How to Renew Your Alabama Driver's License

Where to Renew and What You'll Need

You can renew your Alabama driver's license in person at any Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver License office, or by mail if you meet certain conditions. In-person renewal takes about 30 minutes on average. Mail renewal is slower but works if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your name and address match your current records.

For in-person renewal, bring your current Alabama driver's license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will also need to pass a vision test at the office.

For mail renewal, read the DL-44 form from the Alabama DPS website, complete it, and mail it with a copy of your current license and proof of residency to the address listed on the form. Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after the DPS receives your packet.

Key Takeaways

In-person renewal at a DPS Driver License office requires your current license, proof of residency, and Social Security documentation, and takes about 30 minutes.
Mail renewal is available only if your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and your name and address have not changed.
Your Alabama driver's license is valid for four years from the date of issue, and you can renew it up to six months before expiration.
The renewal fee varies depending on the type of license and whether you renew in person or by mail; check the DPS website for current rates.
If you renew by mail and your packet is incomplete or illegible, the DPS will return it and delay your renewal by several weeks.

Renewal Timing and Expiration Dates

Your Alabama driver's license expires four years from the date it was issued. You can renew your license up to six months before the expiration date printed on the front. Renewing early does not change your expiration date — your new license will expire four years from the date you renew, not from the original expiration date.

If your license has already expired, you can still renew it by mail or in person, but you cannot legally drive until your new license arrives. If your license expired more than five years ago, you may be required to take the written knowledge test and driving test again, depending on your age and the reason for the lapse. Contact your local DPS office to confirm what tests you will need.

In-Person Renewal at a DPS Office

Find your nearest Alabama DPS Driver License office on the DPS website. Most offices operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but hours vary by location. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Check your local office's page before you go.

Bring all required documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of residency or Social Security documentation. Arrive with time to spare, as wait times can be 30 minutes to over an hour during peak times (typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays). You will take a new photo and pass a vision screening at the office. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

If you wear corrective lenses, bring your glasses or contacts to the vision test. If you fail the vision test, you will not be able to renew that day and will need to see an eye care professional first. Bring documentation of any medical conditions that affect your driving, such as a letter from your doctor, if you have restrictions on your current license.

Mail Renewal Process and Restrictions

Mail renewal is the slower option but works if you meet all the conditions: your license is not suspended or revoked, you have no medical restrictions or special endorsements, your name matches your Social Security record, and your address is current. If any of these do not explore to you, you must renew in person.

read the DL-44 process for Driver License form from the Alabama DPS website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with a photocopy of your current license and a copy of your proof of residency to the address shown on the form. Use certified mail or a tracked service so you can confirm delivery. The DPS will process your renewal and mail your new license to you within 7 to 10 business days of receipt.

If your mailed packet is missing documents, illegible, or incomplete, the DPS will return it to you without processing. This delay can add two to three weeks to your renewal time. Double-check that your form is signed, all fields are filled, and your documents are clear copies before you mail.

Renewal Fees and Payment Methods

The renewal fee for a standard four-year Alabama driver's license varies based on your age and the type of license. Check the current fee schedule on the Alabama DPS website, as rates change periodically. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices. Mail renewal requires a check or money order made payable to the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

If you renew by mail and your check is returned for insufficient funds or other reasons, your renewal will not be processed and your packet will be returned. Do not send cash by mail. If you are renewing in person and do not have the exact fee, most offices can provide change, but it is faster to bring the correct amount.

What Happens If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked

If your Alabama driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it by mail and in-person renewal will be denied. You must first contact the Alabama DPS to resolve the suspension or revocation. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or accumulation of points from traffic violations.

Contact the Alabama DPS Driver License Division by phone or visit an office in person to find out why your license is suspended and what steps you must take to restore it. You may need to pay fines, complete a defensive driving course, or wait out a suspension period. Only after the suspension is lifted can you renew your license through the normal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Alabama does not currently offer online driver's license renewal. You must renew either in person at a DPS Driver License office or by mail. In-person renewal is faster and guarantees your documents are accepted on the spot.

What if I move to a different address before my license expires?

You can update your address at any DPS Driver License office without renewing your license. Bring your current license and proof of your new address. If you are renewing soon anyway, you can update your address as part of the renewal process.

Do I need a new photo every time I renew?

Yes, a new photo is required at each renewal. If you renew in person, you will have your photo taken at the office. If you renew by mail, your photo from your current license will be used, so your new license will look similar to your current one.

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

After in-person or mail renewal, your new license is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the DPS office when you renew in person.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing your name change. Mail renewal is not available when your name differs from your current license. Bring the original document or a certified copy.

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.