What You Need to Do to Renew in Alabama
Alabama lets you renew your driver's 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, and whether you need a new photo. Mail and online renewals are faster and cost less, but you can only use them if your license hasn't expired more than five years ago and you don't need a new photograph.
If your license expired more than five years ago, or if you want a new photo, you must renew in person. In-person renewal takes longer because you'll need to visit an office, but it's the only way to get an updated license photo or restore a license that's been expired for years.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Alabama Department of Public Safety website is the fastest option if your license expired less than five years ago and you don't need a new photo.
- Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and costs less than in-person renewal, but requires your current license and a check or money order.
- In-person renewal at a Driver License Examiner's Office is required if your license expired more than five years ago or if you want a new photograph.
- Renewal fees vary: online costs around $20, mail costs around $25, and in-person costs around $30, though fees change periodically.
- You'll need proof of identity, Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency for any renewal method.
Renewing Online Through the Alabama Department of Public Safety
The Alabama Department of Public Safety operates an online renewal system at their official website. You can renew online if your license is still valid or expired less than five years, and if you don't want a new photograph. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes and you'll receive your renewed license by mail within one to two weeks.
To renew online, you'll need your current Alabama driver's license number, your date of birth, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). The system will ask you to confirm your address and personal information. Once you submit the form and payment, you're done—no office visit required. Your new license will arrive at the address on file.
Online renewal costs less than other methods and is the fastest way to get a renewed license without leaving home. However, you cannot change your address, add a REAL ID designation, or get a new photo through the online system.
Renewing by Mail
Mail renewal is an option if your license expired less than five years ago and you don't need a new photo. You'll need to request a renewal form from the Alabama Department of Public Safety or read it from their website. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for the renewal fee, and mail both to the address listed on the form.
Processing time for mail renewal is typically two to three weeks from the date the department receives your envelope. Your renewed license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form. Mail renewal costs slightly more than online renewal because of the processing time involved.
Keep a copy of your check or money order number in case you need to track your renewal. If you don't receive your license within four weeks, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety to confirm they received your process.
Renewing in Person at a Driver License Examiner's Office
In-person renewal is required if your license expired more than five years ago, if you want a new photograph, or if you need to change your address or add REAL ID status. You'll visit a Driver License Examiner's Office, bring the required documents, have your photo taken, and pay the renewal fee. The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is.
Bring your current Alabama driver's license (or expired license if you still have it), proof of your Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement. If you've changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.
You'll receive your renewed license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office. In-person renewal costs more than mail or online renewal, but it's the only way to update your photo or restore a license that's been expired for years.
Documents and Information You'll Need for Any Renewal Method
No matter which renewal method you choose, you'll need to provide certain information. Have your Social Security number ready, your current address, and your date of birth. If you're renewing online or by mail, you'll need your current license number.
If you've changed your name, address, or other information since your last license, you may need to bring supporting documents. For a name change, bring a certified copy of a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. For an address change, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days that shows your new address.
If you're renewing in person, bring your current license and proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return). You'll also need one form of proof of Alabama residency.
Renewal Fees and Processing Times
| Renewal Method | Fee (Approximate) | Processing Time | When to Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online | $20 | 1–2 weeks | License valid or expired less than 5 years; no new photo needed |
| $25 | 2–3 weeks | License valid or expired less than 5 years; no new photo needed | |
| In Person | $30 | Same day or within a few days | License expired more than 5 years; new photo needed; address or name change |
Fees are set by the Alabama Department of Public Safety and may change. Check their website or call ahead to confirm the current fee before you renew. If you're renewing in person, bring cash, a check, or a debit card—not all offices accept credit cards.
Finding a Driver License Examiner's Office Near You
The Alabama Department of Public Safety operates Driver License Examiner's Offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on their website by entering your county or city. Some offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours; a few have extended hours or Saturday appointments.
Call ahead before you visit to confirm hours and to ask about wait times. Some offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can save you time. If you live in a rural area far from an office, mail or online renewal may be your best option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if it expired more than five years ago?
Yes, but only by renewing in person at a Driver License Examiner's Office. You cannot use mail or online renewal if your license has been expired for more than five years. Bring your expired license if you still have it, along with proof of your Social Security number and proof of Alabama residency.
What if I want to change my address when I renew?
If you're renewing online or by mail, you can update your address as part of the renewal process. If you're renewing in person, tell the examiner your new address and bring proof of residency at that address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days.
How long does it take to get my renewed license?
Online renewal takes one to two weeks. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal gives you your license the same day or within a few days. If you don't receive your license within the expected timeframe, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety to check the status.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
No, you can renew without a new photo if your license is still valid or expired less than five years. If you want a new photo or if your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person. Some people choose in-person renewal just to update their photo even if they don't have to.
What if I lost my current license?
If you've lost your license, you'll need to renew in person because the examiner will need to verify your identity and take a new photo. Bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of Alabama residency. You may also need to pay a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.