What You Need to Know About Alabama Driver License Renewal

Alabama allows you to renew your driver license by mail, online, or in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have before expiration, and whether you need to update your photo or address. Most people can complete the process without visiting an office, though some situations require an in-person visit.

Your renewal notice will arrive in the mail about 60 days before your license expires. This notice contains your renewal number and instructions specific to your situation. Keep this notice handy — you'll need the renewal number for online or mail renewal.

Key Takeaways

  • Alabama sends renewal notices about 60 days before expiration; check your mail and keep the notice because it contains your renewal number.
  • Online renewal through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website is the fastest option if your license is current and you don't need a new photo.
  • Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires mailing your renewal notice, payment, and a new photo if your license is expired.
  • In-person renewal at a Driver License Examiner's Office is necessary if you need to change your address, update your photo, or if your license has been expired for more than five years.
  • Renewal fees vary based on license type and validity period; standard passenger licenses typically cost between $25 and $35.

Renewing Online Through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

Online renewal is the fastest method if you meet the requirements. You can renew online if your current license is valid (not expired), you have your renewal notice with the renewal number, and you don't need to change your photo or address. Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website, locate the Driver License Renewal section, and enter your renewal number and other requested information.

You'll pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. The system will confirm your renewal when ready, and your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. This method works well if you're renewing before your license expires and your information hasn't changed.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal works if your license is current or expired by fewer than five years. You'll need your renewal notice, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a new photo if your license is expired. Write your renewal number on the back of your check or money order.

Mail your renewal notice, payment, and photo (if required) to the address listed on your renewal notice. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the office receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to your current address. If you don't receive your renewed license within four weeks, contact the Driver License Examiner's Office to confirm receipt of your materials.

Renewing in Person at a Driver License Examiner's Office

Visit a Driver License Examiner's Office if your license has been expired for more than five years, you need to change your address, you want to update your photo, or you're changing your name. You'll need to bring your current license (or expired license if it's been less than five years), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. Acceptable address documents include a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

Bring a new photo if your current photo is more than eight years old or if you're required to provide one. The office can take your photo on-site for an additional fee if you prefer. Processing is when ready — you'll receive a temporary license to use while your permanent license is mailed, which typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

Wait times at Driver License Examiner's Offices vary by location and time of day. Many offices are busier on Fridays and during lunch hours. Check the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website for your local office's hours and location before you go.

What Documents and Information You'll Need

For any renewal method, have your renewal notice ready. If renewing by mail or in person, you'll need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form) and proof of your current address if you're changing it. A utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank statement works for address proof.

If your license is expired and you're renewing by mail, include a new photo. For in-person renewal, bring your current or recently expired license. If your license expired more than five years ago, you may need to retake the written test — contact your local Driver License Examiner's Office to confirm before you visit.

Renewal Fees and Processing Times

Standard passenger driver license renewal fees range from $25 to $35 depending on the validity period you choose (typically four or eight years). Commercial driver license renewals cost more. Payment methods vary by renewal method: online renewal accepts credit or debit cards, mail renewal requires a check or money order, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, or card depending on the office.

Online renewal is fastest — your license is confirmed when ready and arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks for processing plus mailing time. In-person renewal is when ready for your temporary license, with your permanent license arriving within 7 to 10 business days. If you're renewing close to your expiration date, online renewal is your safest option.

What Happens If Your License Expires Before You Renew

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Alabama. If your license has expired, you can still renew by mail or in person, but you cannot renew online. Mail renewal requires a new photo. In-person renewal is faster if you need to drive when ready — you'll receive a temporary license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed.

If your license expired more than five years ago, contact your local Driver License Examiner's Office before attempting to renew. You may be required to retake the written test and vision test. The office can tell you exactly what's required for your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I've moved to a different address?

Yes, but you must renew in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office if you're changing your address. Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days) along with your current license and proof of your Social Security number. Online and mail renewal only work if your address stays the same.

What if I lost my renewal notice?

Contact your local Driver License Examiner's Office and request a duplicate renewal notice. You can also call the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency to request your renewal number. You'll need your driver license number and other identifying information. Having your renewal number is necessary for online renewal.

How long is my temporary license valid if I renew in person?

Your temporary license is valid for 30 days from the date it's issued. Your permanent license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If your permanent license doesn't arrive within 15 days, contact the Driver License Examiner's Office to check the status.

Can I renew my license before the renewal notice arrives?

No. You need your renewal notice and renewal number to renew online or by mail. You can renew in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office without a renewal notice if your license is still valid. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and payment.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring legal documentation of your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will update your name in the system and issue a new license with your current name. This cannot be done online or by mail.