How to Change Your Address on an Alabama Driver's License

You can change your Alabama driver's license address online, by mail, or in person at a DMV office

Alabama allows you to update your address without renewing your license. The fastest method is online through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website if you have a valid email and your current license number. If you prefer not to go online, you can mail a form to ALEA or visit a Driver License Examiner's Office in person. The address change itself costs nothing — there is no fee.

You do not need to take a new photo or pass a vision test unless your license is expiring soon or you are renewing for other reasons. The address change takes effect when ready online or within one to two weeks by mail, depending on processing time.

Key Takeaways

The online method through ALEA's website is the fastest option and requires only your license number and email address.
If you mail your change, you will need to complete Form DL-44 and include a copy of your current license and proof of your new address.
Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days.
Visiting a Driver License Examiner's Office in person requires the same documents as the mail method but is processed the same day.
There is no fee for an address change, and your license remains valid during the update.

Changing your address online through ALEA

Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website and look for the driver license services section. You will need your current Alabama driver's license number, your email address, and access to the email account you provide. The system will ask you to enter your new address and confirm your identity using information from your license record.

Once you submit the change online, you should receive a confirmation email. Your address will update in the system right away, though it may take a few days for the change to appear in all state databases. You do not need to do anything else — your physical license remains valid with the old address printed on it until you renew.

Mailing your address change to ALEA

read or request Form DL-44 (process for Alabama Driver's License) from the ALEA website or by calling your local Driver License Examiner's Office. You do not need to fill out the entire form — write "Address Change Only" at the top and complete only the address section. Include a photocopy of your current license (front and back) and proof of your new address.

Mail the form and documents to the ALEA address listed on their website. Processing typically takes one to two weeks. You will not receive a new license card in the mail — your current license remains valid. If you want to verify the change went through, you can call your local examiner's office after two weeks.

What counts as proof of your new address

ALEA accepts documents dated within the last 60 days that show your name and new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail all work. Some offices also accept bank statements or insurance documents if they show your current address.

If you do not have a document in your name at your new address yet, call your local Driver License Examiner's Office before you mail anything. They can tell you what alternative documents they will accept, such as a signed letter from a landlord or a recent lease.

Visiting a Driver License Examiner's Office in person

Find your nearest office on the ALEA website by entering your county. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (dated within 60 days), and any other ID if you have it. You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations ask you to check in online first — the ALEA website will tell you if yours does.

Tell the staff member you are there for an address change only. They will update your record on the spot, and you will walk out with your license unchanged. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes depending on how busy the office is.

What happens to your physical license card

Your current license card keeps the old address printed on it. You do not receive a new card just for changing your address. The address in the state system updates, and that is what law enforcement and other agencies see when they scan or look up your license. Your old card remains valid for identification and driving.

If you want a card with your new address printed on it, you will need to renew your license. Renewals in Alabama happen every four or eight years depending on your age. When you renew, you can request a new card with your current address at that time.

Changing your address if your license is suspended or expired

You can still change your address if your license is suspended. Use the same method — online, mail, or in person — and the address will update in the system. However, you cannot drive legally until the suspension is lifted. Changing your address does not affect the suspension status.

If your license is expired, you can change the address online or by mail, but you cannot use an expired license for identification or driving. You will need to renew your license separately to restore your driving privileges. Contact ALEA or your local examiner's office if you are unsure whether your license is expired or suspended.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to change my address online?

The online change is when ready in the system, though it may take a few days to show up everywhere. If you need proof of the change right away, print your confirmation email or visit a Driver License Examiner's Office to get a written verification.

Do I have to change my address if I move?

Alabama law requires you to notify ALEA of a change of address within a reasonable time after you move. There is no specific important date stated in the law, but updating it within 30 days is a safe practice. Driving with an outdated address can cause problems if you are stopped or need to renew.

Can I change my address if I do not have a utility bill or lease?

Call your local Driver License Examiner's Office and explain what documents you do have. They may accept a bank statement, insurance bill, government mail, or a signed letter from a landlord. Each office has some flexibility, so ask before you make a trip or mail anything.

What if I moved out of state — do I still need to update my Alabama address?

If you have moved out of state, you should get a driver's license from your new state instead of updating your Alabama address. Once you have a license in your new state, you can let your Alabama license expire or request it be cancelled. Contact your new state's DMV for their process.

Will changing my address affect my insurance or vehicle registration?

Your insurance company and the Alabama Department of Revenue keep separate records from your driver's license. You will need to notify them separately of your address change. Contact your insurance agent and the DMV's vehicle registration section to update those records.

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.