Alabama driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last

An Alabama driver's license costs between $20 and $32, depending on whether you want a four-year or eight-year license. A four-year license costs $20. An eight-year license costs $32. These are the fees charged by the Alabama Department of Public Safety, which issues all driver's licenses in the state.

You pay the fee when you visit a Driver License Examiner's Office to get your license. The office takes payment in cash, check, or debit card — not all locations accept credit cards, so call ahead if you plan to use one. If you renew by mail, you still pay the same fee, and you can pay by check.

The fee covers the cost of the card itself, the background check, and the processing. It does not include any testing fees if you are taking a written or road test for the first time.

Key Takeaways

  • A four-year Alabama driver's license costs $20; an eight-year license costs $32.
  • You pay the fee in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office when you get or renew your license.
  • Payment methods include cash, check, and debit card, though not all offices accept credit cards.
  • The fee does not cover written or road tests if you are taking them for the first time.
  • Replacement licenses for a lost, stolen, or damaged card cost $20 regardless of how many years remain on your current license.

Where to pay and what to bring

You pay at any Driver License Examiner's Office run by the Alabama Department of Public Safety. There are offices in every county. To find the one nearest you, visit the Department of Public Safety website and search by county, or call 334-242-4437.

Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or military ID). If you are renewing, bring your current license. If you are getting a license for the first time or after a suspension, you will also need to pass a written test and a road test, which are given at the same office on the same day at no extra charge.

Processing usually takes 10 to 15 minutes if you are renewing and all your documents are in order. If you are getting a license for the first time, plan for one to two hours because of the tests.

Renewal by mail costs the same but takes longer

If your license is not suspended and you have not had any major changes to your address or name, you can renew by mail instead of going to an office. The fee is still $20 for four years or $32 for eight years. You pay by check made out to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

To renew by mail, read the renewal form from the Department of Public Safety website, fill it out, and mail it with your check and your current license to the address on the form. Processing takes four to six weeks from the time the office receives your envelope. Your new license will arrive by mail.

Renewing by mail is slower but saves you a trip. It is a good option if your schedule does not allow a visit to an office or if the nearest office is far away.

Replacement licenses and special circumstances

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $20. You do not pay extra based on how many years are left on your current license — the replacement fee is flat. You must go to an office in person to get a replacement; you cannot do it by mail.

If you need a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and some flights), the fee is the same — $20 for four years or $32 for eight years. Real ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner. You will need extra documents to prove your identity and residency, but the license fee itself does not change.

If you are a military member stationed in Alabama, you may be able to renew by mail even if you normally could not. Contact your local Driver License Examiner's Office to ask about military exceptions.

Payment methods and what happens if you cannot pay in person

Most Driver License Examiner's Offices accept cash and check. Many also accept debit cards. Credit cards are accepted at some offices but not all, so call ahead if you plan to use one. The office will give you a receipt showing the fee paid and the type of license you received.

If you cannot afford the fee at the time you need to renew, there is no payment plan or fee waiver through the Department of Public Safety. However, some community action agencies and legal aid organizations in Alabama offer emergency information with government fees for people with very low income. Contact your county's community action agency or call 211 to ask whether such help is available in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay the driver's license fee online?

No. The Alabama Department of Public Safety does not accept online payment for driver's license fees. You must pay in person at an office or by check if you renew by mail.

What if I turn 18 before my license expires — do I have to pay to renew early?

Yes. When you turn 18, you must renew your license and pay the full fee again. Your teenage license and adult license are treated as separate licenses. Plan to renew within 30 days of your 18th birthday.

Is there a fee to take the written or road test?

No. The written test and road test are free. You only pay the license fee when you pass and receive your card. If you fail a test, you can retake it at no charge, though you may have to wait a few days before your next attempt.

Do I have to pay the full fee if I renew early?

Yes. Whether you renew early or on time, you pay the full $20 or $32 fee. There is no discount for renewing before your license expires.

What if I move out of Alabama — can I get a refund?

No. The Alabama Department of Public Safety does not refund license fees. If you move to another state, you will need to get a license from that state and pay their fee.