Alabama replaces lost or damaged licenses through the Department of Public Safety

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged driver's license in Alabama, you must visit a Department of Public Safety (DPS) driver license office in person. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The state issues a replacement license with the same number as your original, valid for the same expiration date, unless you request a new photo or address change at the time of replacement.

Alabama charges a replacement fee of $20.50 for a standard driver's license. If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first — some insurance companies and identity theft protection services require this documentation. The replacement process itself typically takes 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and you receive your new license the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Public Safety driver license office in person; Alabama does not offer mail or online replacement.
  • The replacement fee is $20.50, and you receive your new license the same day you explore.
  • Bring a valid form of identification, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency to complete the replacement.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report and bring the report number to the DPS office.
  • Your replacement license keeps the same number and expiration date as your original unless you request changes.

What documents you need to bring

Alabama requires three categories of documents for a replacement license. First, bring a valid form of identification — this can be a passport, military ID, state ID card, or another government-issued photo ID. Second, bring proof of your Social Security number, which can be a Social Security card, W-2 form, tax return, or 1099 form. Third, bring proof of your current Alabama address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If your name has changed since your original license was issued, bring documentation of that change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must accompany you and bring their own valid identification.

Finding and visiting a Department of Public Safety office

Alabama operates driver license offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the Department of Public Safety website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 334-242-4437. Many offices operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Hours vary by location, so confirm the hours of your nearest office before you go.

Walk-in service is available at most offices, but wait times can be long during peak hours — typically mid-morning and early afternoon on weekdays. Some offices offer online appointment scheduling through the DPS website, which can reduce your wait time significantly. If your local office does not offer appointments, arriving early in the morning or on a less busy day (Tuesday through Thursday) usually means a shorter wait.

What happens if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost, file a police report with your local law enforcement agency before or after visiting the DPS office. Bring the police report number with you when you explore for the replacement. This documentation protects you if someone attempts to use your stolen license for fraud or other purposes.

You should also consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — if you are concerned about identity theft. A fraud alert notifies creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This step is separate from the license replacement process but may be worth taking if your license was stolen along with other personal information.

Replacing a license that is damaged or unreadable

If your license is damaged but still readable, you can visit a DPS office and request a replacement. Damage that makes the license unreadable — such as a cracked barcode, faded photo, or water damage — qualifies for replacement at the standard $20.50 fee. Bring your damaged license with you to the office so the staff can document the damage and issue the replacement.

If your license is so damaged that you cannot locate it, treat it as a lost license and bring the documents listed above. The DPS staff will note in their system that the original license was damaged or lost, and you will receive a replacement with the same number and expiration date.

Requesting a new photo or address change during replacement

When you replace your license, you have the option to request a new photo. This is useful if you want an updated photo or if your appearance has changed significantly since your original license was issued. There is no additional fee for a new photo taken at the time of replacement. You can also update your address during the replacement process without paying an extra fee.

If you do not request a new photo, your replacement license will use the photo from your original license. If you do not update your address, the replacement will show your old address. Make these requests clear to the DPS staff when you submit your replacement process so they process your request correctly.

Timeline and what to expect after replacement

You receive your replacement license on the same day you visit the DPS office. The staff will verify your documents, take a new photo if you request one, process the fee, and issue your new license before you leave. There is no waiting period or mail delivery — the license is ready when ready.

Your replacement license is valid until the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in two years, your replacement license will also expire in two years from the date of issue. When that expiration date approaches, you will need to renew your license through the standard renewal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license at any Department of Public Safety office in Alabama?

Yes, you can visit any DPS driver license office in the state, not just the one in your county. If you are traveling or find it more convenient to visit an office in a different area, you can do so. Bring the same documents regardless of which office you visit.

What if I don't have a Social Security card or other proof of my Social Security number?

You must bring one of the accepted forms of proof — a Social Security card, W-2, tax return, or 1099. If you do not have any of these, contact the DPS office before your visit to ask about alternative documentation they may accept in your specific situation.

Do I need to bring my old license if it's lost?

No, you do not need to bring your old license if it is lost. Bring your other identification documents instead. The DPS system will have a record of your original license, and staff can issue a replacement based on that record and your current documents.

How much does a replacement license cost if I also want a new photo?

The replacement fee remains $20.50 whether or not you request a new photo. There is no additional charge for taking a new photo at the time of replacement.

What if I moved to Alabama from another state and my old license is lost?

You will need to obtain a new Alabama license rather than a replacement. This requires the same documents — valid ID, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency — but you will receive a new license number and expiration date. Visit a DPS office to start the process.