How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Where and how to renew your Alabama license

You can renew your Alabama driver's license in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office, or online through the state's website if you meet certain conditions. The in-person route works for nearly everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired by more than five years, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.

To renew in person, visit a Driver License office with your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099). You'll take a new photo and pay the renewal fee. The office will issue your new license on the spot or mail it within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office location.

To renew online, go to the Alabama DPS website, log in with your driver's license number and date of birth, answer security questions, and pay the fee by credit or debit card. You'll receive your renewed license by mail within 10 to 14 business days. Online renewal is not available if your license expired more than five years ago—in that case, you must renew in person.

Key Takeaways

In-person renewal at any Alabama DPS Driver License office requires your current license, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and proof of Social Security number.
Online renewal through the Alabama DPS website takes 10 to 14 business days and costs the same as in-person renewal, but only works if your license expired within the last five years and has no medical restrictions.
You can find your nearest Driver License office and check wait times on the Alabama DPS website before you go.
Your renewed license is valid for eight years from the date of issue, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.

Renewal fees and what they cover

Alabama charges a flat renewal fee for an eight-year license. The exact amount depends on whether you renew in person or online—both cost the same. You pay by cash, check, or card at an in-person office; online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only.

The fee covers the new license card itself and the eight-year validity period. It does not cover a replacement if you lose the card after you receive it, a duplicate if you want a second copy, or a corrected license if your name or address changes. Those are separate transactions with their own fees.

Timeline and when to renew

You can renew your Alabama license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early is useful if you travel or need a fresh card before your current one becomes worn. Your new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, not from the date your old one expired.

If you renew in person, you leave with your new license the same day at most offices, though some locations mail licenses instead—the DPS website shows which offices do which. If you renew online, expect your license to arrive by mail within 10 to 14 business days. Plan ahead if you need the license by a specific date.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew, but you must do so in person. Expired licenses cannot be renewed online, and you may face additional requirements if your license has been expired for more than five years.

Changing your address or name during renewal

If your address has changed since your last license was issued, you must renew in person and bring proof of your new address. Online renewal does not allow address changes. Acceptable proof includes a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.

If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Online renewal cannot process name changes.

Finding a Driver License office and checking wait times

Alabama DPS operates Driver License offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you, check its hours, and see current wait times on the Alabama DPS website. Wait times vary widely by location and time of day; offices in rural areas often have shorter waits than those in cities.

Some offices accept walk-ins only; others use an appointment system. Check your local office's policy before you go. If your office uses appointments, you can book one on the DPS website or by phone. Walk-in offices typically serve customers on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early in the morning usually means a shorter wait.

What happens if your license is expired by more than five years

If your Alabama license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it online. You must visit a Driver License office in person. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number.

Some offices may require an eye exam or a new written test if your license has been expired for a very long time, though this is not standard practice. Call your local office ahead of time to ask whether any additional requirements explore to your situation.

Renewing a commercial driver's license (CDL)

Commercial driver's licenses in Alabama follow different renewal rules than regular licenses. CDLs must be renewed in person at a Driver License office; online renewal is not available. You'll need your current CDL, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a current medical certificate from a certified medical examiner.

CDL renewal also requires a written test covering the rules of the road and any endorsements on your license (hazmat, tanker, passenger, etc.). The test is administered at the Driver License office during your renewal appointment. Plan for a longer visit than a standard license renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I don't have a Social Security number?

You need proof of your Social Security number to renew. If you don't have a Social Security card, you can use a W-2, 1099, or other tax document that shows your number. If you have no Social Security number at all, contact your local Driver License office to ask about alternative documents.

What if I lost my license and need to renew it?

You can renew an expired license in person even if you don't have the physical card. Bring your proof of residency and Social Security number. The office will issue a new license. If your license is not yet expired but you lost the card, that's a replacement, not a renewal, and requires a separate process and fee.

Do I need an appointment to renew in person?

It depends on your local office. Some Alabama Driver License offices accept walk-ins; others require appointments. Check the DPS website for your office's policy. If appointments are required and you walk in without one, you may be turned away or asked to book a time and come back.

How long is my renewed license valid?

Your renewed Alabama driver's license is valid for eight years from the date you renew it. You can renew again up to one year before that date expires.

Can I renew online if I have a medical restriction on my license?

No. Online renewal is not available if your license has any medical restrictions or conditions noted on it. You must renew in person at a Driver License office.

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.