Where to book your Alabama learner's permit appointment

Alabama's Department of Public Safety runs the learner's permit system through its Driver License Division. You schedule appointments through the ALEA Driver License website or by calling the Driver License Division directly. The website lets you pick a testing location and date; the phone line can do the same but involves waiting and manual scheduling.

You cannot walk in without an appointment at most locations. Some Driver License offices in smaller towns may accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis, but calling ahead is the only way to know whether your local office does. The Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile offices typically require appointments year-round.

The appointment system opens slots roughly 30 days in advance. If you need a test sooner than available slots show, check back daily — cancellations open up regularly, especially in the morning hours.

Key Takeaways

  • Book through the ALEA Driver License website or by calling the Driver License Division; walk-ins are not accepted at most locations.
  • You need a valid Social Security number, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of identity (birth certificate or passport) before your appointment.
  • Appointment slots open about 30 days ahead, and cancellations appear frequently, so check daily if your preferred date is full.
  • The written test covers Alabama traffic laws and road signs; you must score at least 80 percent to pass and move to the road test stage.
  • Bring all required documents in original form — photocopies and digital images are not accepted at the testing location.

Documents you must bring to your appointment

Alabama requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For identity, bring your original birth certificate, passport, or state ID. Photocopies, digital photos, and certified copies are not accepted — the examiner must see the original document.

Proof of residency must be a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and Alabama address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance bill all work. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency, even if it shows your current address.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, though the examiner can verify the number through the system if you know it by heart. If you do not have a Social Security number, you cannot obtain an Alabama learner's permit.

What happens during the written test

The written test covers Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You answer 30 multiple-choice questions on a computer at the testing location. The test is offered in English only; interpreters are not provided, so you must read and understand English to pass.

You must score at least 80 percent — that is 24 correct answers out of 30 — to pass. If you fail, you can retake the test the same day at most locations, though some offices may require you to schedule a new appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts on the same day.

The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Once you pass, you move to the road test stage, which requires a separate appointment and a licensed adult driver in the vehicle with you.

Fees and what they cover

Alabama charges a flat fee for the learner's permit, which covers the written test and the permit itself if you pass. The fee does not cover the road test — that is a separate appointment with its own cost. Both fees are due at the time of each appointment.

Payment is cash or card, depending on the location. Some Driver License offices accept only cash, so call ahead to confirm what your local office takes. If you fail the written test and retake it the same day, you do not pay again.

How long the permit lasts and what it lets you do

An Alabama learner's permit is valid for one year from the date of issue. During that year, you can drive only when a licensed adult age 21 or older is in the front passenger seat. The adult must have a valid driver's license and be physically able to exercise control over the vehicle if needed.

You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. even with a licensed adult present. You must obey all traffic laws and speed limits. Violating learner's permit restrictions can result in fines and may delay your road test approval.

If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you must retake the written test and pay the fee again. There is no grace period — the permit is void on its expiration date.

Scheduling your road test after passing the written test

Once you pass the written test, you are may be able to access to schedule a road test appointment. You must wait at least one business day before booking the road test — you cannot take both tests on the same day. The road test appointment is scheduled through the same ALEA Driver License website or by phone.

For the road test, you must bring the same documents you brought to the written test, plus proof that you have passed the written test (the examiner will have this on file, but bring your receipt to be safe). You also need a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors.

The road test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers basic driving skills: starting, stopping, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. You must pass this test to move to a full driver's license.

What to do if you cannot make your appointment

If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so through the ALEA Driver License website or by calling the Driver License Division. Canceling online is faster and does not require speaking to anyone. If you cancel at least 24 hours before your appointment, your fee is not forfeited — you can use it for a future appointment.

If you miss an appointment without canceling, you lose your fee and must pay again to book a new appointment. There is no exception for emergencies, so if something comes up, cancel as soon as you know.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule an appointment if I am under 16?

Alabama allows learner's permits starting at age 15. You must be at least 15 years old on the day of your appointment. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms — check with your local Driver License office about their specific requirements for minors.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day at most locations without scheduling a new appointment. Some offices may require you to book a new appointment slot. Either way, you pay the fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card or just know the number?

You do not need the card itself if you know your Social Security number — the examiner can verify it through the system. However, bringing the card is safer in case you misremember the number. If you do not have a number or cannot verify it, you cannot take the test.

Can someone else schedule my appointment for me?

Yes. Anyone can book an appointment on your behalf through the ALEA Driver License website or by calling the Driver License Division. You will need your name, date of birth, and Social Security number to complete the booking. You must be the one who shows up to the appointment with your documents.

What if my appointment location is too far away?

You can choose a different Driver License office when you book. Alabama has offices in most counties. If the nearest office has no available slots, check back daily for cancellations, or try booking at a location farther away if you have transportation. Some people travel 30 to 60 minutes to reach an office with sooner availability.