 business days. REAL ID licenses take longer — usually 15 to 20 business days — because the state performs additional background checks.

You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that day. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent card to arrive. Keep it with you while driving.

If your license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety directly. Do not assume it is lost — mail delays happen, and the state can check the status of your process.

Renewing or replacing an existing license

If your Alabama license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew it at either Baldwin County office. Bring your current or expired license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card or equivalent document. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening for a renewal.

If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, you need a replacement. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number — the same documents as a new license. You will pay a replacement fee, which is lower than the cost of a new license. You do not need to take the written test or vision screening for a replacement.

If your license expired more than two years ago, you must explore for a new license, not a renewal. You will need to take the written test and vision screening again.

Testing requirements for a new license

To get a new driver's license, you must pass a written test covering Alabama traffic laws and road signs, and a vision screening. The written test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages.

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot get a license until you see an eye doctor and bring documentation that your vision meets Alabama standards.

You can study for the written test using the Alabama Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Many people study it for a few hours the day before and pass on their first attempt. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day.

Special situations and restrictions

If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you to the office. They must bring their own valid ID and proof of guardianship (usually a birth certificate showing they are your parent, or a court order if they are your legal guardian). Minors under 16 cannot get a driver's license in Alabama — the earliest age is 16 for a learner's permit or restricted license.

If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive, you may need a letter from your doctor. Conditions like seizure disorders, severe vision loss, or certain medications can result in restrictions on your license or denial. The state will tell you if documentation is needed.

If you have an out-of-state license, you can transfer it to Alabama. Bring your current out-of-state license, proof of residency in Baldwin County, and proof of your Social Security number. You do not need to retake the written test if your out-of-state license is still valid, but you will still need to pass the vision screening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I do not have a birth certificate?

You can use a valid passport, military ID, or state ID from another state instead of a birth certificate. If you were born outside the United States, a passport or Certificate of Naturalization works. If you have none of these, you will need to order a certified copy of your birth certificate from the county or state where you were born before you can get a license.

What if I do not have proof of residency in my name?

Utility bills, lease agreements, and bank statements are the most common forms. If you recently moved and have not received a bill yet, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead showing your address and move-in date. Some offices accept a notarized letter from a family member confirming your address if you have no other option.

How long does a driver's license last in Alabama?

Standard Alabama driver's licenses are valid for four or eight years, depending on which you choose at the time you explore. REAL ID licenses follow the same schedule. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.

Can I take the written test in a language other than English?

Yes. The Alabama Department of Public Safety offers the written test in English and several other languages. Tell the staff member at the office which language you need before you begin the test.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or return another day at no extra charge. Most people who study the Alabama Driver's Manual for a few hours pass on their second attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.