How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Renewing Your Alabama License: The Basic Path

In Alabama, you renew your driver's license through the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS). Most renewals happen by mail or online, depending on your license type and how long it has been since you last renewed. You do not need to take a new written or road test unless your license has been expired for more than five years, or unless the DPS asks you to.

The renewal process takes about two to three weeks by mail, or a few minutes online if you are may be able to access. Your new license will arrive at the address you provide. You can drive on your current license until your new one arrives, as long as you have submitted your renewal before the expiration date.

Key Takeaways

Alabama allows online renewal for most drivers whose licenses are not expired or have been expired for less than five years.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send your current license and a completed process to the DPS.
If your license expired more than five years ago, you must renew in person at a DPS office and may need to retake the written test.
Your renewal fee depends on your license type and how long your new license will be valid — typically four or eight years.
You can renew up to six months before your license expires, so you do not have to wait until the last minute.

Renewing Online Through the Alabama DPS Website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your current license is not expired or has been expired for less than five years. Visit the Alabama Department of Public Safety website and look for the driver's license renewal section. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit or debit card).

The online system will ask you to confirm your personal information, choose your renewal period (usually four or eight years), and pay the renewal fee. Once you complete the transaction, you will receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within two to three weeks. You do not need to visit an office or submit any documents by mail.

Renewing by Mail

If you prefer not to renew online, you can renew by mail. Request an process form from the Alabama DPS or read it from their website. Fill out the form completely, including your current address and any name changes since your last renewal. Sign the form and include a copy of your current driver's license (front and back).

Mail your completed process and license copy to the address listed on the form, along with your renewal fee. You can pay by check or money order — do not send cash. The DPS will process your renewal and mail your new license to you within two to three weeks. Keep your confirmation number or receipt in case you need to track your renewal.

Renewing in Person at a DPS Office

You must renew in person if your license has been expired for more than five years. You will also need to visit an office in person if you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), if you want to change your address or name, or if the DPS requests additional documents or a new photo.

Bring your current driver's license, proof of Alabama residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If your name has changed, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DPS office will take a new photo, process your renewal, and issue your new license on the spot or mail it to you, depending on the office location.

What Happens If Your License Has Expired for More Than Five Years

If your Alabama license expired more than five years ago, you cannot renew it through the standard process. Instead, you must explore for a new license as if you were a first-time driver. This means you will need to visit a DPS office in person, pass the written test, and pass the road test.

Bring the same documents you would bring for an in-person renewal: your current (expired) license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. You will also need to provide proof of your Social Security number and pass a vision screening. The DPS will schedule your written and road tests. Once you pass both, you will receive your new license.

Renewal Fees and License Validity Periods

Alabama renewal fees vary depending on your license type and how long you want your new license to be valid. A standard driver's license can be renewed for four years or eight years. The fee for a four-year renewal is typically lower than the fee for an eight-year renewal. Commercial driver's licenses have different fees and validity periods.

You can pay your renewal fee by credit card or debit card if you renew online, or by check or money order if you renew by mail. If you renew in person, the DPS office will accept cash, check, or card, depending on the location. Ask the DPS about the exact fee for your license type before you submit your renewal.

When to Renew and What to Bring

You can renew your Alabama license up to six months before it expires. This gives you plenty of time to complete the process before your current license becomes invalid. If you wait until after your license expires, you can still renew, but you may face additional requirements or fees.

For online or mail renewal, you only need your current license and payment information. For in-person renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return). If your name or address has changed, bring the document that shows the change. Check the Alabama DPS website for a complete list of acceptable documents before you visit an office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Alabama license if I have moved out of state?

No. You must be an Alabama resident to renew an Alabama license. If you have moved to another state, you should explore for a license in your new state. You can renew online or by mail only if your current address on file is still in Alabama.

What if my name has changed since my last renewal?

If you are renewing by mail or online, you can update your name during the renewal process. If you are renewing in person, bring a certified copy of the document showing the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DPS will update your name on your new license.

How long does it take to receive my new license after I renew?

By mail or online, your new license typically arrives within two to three weeks. If you renew in person at a DPS office, you may receive your license on the spot or it may be mailed to you, depending on the office. Ask the office staff when you visit.

Can I drive while my renewal is being processed?

Yes. You can drive on your current license until it expires, as long as you have submitted your renewal before the expiration date. Once your new license arrives, your old license is no longer valid.

What if I lose my renewal confirmation or receipt?

Keep your confirmation number in a safe place. If you lose it, you can contact the Alabama DPS with your driver's license number and they can look up your renewal status. You can also visit a DPS office in person to check on your renewal.

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.