What you need to do to replace an Alabama driver's license

To replace a lost or stolen Alabama driver's license, you visit your local Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) office in person, bring specific documents, and pay a replacement fee. Alabama does not offer online or mail-in replacement for a lost license — you must appear at an office location. The process typically takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot use a kiosk or third-party service for this. The DPS office is the only place that handles lost license replacement in Alabama.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DPS office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number to replace a lost Alabama driver's license.
  • The replacement fee is $20.50 for a standard license, and you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and a permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can find your nearest DPS office and check its hours on the Alabama DPS website before you go.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to report the theft to local police and consider placing a fraud alert with the credit bureaus, though this is separate from the replacement process.

Documents and identification you need to bring

Bring one current, valid form of photo identification. This can be a passport, a military ID, a state ID card, or an employee ID with your photo. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents that show your name and date of birth, such as a birth certificate and a Social Security card.

You also need to prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you cannot locate any of these, call your local DPS office before you go — they can tell you what other documents they will accept.

Bring your current address proof if you have moved since your last license was issued. A utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days works. If you live at the same address as your license shows, you do not need this.

The replacement fee and what it covers

The replacement fee for a standard Alabama driver's license is $20.50. This is a one-time fee for the replacement card itself. You pay this fee at the DPS office when you submit your documents.

If your license has not yet expired, you are straightforward replacing the lost card with a new one that carries the same expiration date. If your license has already expired, you will need to renew it instead of replace it, which costs more and requires a vision test. Check your license expiration date before you go, or call ahead to confirm which process applies to you.

Finding your nearest DPS office and hours

Alabama has DPS offices in most counties. You can search for the office closest to you on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. The site lists the address, phone number, and hours for each location.

Hours vary by office. Some are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, while others have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Call ahead or check the website before you go, because some offices require you to take a number or arrive early due to wait times. A few offices are closed on certain days or have limited hours, so confirming in advance saves a trip.

What happens when you arrive at the DPS office

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and provide your documents. A staff member will review them to confirm you have everything needed. They will take your photo for the new license and ask you to sign a form confirming the information on your replacement card.

You will then pay the $20.50 fee. The office will give you a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed. Keep this temporary license with you — it is your proof of a valid license until the permanent card arrives.

The permanent card is mailed to the address on file with your license. If you have moved and updated your address at the office, it will be mailed to your new address. The card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during high-volume periods.

If your license was stolen and you want to report it

Reporting a stolen license to police is optional but can protect you if someone tries to use it fraudulently. File a report with your local police department or sheriff's office. You do not need a police report to replace the license itself, but having one on file can help if the stolen license is used for identity theft later.

You may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This is a separate step from replacing your license and is done directly with the credit bureaus, not through the DPS.

Using your temporary license while you wait for the permanent card

Your temporary paper license is valid for driving, voting, and other purposes that require a license. You can use it at banks, retailers, and other places that ask for ID, though some businesses may be hesitant to accept a paper license. If you need to travel by air, a temporary license is not accepted — you will need a passport or other federal ID.

Keep the temporary license in a safe place. If you lose it before the permanent card arrives, you will need to return to the DPS office and request another temporary license, which may involve another fee. Once your permanent card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DPS office to replace a lost license. The office will not issue a replacement card or temporary license without you present. Plan to visit during hours that work for your schedule.

What if I don't have a Social Security card or tax documents?

Call your local DPS office before you go. They can tell you what other documents prove your Social Security number. Some offices accept a letter from the Social Security Administration, a hospital birth record, or other documents. Asking ahead prevents a wasted trip.

How long does the permanent card take to arrive?

Most permanent cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days. During busy periods or around holidays, it can take longer. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DPS office where you applied and provide your temporary license number.

Do I need to renew my license if it's expired?

If your license has expired, you cannot straightforward replace it — you must renew it instead. Renewal costs more than replacement and requires a vision test. Ask the DPS staff when you call or arrive whether your license is still valid or if renewal is needed.

What if I moved since my last license was issued?

Bring proof of your current address, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. The DPS will update your address on the replacement card. If you do not have address proof, ask the office what documents they will accept.