Where to get a driver license in Montgomery
The Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) issues driver licenses in Montgomery at the Driver License Examiner's Office located at 301 South Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36104. This is the main office for Montgomery-area residents and handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and testing. You can visit in person during business hours, which are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though hours may vary by season.
The office does not accept walk-ins for road tests on a first-come, first-served basis. If you need to take a driving test, you must schedule an appointment in advance through the Alabama DPS website or by calling the Montgomery office directly. For routine transactions like renewals or address changes, you can often walk in without an appointment, but calling ahead to confirm current procedures is wise.
There is no separate online portal to renew a driver license in Alabama — all transactions require an in-person visit or, in limited cases, mail renewal for certain may be able to access drivers. The Montgomery office is the primary location; there are no satellite offices within the city limits.
Key Takeaways
- The Alabama DPS Driver License Examiner's Office in Montgomery is located at 301 South Ripley Street and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Road tests must be scheduled by appointment; you cannot take a test on a walk-in basis.
- You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number to obtain or renew a license.
- Renewal by mail is available only for drivers who meet specific age and status requirements; most residents must renew in person.
- The office processes new licenses, renewals, replacements, and duplicate licenses at the same location.
Documents you need to bring
Alabama requires specific documents for any driver license transaction. For a new license or renewal, bring a valid form of identification (such as a passport, military ID, or previous driver license), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099), and proof of residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
If you are explore for a Real ID-compliant license — which is required for federal building access and domestic air travel as of May 7, 2025 — you will need the same documents plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. A photocopy of your birth certificate is not acceptable for Real ID purposes.
Bring your current license if you are renewing or replacing it. If you are a new resident of Alabama, bring your out-of-state license along with your other documents. The Montgomery office staff can tell you on the spot if your documents are acceptable; if something is missing, they will not process your transaction that day.
Cost and payment methods
A standard Alabama driver license costs $25.50 for a four-year license or $51 for an eight-year license. Real ID licenses cost $27.50 for four years or $55 for eight years. Duplicate licenses (if yours is lost or stolen) cost $10. Renewal fees are the same as the original license fee.
The Montgomery DPS office accepts cash, check, and debit or credit card. Some offices accept money orders, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods is recommended. Fees are subject to change, so verify the current cost on the Alabama DPS website before your visit.
How long it takes to get your license
If you are renewing an existing license and do not need to take a road test, the transaction typically takes 15 to 30 minutes at the Montgomery office. The license is issued on the spot as a temporary paper document, and your permanent plastic card is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.
If you are explore for a new license and must take a road test, you will need to schedule that appointment separately. Road tests are scheduled weeks in advance during busy periods, so plan accordingly. Once you pass the test, your license is issued the same way — temporary paper on the day of the test, plastic card by mail within a week or two.
If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, the process is the same as a renewal and takes about 15 to 30 minutes. Your replacement license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
Real ID versus standard driver license
Alabama offers two types of driver licenses: a standard license and a Real ID-compliant license. The Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A standard license does not have this star and cannot be used for those purposes after May 7, 2025.
The Real ID license requires an original or certified birth certificate in addition to the standard documents. If you do not have your birth certificate, you can order a certified copy from the Alabama Center for Health Statistics or from the county where you were born. This process takes time, so plan ahead if you need a Real ID license.
You do not have to get a Real ID license if you do not fly domestically or enter federal buildings. A standard license is still valid for driving and for state identification purposes. When you renew, the Montgomery office will ask which type you want; you can choose either one.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your Alabama driver license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it at the Montgomery office until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Suspensions are typically caused by unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or failure to appear in court. Revocations are more serious and are usually the result of DUI convictions or accumulating too many points on your driving record.
To find out the status of your license, contact the Alabama DPS directly or check the status online through the Alabama DPS website. You will need your driver license number or Social Security number. Once you have resolved the underlying issue (paid the fine, completed a court requirement, or served a suspension period), you can return to the Montgomery office to reinstate your license.
Reinstatement may require additional fees beyond the standard renewal fee. The Montgomery office can tell you the exact amount and what documents you need to bring when you call or visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license by mail from Montgomery?
Mail renewal is available only if you are 60 years old or older, have a valid license, and do not need to change your name, address, or license class. If you meet these requirements, you can request a mail renewal form from the Alabama DPS website or by calling the Montgomery office. Most residents must renew in person.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring other documents that show your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form, 1099, tax return, or bank statement. You do not need the card itself. The Montgomery office accepts any official document that displays your full Social Security number.
How do I schedule a road test in Montgomery?
Call the Alabama DPS Driver License Examiner's Office in Montgomery at the main number or visit the Alabama DPS website to schedule an appointment. Road tests are booked weeks in advance during peak times, so schedule as early as possible. You will be given a specific date and time for your test.
Can I get a temporary license to drive while I wait for my plastic card?
Yes. The Montgomery office issues a temporary paper license on the day you renew or pass your road test. This temporary license is valid for driving and is accepted as identification until your permanent plastic card arrives by mail, usually within 7 to 10 business days.
What if my name has changed since my last license?
Bring your current license, proof of your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), and your other required documents. The Montgomery office will issue a new license with your updated name. This is treated as a replacement, not a renewal, and the fee is the same.