What you need to get an Alabama driver license

Alabama issues driver licenses through the Department of Public Safety (DPS). To obtain one, you must visit a DPS Driver License Examining Station in person with specific documents and pass a written test, vision test, and driving test.

The documents you need depend on whether you are a new resident, renewing an existing license, or getting your first license. Alabama requires proof of identity (a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), proof of Social Security number (your Social Security card or a tax return), and proof of Alabama residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

If you are under 18, you must also complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before taking the driving test. Your parent or guardian must sign your process.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS Driver License Examining Station in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Alabama residency.
  • Alabama requires you to pass a written test, vision test, and road test before receiving your license.
  • Drivers under 18 must complete driver education and hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days.
  • An Alabama driver license costs $25.50 for a four-year license or $51 for an eight-year license.
  • You can renew your license by mail, online, or in person, depending on your age and how long it has been expired.

Where to find a DPS Driver License Examining Station

Alabama has Driver License Examining Stations in most counties. You can find the location nearest you on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. The site lists hours, which vary by location — some are open Monday through Friday only, while others have limited Saturday hours.

You do not need an appointment at most stations, but some locations now use an online reservation system. Check your local station's page before you go to see whether you can reserve a time slot. Wait times vary widely depending on the time of day and day of the week; early morning visits typically have shorter lines.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 30 questions about Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass. The test is available in English and Spanish.

You can study using the Alabama Driver Manual, which is free and available on the DPS website. The manual covers right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking, seat belt laws, and what different road signs mean. Many people study the manual for a few days before taking the test; there is no waiting period between studying and testing.

Vision and road tests

After you pass the written test, you take a vision screening at the examining station. You must be able to read a standard eye chart from 20 feet away. If you wear glasses or contacts, you must wear them during the test.

The road test happens on the same day if you pass the written and vision tests. A DPS examiner rides with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you bring) and watches you perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and backing up. The test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes. You must follow traffic laws and demonstrate safe driving habits. If you fail, you can retake the road test after waiting a few days.

Renewing your Alabama driver license

Alabama driver licenses are valid for four or eight years, depending on which you choose when you renew. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a DPS station.

Online renewal is available if your license is not expired and you have no medical conditions that require in-person review. You pay the renewal fee online and receive your new license by mail within two weeks. By-mail renewal works the same way: you send in your current license, a completed process form, and a check. In-person renewal at a DPS station takes about 30 minutes and requires the same documents as a new license.

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person and retake the written and road tests. If it has been expired for less than five years, you may be able to renew by mail or online without retesting, depending on your age.

Cost and payment methods

An Alabama driver license costs $25.50 for a four-year license or $51 for an eight-year license. These fees are set by state law and do not vary by location or examining station.

At a DPS examining station, you can pay with cash, check, or debit card. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. By-mail renewal requires a check or money order. There are no additional fees for retaking tests if you fail on your first attempt.

Special situations: Duplicate licenses, name changes, and address updates

If your license is lost or stolen, you can get a duplicate at any DPS examining station by showing proof of identity and paying $5. A duplicate has the same expiration date as your original license.

If you change your name due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you must visit a DPS station in person with a certified copy of the document showing the name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). There is no additional fee to update your name on your license.

You can update your address online, by mail, or in person. Online address changes are free and take effect when ready. By-mail and in-person updates also have no fee. You do not need to renew your license to change your address.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my new one?

Yes. When you pass your road test at a DPS examining station, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your permanent license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is valid for all purposes.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test after waiting at least one business day. You do not have to retake the written or vision tests. You pay the road test fee again, which is included in the overall license fee. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Do I need to renew my license before it expires?

No. You can renew up to six months before expiration or up to five years after expiration without penalty. However, driving with an expired license is illegal, so renew before the expiration date on your card.

Can I renew my license if I live outside Alabama?

If you have moved out of state, you must renew in person at a DPS examining station in Alabama or surrender your Alabama license and obtain a license from your new state. You cannot renew by mail or online if you no longer live in Alabama.

What documents do I need if I am a non-citizen?

Non-citizens can obtain an Alabama driver license if they have a valid visa or work permit. You must show your passport and visa or work permit, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency. The process is the same as for citizens, and the license is valid for the duration of your legal status in the United States.