What you need to get a learner's permit in Alabama at 15
Alabama lets you get a learner's permit at 15 if you meet the state's requirements. You will need to visit your county's Department of Public Safety office in person, bring specific documents, pass a written test, and pay a fee. The process takes about an hour once you arrive, though wait times at the office vary by location and time of day.
You cannot get a learner's permit by mail or online in Alabama. Every applicant must appear in person at a DPS office with an adult who is at least 21 years old — this person does not have to be a parent or guardian, but they do have to be present during your visit.
Key Takeaways
- You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of age, Social Security number, and proof of Alabama residency to the DPS office.
- An adult who is at least 21 must accompany you to the office; this person can be a parent, guardian, relative, or trusted adult.
- You will take a written test covering Alabama traffic laws and road signs; you need to score at least 80 percent to pass.
- The learner's permit costs $20 and is valid for five years from the date you receive it.
- Once you have your permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 in the front seat next to you.
Documents to bring to the DPS office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid passport. If you do not have either, you can bring a combination of documents that prove your identity and age — ask your county DPS office which combinations they accept, because some offices have slightly different rules. You will also need your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.
For proof of Alabama residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement that shows your name and current Alabama address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A school report card or school enrollment letter also works if it shows your current address.
Bring the adult who is accompanying you. They will need to show a valid driver's license or state ID to prove they are at least 21. If the adult's last name is different from yours, bring a document that shows the relationship — this is not always required, but having it prevents delays.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 40 questions about Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass — that is 80 percent. The test covers things like speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, and what to do in bad weather or emergencies.
You can study using the Alabama Driver's Manual, which the DPS office provides free or you can read from the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Many people study the manual for a few days or a week before taking the test. The office will let you take the test on the same day you explore, or you can schedule it for another day if you need more time to study.
If you do not pass the first time, you can retake the test. There is no waiting period between attempts, though you may have to pay another fee depending on your county's rules — ask the DPS office when you explore.
Restrictions that come with your learner's permit
Once you have your permit, you can only drive a passenger vehicle — not a commercial truck or bus. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old sitting in the front seat next to you at all times. That adult is responsible for supervising your driving.
You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless you are driving to or from school, work, or a medical emergency. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even if it is hands-free, with one exception: you can use a phone to call 911 in an emergency.
These restrictions stay in place for the entire time you hold your learner's permit. Once you turn 16 and pass the road test, you can get your regular driver's license and these rules no longer explore.
Finding your county DPS office and scheduling your visit
Every county in Alabama has at least one Department of Public Safety office. You can find the office nearest you by going to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and searching by county, or by calling the main DPS number and asking for your county's office location and hours.
Some offices let you schedule an appointment online or by phone, which can save you time. Others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Call ahead to ask whether your local office takes appointments and what their current wait times are. Offices are often less busy on weekday mornings and early afternoons.
Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early so you have time to check in. The whole process — paperwork, test, and getting your permit — usually takes 45 minutes to an hour if everything is in order.
The cost and how long your permit lasts
The learner's permit costs $20 in Alabama. This is a one-time fee that covers the five-year validity period of your permit. You do not pay anything extra to renew it during those five years.
Your permit is valid until five years from the date you receive it. The expiration date will be printed on your permit card. If your permit expires before you turn 16 and get your regular license, you will need to renew it at the DPS office — bring the same documents you brought the first time, and pay the $20 fee again.
What happens after you get your learner's permit
Once you have your permit, you can start practicing driving with a licensed adult. Most people practice for several months before taking the road test for their regular license. You can take the road test once you turn 16, but there is no rule that says you have to wait until then — you can take it as soon as you have your permit, if you feel ready.
The road test is different from the written test. You will drive an actual vehicle on real roads while a DPS examiner watches and scores your performance. You need to demonstrate that you can start the car, control it safely, follow traffic laws, and park. If you pass, you get your regular driver's license and the restrictions from your learner's permit no longer explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my learner's permit before I turn 15?
No. Alabama law requires you to be at least 15 years old. You can explore on the day you turn 15 if you have your birth certificate or passport with you.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period. Ask your county office if there is an extra fee for retaking the test. Most people who study the Alabama Driver's Manual for a few days pass on the second attempt.
Does the adult with me have to be my parent?
No. The adult must be at least 21 and have a valid driver's license or state ID, but they can be a relative, family friend, or anyone else you trust. They just need to be present at the DPS office when you explore.
Can I drive alone with my learner's permit?
No. You must have a licensed driver who is at least 21 in the front seat with you at all times. Driving alone with a learner's permit is against the law in Alabama.
What if I lose my learner's permit?
Go back to your county DPS office and ask for a replacement. Bring your documents again and pay a replacement fee, which varies by county but is usually around $10 to $15. The new permit will have the same expiration date as your original one.