How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need before you start

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 almost everyone; the online route is faster but only available if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed since your last renewal.

Before you go to an office or start an online renewal, gather these documents: your current Alabama driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that proves it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing after your license has already expired, you must renew in person; you cannot use the online option.

Key Takeaways

Alabama offers both online renewal (for unexpired licenses with no address changes or medical restrictions) and in-person renewal at any DPS Driver License office.
You will need your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address before you start the process.
The renewal fee varies depending on how long your new license is valid for — typically $20 to $30 for a standard renewal.
In-person renewals usually take 15 to 30 minutes at the office, and your new license arrives by mail within two to three weeks.
If you renew online, the process takes about 10 minutes, and your new license ships within five to seven business days.

Renewing online through Alabama's website

Go to the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and select the online driver's license renewal option. You will enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you are may be able to access — if your license is expired, you have medical restrictions, or your address has changed, you will be directed to renew in person instead.

If you are may be able to access, you will review your current information and confirm or update it. You cannot change your address online; if your address needs to change, you must renew in person. Once you confirm your details, you will pay the renewal fee by credit card or debit card. After payment, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, and it typically arrives within five to seven business days.

Renewing in person at a DPS office

Find the DPS Driver License office nearest you on the Alabama Department of Public Safety website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours on certain days. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices now offer appointment scheduling online, which can reduce your wait time.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and any documents showing a name change if applicable. Hand these to the clerk at the counter. They will verify your information, take a new photo, and collect the renewal fee. The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you. Your new license typically arrives within two to three weeks.

Understanding the renewal fee and license validity period

Alabama driver's licenses are valid for different lengths of time depending on your age and the type of license you hold. A standard Class D license for someone under 65 is typically valid for eight years. The renewal fee is usually $20 for a four-year renewal or $30 for an eight-year renewal, though the exact amount can vary. You will see the fee amount before you complete payment, whether you are renewing online or in person.

If you are 65 or older, your license may be valid for a shorter period, and the fee may be lower. Ask the clerk at the office or check the website for the exact fee that applies to your situation. Payment is by cash, check, or card at in-person offices; online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only.

What to do if your license is expired or you cannot renew online

If your license has already expired, you cannot renew online — you must go to a DPS Driver License office in person. Bring the same documents you would for a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and any name-change documents. The process is the same as a regular renewal, and the fee is the same.

If your address has changed since your last license was issued, you must renew in person so the office can update your address on file. Bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The clerk will update your address during the renewal process, and your new license will be mailed to your new address.

After your renewal is complete

If you renewed in person, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Use this as your proof of a valid license while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail. Do not throw away your old license until your new one arrives; keep both until the new one is in your hands.

If you renewed online, you will receive a confirmation number via email. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. If your new license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety with your confirmation number to check the status. You can drive on your old license until your new one arrives, as long as your old license has not yet expired.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets or fines?

Alabama may suspend your driving privileges if you have unpaid fines or tickets. Contact the court or the Alabama Department of Public Safety before attempting to renew to find out whether your privileges are suspended. If they are, you will need to resolve the outstanding fines before you can renew.

What if I lost my Social Security card and don't have another proof of my Social Security number?

You can use a W-2 form, 1099 form, or other tax document that shows your Social Security number. If you do not have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter showing your number, or ask the DPS office what other documents they will accept.

Do I need to take a new photo and vision test when I renew?

Yes, you will have a new photo taken during renewal, whether you renew in person or online. If you renew in person, the office will also conduct a vision screening. If you renew online, you will not have a vision test, so make sure your vision is safe for driving before you renew.

Can someone else renew my license for me?

No, you must renew your license yourself. You cannot authorize someone else to renew it on your behalf. You must appear in person at a DPS office or complete the online renewal yourself using your own information and identity verification.

What if my name has changed since my last renewal?

Bring the document that proves your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order — along with your other renewal documents. The clerk will update your name on your new license. If you are renewing online and your name has changed, you will need to renew in person instead.

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.