The fastest way to change your address on an Alabama driver's license
You can change your address online through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website without visiting a driver's license office, as long as your license is not expired and you have not changed your name. Go to alea.gov, find the Driver License section, and look for the address change option. You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and a valid email address. The change takes effect when ready online, though your physical card will still show the old address until it expires or you renew it.
If your license is expired, your name has changed, or you prefer to update in person, you must visit a driver's license office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number if this is your first time changing your address in Alabama. There is no fee for an address change.
Key Takeaways
- Online address changes through alea.gov work only if your license is current and your name has not changed.
- An in-person visit to a driver's license office is required if your license is expired, your name has changed, or you prefer to update face-to-face.
- Proof of your new address must be dated within the last 60 days and can be a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement.
- Address changes are free and take effect when ready online, though your physical card will not update until renewal.
What counts as proof of your new address
Alabama accepts several documents to prove where you live. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) is the most common choice. A lease agreement or mortgage statement also works. These documents must be dated within the last 60 days and show your name and full address. If you have just moved and do not yet have a bill in your name, a signed lease with your name and the landlord's signature is usually accepted.
Documents that do not work include bank statements, credit card statements, or letters from employers. If you are having trouble finding an acceptable document, call the driver's license office in your county before you visit. They can tell you whether a specific document will work for your situation.
Visiting a driver's license office in person
Find your county's driver's license office on the ALEA website. Office hours and locations vary by county. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have limited hours on certain days. You do not need an appointment in most counties, but calling ahead to check current wait times is a good idea.
Bring your current driver's license, your proof of address dated within the last 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). The staff will update your address on the spot. The process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes. Your physical license card will still show your old address, but your record in the system will be updated when ready.
When you need to renew instead of just changing your address
If your license is expired, you cannot use the online address change tool. You must renew your license and update your address at the same time. Renewal requires an in-person visit to a driver's license office. You will need your current or expired license, proof of your new address, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Alabama residency (a utility bill or lease works for both purposes).
Alabama driver's licenses are valid for eight years. If your license expired more than two years ago, you may need to pass a vision test or retake your written test. Call your county's driver's license office to ask what is required for your specific situation before you visit.
Updating your address if your name has also changed
If you have changed your name since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — you cannot use the online address change tool. You must visit a driver's license office in person and bring proof of both your name change and your new address.
Proof of a name change includes a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy. You will also need your current driver's license, proof of your new address dated within the last 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number. The office will issue you a new license with your updated name and address.
What happens to your old address after you change it
Once you change your address online or in person, your driver's license record in the state system is updated when ready. However, your physical card will still print your old address until you renew your license or request a replacement card. If you need the card to show your new address right away, you can request a replacement card at a driver's license office for a small fee (usually around $20, though this varies).
Your new address will also be sent to the Alabama Department of Revenue and the voter registration system. If you are registered to vote, your voter registration address will update automatically in most cases, though you may want to contact your county's election office to confirm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for my address change to show up in the system?
If you change your address online, it takes effect when ready. If you change it in person at a driver's license office, it is updated right away in the state system. Your physical card will still show your old address until you renew or request a replacement.
Can I change my address if I do not have a utility bill or lease?
Call your county's driver's license office and describe what documents you do have. They may accept a mortgage statement, property tax bill, or other proof of residency depending on your situation. Having a specific document in mind before you call will help them give you a clear answer.
Do I have to change my address on my license if I move?
Alabama law requires you to report a change of address within 10 days of moving. While there is no penalty for a minor delay, updating your address keeps your license valid for official purposes like voting or law enforcement checks.
What if I moved out of state but still have an Alabama license?
You should get a driver's license in your new state. If you are keeping your Alabama license for another reason, you can still change the address to your out-of-state address through the online tool or in person, though you will need proof of that address in the same format (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement).
Is there a fee to change my address?
No, changing your address is free whether you do it online or in person. You only pay a fee if you request a replacement card to get your new address printed on the physical card itself.