Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Alabama driver's license in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) 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.
For an in-person renewal, bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current Alabama address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office.
If you renew online, you'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. You won't need to visit an office or provide documents, but you will receive a temporary digital license by email while your physical card is mailed to you.
Key Takeaways
- Alabama lets you renew online if your license is not expired and has no medical restrictions, but most people renew in person at a DPS office.
- Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address to any DPS office.
- Your Alabama driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue, so you'll know when renewal is due by checking the expiration date on the front.
- DPS offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and wait times vary by location and time of day.
- Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your renewal.
How long your license lasts and when to renew
An Alabama driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license, so you can check it anytime. You can renew your license up to six months before it expires, which gives you time to plan ahead and avoid the rush near the expiration date.
If your license has already expired, you must renew in person at a DPS office—the online option is not available for expired licenses. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Alabama, even if you have a valid renewal process in progress.
Finding a DPS office near you and what to expect
The Alabama Department of Public Safety operates driver's license offices in every county. You can find the office nearest you and its hours on the DPS website by entering your county name. Most offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have different hours, so check before you go.
Wait times vary depending on the time of day and the office location. Early mornings and mid-week visits tend to be less crowded than afternoons and Fridays. Some offices allow you to check the current wait time online before you arrive. Bring all your documents with you; if anything is missing, you'll have to return another day.
The renewal process at the office takes about 15 to 30 minutes once you're called. You'll have your vision tested, answer questions about your medical history, and have your photo taken. You'll pay the renewal fee at the counter before you leave.
Renewal fees and what you'll pay
The fee for renewing an eight-year Alabama driver's license is $28.50. If you need a Real ID-compliant license (required for federal purposes like boarding a domestic flight or entering a federal building), the fee is $33.50. You can pay by cash, check, or debit card at the DPS office; credit cards are not accepted.
If you're renewing online, you'll pay the same fee through the website using a debit card or electronic check. The fee is charged when you submit your renewal, not when your physical license arrives.
Real ID requirements and whether you need one
A Real ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you'll need a Real ID or another federally accepted form of ID to board a domestic flight or enter certain federal buildings. A passport, military ID, or passport card also counts as federally accepted ID.
If you want a Real ID when you renew, tell the DPS employee at the office or select that option during online renewal. You'll need to bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate along with your other documents. The Real ID costs $5 more than a standard license.
You don't have to get a Real ID when you renew—you can keep your standard license and use a passport for federal purposes instead. The choice is yours.
What happens if your license was suspended or revoked
If your Alabama driver's license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You'll need to contact the Alabama Department of Public Safety or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps are required to restore your driving privileges.
Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. Each situation has different requirements for reinstatement. Once your suspension is cleared, you can renew your license through the normal process.
Your new license and what to do with the old one
Your new physical driver's license will be mailed to the address you provided during renewal within 7 to 10 business days. If you renewed online, you'll receive a temporary digital license by email that you can use when ready on your phone while you wait for the physical card.
Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one by cutting it in half or shredding it. You don't need to return it to the DPS. If your new license doesn't arrive within 14 days, contact the DPS office where you renewed to report it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license if I'm out of state?
No, you must renew in person at an Alabama DPS office. If you've moved out of state, you'll need to return to Alabama or contact the DPS to discuss your options. Some states have reciprocal agreements, but Alabama requires in-person renewal for most situations.
What if my name changed since my last license?
Bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change along with your other renewal documents. The DPS will update your name on your new license at no extra cost.
Do I need a vision test to renew online?
No, online renewal skips the vision test. If you have concerns about your vision or your medical restrictions have changed, renew in person so the DPS can evaluate you and update your license accordingly.
What if I lost my current license before renewal?
You'll need to report it lost and get a replacement before you can renew. Contact your local DPS office to file a lost license report and pay the replacement fee, then you can renew your license through the normal process.
Can someone else renew my license for me?
No, you must renew in person or online yourself. The DPS requires your signature and photo for renewal. If you're unable to visit an office due to a disability, contact the DPS to ask about accommodations or alternative options.