What you need to renew online in Alabama
Alabama allows you to renew your driver's license online through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website if you meet specific requirements. You cannot renew online if your license has been suspended, revoked, or if you need to change your address, name, or other personal information. You also cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than five years.
To renew online, you must have a valid email address, a credit or debit card for the renewal fee, and your current Alabama driver's license number. The process takes about 10 minutes and you will receive your renewed license by mail within 7 to 10 business days after ALEA processes your request.
Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date of renewal if you are under 65, or five years if you are 65 or older. The online renewal fee is the same as renewing in person at an ALEA office.
Key Takeaways
- You can only renew online through ALEA's website if your license is valid, not suspended or revoked, and has not been expired for more than five years.
- The online process requires your current license number, a valid email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
- Your renewed license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, so plan ahead if you need it for travel or identification.
- You cannot change your address, name, or other personal details through the online renewal — you must visit an ALEA office in person for those changes.
Step-by-step process for online renewal
Start by visiting the ALEA website and locating the driver's license renewal section. You will need to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. ALEA will confirm that your license is may be able to access for online renewal before you proceed.
Once your identity is verified, you will review your current license information on screen. If any details are incorrect — such as your name, address, or date of birth — you cannot complete the renewal online and must visit an ALEA office instead. If everything is correct, you will proceed to the payment screen.
Enter your credit or debit card information to pay the renewal fee. After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number by email. Keep this number for your records. ALEA will then mail your renewed license to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
When you cannot renew online
If your license is suspended or revoked, the online system will reject your renewal request. You must contact ALEA or visit a driver's license office to resolve the suspension or revocation before you can renew. Suspensions are often related to unpaid traffic fines, child support obligations, or other court orders.
If your license has been expired for more than five years, you are no longer may be able to access for online renewal and must explore for a new license in person. This requires a visit to an ALEA office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.
You also cannot renew online if you need to change your name, address, or other personal information on your license. Any changes to your record require an in-person visit to an ALEA office with supporting documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or utility bill showing your new address.
What happens after you submit your online renewal
ALEA processes online renewals in the order they are received. You will receive a confirmation email when ready after payment, but processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days. During this time, ALEA verifies your information and prepares your license for printing.
Once your license is printed, it enters the mail system. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date ALEA mails it. If you do not receive your license within this timeframe, contact ALEA with your confirmation number to check the status.
Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives. You do not need to do anything with your old license — straightforward keep it until the new one comes in the mail, then destroy it or keep it for your records.
ALEA office locations if you need in-person renewal
If you are not may be able to access for online renewal or prefer to renew in person, ALEA operates driver's license offices throughout Alabama. The main office is located in Montgomery, and regional offices serve major cities including Birmingham, Huntsville, Mobile, and Tuscaloosa. Hours vary by location, but most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours.
You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the ALEA website. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only. Calling ahead is recommended to confirm hours and whether you need an appointment, especially if you are traveling a distance.
When you visit in person, bring your current driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment for the renewal fee. If you are renewing after your license has expired for more than five years, you will also need to provide proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number.
Fees and payment methods for online renewal
The online renewal fee is the same as the in-person renewal fee and depends on how long your new license will be valid. If you are under 65, your license is valid for eight years. If you are 65 or older, your license is valid for five years. ALEA accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover for online payment.
The fee is non-refundable once you have submitted your renewal request and payment has been processed. If your renewal is rejected because you are not may be able to access, ALEA will not charge your card.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get my renewed license after I submit online?
ALEA typically processes your request within 3 to 5 business days, then mails your license. Delivery takes another 7 to 10 business days. In total, expect 10 to 15 business days from submission to arrival. If you need your license sooner, you must renew in person at an ALEA office.
Can I renew online if my address has changed?
No. If your address has changed, you must renew in person at an ALEA office and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease. The online system only works if all your information is current and correct.
What if I forget my confirmation number?
Check your email for the confirmation message ALEA sent after your payment was processed. If you cannot find it, contact ALEA with your driver's license number and date of birth, and they can look up your renewal status.
Can I renew online if my license is suspended?
No. The online system will reject your renewal if your license is suspended or revoked. You must resolve the suspension first by contacting ALEA or the court that issued it, then renew either online or in person.
What should I do with my old license once the new one arrives?
You can destroy it, keep it for your records, or return it to an ALEA office. There is no requirement to return it. Most people keep it until they are certain the new one has arrived safely, then discard it.