How to Renew Your Alabama Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Alabama license through AL DPS. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 4 years

Standard fee $36

Renew early Up to 180 days (6 months) before expiration

After expiration 60 days after expiration for renewal purposes; renewal without examination allowed within 3 years of expiration

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

Alabama residents with a current photo/signature on file (issued within the last four years) may renew online. First-time STAR ID (REAL ID) applicants must apply in person at an ALEA Driver License Exam Office.

Start your online renewal at AL DPS →

Step 2 — Gather your documents

For an in-person renewal, bring:

Your current Alabama driver license.
Proof of identity (passport, certified birth certificate).
Proof of Alabama residency — utility bill, lease, or bank statement showing your current address (most states require two documents).
Social Security card or W-2.
Payment for the renewal fee (cash, check, or card — varies by office).

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

AL DPS charges $36 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 4 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Required at in-person renewal; not required for online renewal. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new license

You'll get a temporary paper license at the DMV that's valid for 30-60 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail in 7-14 business days. If your renewal was online, expect 10-21 days mailing time.

REAL ID upgrade in Alabama

STAR ID (Alabama's REAL ID) costs the same $36.25 as a standard license, has an 8-year validity cycle, and must be obtained in person at an ALEA exam office with proof of identity, SSN, and two proofs of residency.

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Walk-in waits can be 2-4 hours. Book an appointment online at any of Alabama's DMV offices.

Find your nearest Alabama office

Use our Alabama DMV office finder to locate the closest AL DPS location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.

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