How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Alabama driver's license renewal happens through the Alabama Department of Public Safety, and the process depends on whether you renew by mail, online, or in person

Alabama offers three renewal paths: mail-in renewal for those who meet certain conditions, online renewal through the state's portal, and in-person renewal at a Driver License Examiner's Office. Which route you take depends on your license type, how much time remains before expiration, and whether you need a new photo. Most renewals take effect when ready if done online or in person, while mail renewals typically process within two to three weeks after the office receives your materials.

Your renewal notice arrives by mail about 60 days before your license expires. This notice contains your renewal code, which you will need for online or mail renewal. If you do not receive a notice, you can still renew in person at any Driver License Examiner's Office, but having the notice speeds the process.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Alabama Department of Public Safety website is the fastest option and takes minutes if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo.
Mail renewal requires your renewal notice, a completed process form, payment, and a new photo if your license is more than eight years old or if you want to update your image.
In-person renewal at a Driver License Examiner's Office is necessary if your license is already expired, if you need to change your address, or if you want to update your photo.
The renewal fee in Alabama is $24.50 for a four-year license or $36.75 for an eight-year license, and payment methods vary by renewal type.
You must bring proof of residency and identity to any in-person renewal, and the acceptable documents are listed on the Department of Public Safety website.

Online renewal through the Alabama Department of Public Safety website

Online renewal is the fastest and most convenient option if your license is not yet expired and you do not need a new photo. You visit the Alabama Department of Public Safety's online renewal portal, enter your driver's license number and renewal code from your notice, and answer verification questions. The system confirms your identity and processes your payment by credit or debit card. Your renewed license is mailed to the address on file within seven to ten business days.

Online renewal is not available if your license has already expired, if you need to change your address, or if you want a new photo. You also cannot renew online if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you have unpaid traffic fines or child support obligations flagged in the system. The portal will tell you when ready if you are ineligible and direct you to in-person renewal instead.

Mail renewal with your renewal notice

Mail renewal requires your renewal notice, a completed DL-43 form (process for Alabama Driver License), a new photo if your current license is more than eight years old, and payment. You can read the DL-43 form from the Alabama Department of Public Safety website or request one by mail. Mail your completed form, photo, payment, and renewal notice to the address listed on your notice.

Payment by mail must be by check or money order made payable to the State of Alabama. Do not send cash. Processing takes two to three weeks after the office receives your materials. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL) or if you have had violations or suspensions, mail renewal may not be available, and you will need to visit an office in person.

In-person renewal at a Driver License Examiner's Office

In-person renewal is required if your license has expired, if you need to change your address, if you want a new photo, or if you have had any license suspensions or violations. You visit your nearest Driver License Examiner's Office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment. The office takes a new photo, processes your process, and issues your renewed license on the spot or within a few days, depending on the office's workload.

Proof of identity can be a passport, military ID, birth certificate, or other government-issued document. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address. The Alabama Department of Public Safety website lists all acceptable documents. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted. Payment at an office can be by cash, check, debit card, or credit card, depending on the office's equipment.

What to bring and how to find your nearest office

For any in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment. If you are renewing a commercial driver's license, bring your current CDL and any medical certification if required. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change.

The Alabama Department of Public Safety website has a Driver License Examiner's Office locator tool. Enter your county or city, and the tool shows all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they accept walk-ins or require appointments. Many offices now use an online appointment system; check your local office's page before visiting. Some offices have longer wait times during certain hours or seasons, so calling ahead can save you a trip.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Alabama charges $24.50 for a four-year driver's license renewal or $36.75 for an eight-year renewal. You choose the term when you renew. The fee is the same whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Online and in-person renewals accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Mail renewal accepts only checks or money orders. No additional fees explore unless you request a duplicate license or a corrected license.

If you are renewing a commercial driver's license, the fee is higher and depends on the endorsements you hold. The office or website will show you the exact amount before you complete your transaction. Some offices may charge a small additional fee for services like address changes or name corrections, though most do not.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your license has expired, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a Driver License Examiner's Office in person. Bring the same documents as a standard in-person renewal: proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment. The office will process your renewal the same way, and you will receive your new license on the spot or within a few days.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Alabama, even if you have applied for renewal. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can show your renewal notice or a receipt from your office visit as proof that you have begun the renewal process, but this does not may provide you will avoid a citation. Renew as soon as your license expires to avoid this risk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Alabama driver's license before the renewal notice arrives?

Yes, you can renew in person at any Driver License Examiner's Office without your renewal notice. You will need your current license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment. Online renewal requires your renewal code from the notice, so you cannot use that method until the notice arrives.

How long does a renewed Alabama driver's license take to arrive by mail?

Online renewals and in-person renewals typically arrive within seven to ten business days. Mail renewals take two to three weeks after the office receives your materials, plus mail delivery time. If you need your license quickly, in-person renewal is fastest because you receive it the same day or within a few days.

What if I need to change my address during renewal?

You can change your address during any renewal method. Online renewal allows address changes during the process. Mail renewal requires you to write your new address on the DL-43 form. In-person renewal lets you update your address at the office. Address changes are processed at no extra cost.

Do I need a new photo if my license is not yet eight years old?

No, you do not need a new photo if your license is less than eight years old and you are renewing by mail or online. However, you can request a new photo at any time by renewing in person. In-person renewal always includes a new photo.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew your license while it is suspended or revoked. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation with the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Contact the department directly to learn what steps are required, then you can renew once the suspension or revocation is lifted.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.