How to Renew an Alabama Driver's License

Renewing your Alabama driver's license is a simple process when you know the deadlines and which method you qualify for. The catch is that Alabama does not send a reminder before your license expires, so tracking the date yourself is essential. Here is how each renewal option works and what to do if you have already missed the deadline.

When Does Your Alabama License Expire?

Your license expires on your birthday every four years. Unlike many states, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) does not send a renewal notice before expiration. You will only receive a notice 30 days after your license has already expired, giving you an additional 30 days to renew before it becomes invalid. The standard renewal fee is $36.25, with additional late fees if you renew after the expiration date.

You can renew as early as 60 days before the expiration date with no penalty.

What Are the Three Ways to Renew?

Method	Who Qualifies	What You Need
Online	Available every other renewal cycle (if your last renewal was in person)	Current license number, valid credit card, access to a printer for your temporary license
By mail	Out-of-state residents and military personnel only	Completed out-of-state renewal form from ALEA website, money order for payment (personal checks not accepted)
In person	All drivers (required every other renewal cycle)	Current license or acceptable ID, payment ($36.25 plus any late fees)

Like Louisiana and several other states, Alabama requires you to alternate between online and in-person renewals. If your last renewal was online, your next one must be in person.

How Do You Renew Online?

If you are eligible for online renewal, visit the ALEA online driver services portal and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number and a valid credit card. After completing the renewal, print your temporary license, which is valid for 30 days while your permanent card arrives by mail.

Make sure ALEA has your current mailing address. If you have moved, you must update your address in person at an ALEA office before renewing online. An incorrect address means your permanent license will be mailed to the wrong location.

How Do You Renew In Person?

Visit any ALEA office in Alabama with your current license (or other acceptable identification) and payment. You will pass a vision test at the office and have your photo taken. ALEA offices accept cash, checks, and credit cards. After processing, you will receive a temporary license to use until your permanent card arrives by mail.

How Do You Renew by Mail?

Mail renewal is reserved for Alabama residents who are temporarily out of state for military service, employment, college, missionary work, or medical care. Download the out-of-state renewal form from the ALEA website, complete it, and mail it with a money order (personal checks are not accepted) to the address listed on the form. Your renewed license will be mailed to your out-of-state address.

What Happens if Your Alabama License Expires?

ALEA sends a notice 30 days after expiration. You then have an additional 30 days to renew before your license becomes invalid. If you renew after the expiration date, you will be charged late fees on top of the standard $36.25 renewal fee. Driving on an expired license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation, fines, and further complications if you are involved in an accident.

What About STAR ID (Alabama REAL ID)?

Alabama offers a STAR ID, which is the state's version of the federally compliant REAL ID. A STAR ID is required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. If you are renewing and want to upgrade to a STAR ID, you must do so in person at an ALEA office. Bring proof of identity (birth certificate or U.S. passport), proof of Social Security number, and two documents proving Alabama residency. The upgrade can be completed during your regular renewal visit.

What Can Slow Down Renewing Your Alabama License?

• Not knowing your expiration date because ALEA does not send pre-expiration reminders
• Trying to renew online when your last renewal was already online (you must alternate with in-person)
• An outdated mailing address on file, which prevents your permanent license from arriving
• Missing the 60-day post-expiration window, which may require additional steps and higher fees
• Attempting to mail a personal check for an out-of-state renewal (only money orders are accepted)

Keep Your License Current and Your Skills Sharp

Alabama does not use a point system for traffic violations, but violations still appear on your driving record and can affect your insurance rates. Taking a defensive driving course can help you dismiss a ticket, qualify for an insurance discount, and refresh your knowledge of traffic laws. I Drive Safely's online courses make it easy to improve your driving record from home. Find your course today.