Where to renew and what you'll need

You can renew your Alabama driver license in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years, and if you have no medical conditions to report.

Before you go to an office or start an online renewal, gather these documents: your current Alabama driver license (or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

You do not need to take a new written test or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than five years, or unless DPS requests one based on your driving record or age. Most renewals are straightforward and do not require either.

Key Takeaways

  • You can renew online if your license is current and not suspended, or in person at any DPS office if you prefer.
  • Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address dated within the last 60 days.
  • Online renewal takes a few minutes and your new license arrives by mail in about two weeks; in-person renewal is same-day or next-day.
  • If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person and will need to pass a vision test and written exam.

Renewing online through the Alabama DPS website

Start at the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and look for the online driver license renewal option. You will enter your driver license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you are may be able to access for online renewal.

If you are may be able to access, you will answer questions about any changes to your address, medical conditions, or organ donor status. You will pay the renewal fee (currently $32.50 for a four-year license or $48.75 for an eight-year license) using a credit or debit card. After you submit, you will receive a confirmation number by email.

Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided, usually within two weeks. You can continue to drive on your current license until the new one arrives. Keep your confirmation number in case you need to check the status of your renewal.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Find the DPS driver license office nearest you on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours on certain days. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now offer online scheduling to reduce wait times — check your local office's page to see if this is available.

Bring your documents (current license, proof of Social Security number, proof of address, and any name-change documents) and arrive prepared to have your photograph taken. The staff will verify your information, collect your fee, and issue your new license on the spot or within one business day. The renewal fee is the same as online: $32.50 for four years or $48.75 for eight years.

If you are over 70 years old, you may be asked to take a vision test as part of your renewal. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you will need to pass both a vision test and a written knowledge exam before your license is issued.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

You cannot renew online if your license is suspended or revoked. You must go to a DPS office in person. The office staff will tell you the reason for the suspension or revocation and what you need to do to clear it — this might be paying a fine, completing a defensive driving course, or resolving a court matter.

Until the suspension or revocation is lifted, you cannot legally drive. Once it is cleared, you can renew your license at that same visit if all other requirements are met. If clearing the issue requires action outside the DPS office (such as paying a court fine), you will need to complete that step first, then return to renew.

Renewing a license that expired more than five years ago

If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person at a DPS office. You will need to pass a vision test and take the written knowledge exam, the same test new drivers take. You can study using the Alabama Driver Manual, which is available free on the DPS website.

Bring all your documents plus proof that you have passed a vision test within the last 12 months (an eye doctor's report or glasses prescription), or be prepared to take one at the office. The vision test at the DPS office is basic and checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you fail, you will be given information on how to correct the problem and return.

Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office for this type of renewal, longer if the office is busy. Once you pass both the vision test and the written exam, your new license will be issued.

Fees and how long renewal takes

Alabama driver license renewal costs $32.50 for a four-year license or $48.75 for an eight-year license. You pay at the time of renewal, whether online or in person. The state accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash at in-person offices.

Online renewal takes a few minutes to complete, and your new license arrives by mail within about two weeks. In-person renewal at a DPS office is usually completed the same day or within one business day. Your current license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to drive legally during the wait.

Changing your address or other information during renewal

Whether you renew online or in person, you will be asked to confirm or update your address. If you have moved since your last license was issued, provide your new address. The DPS will mail your new license to the address you give them.

You can also update your organ donor status, emergency contact information, and medical conditions during renewal. If you have a medical condition that affects your ability to drive (such as a seizure disorder or severe vision loss), you must report it. The DPS may require a medical evaluation form from your doctor before issuing your new license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

It depends on the type of ticket or fine. Minor unpaid traffic fines usually do not prevent renewal. However, if you have unpaid fines related to a suspended license or a serious violation, the DPS may hold your renewal until the matter is resolved. Contact your local DPS office or the court that issued the ticket to find out whether it will block your renewal.

What if I lost my Social Security card and don't have another proof of my Social Security number?

You can request a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration, or you can bring an alternative document such as a W-2, 1099, or tax return showing your full Social Security number. If you have none of these, call your local DPS office to ask what other documents they will accept as proof.

Do I need to take a new photo for my renewal license?

If you renew online, your photo from your current license will be used on your new license. If you renew in person, the DPS will take a new photograph. You cannot bring your own photo or request to use an old one.

How long is my new Alabama driver license valid?

You choose between a four-year license ($32.50) and an eight-year license ($48.75) at the time of renewal. Your new license will be valid for whichever term you select, starting from the date it is issued. The expiration date will be printed on the front of your license.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No. You must renew your license yourself, either online or in person. The DPS requires your identity verification and your signature (or electronic consent online). A family member or representative cannot complete the renewal on your behalf.