How to Get an Alabama ID: Requirements and Application Process
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If you don't have a driver's license, then an Alabama ID is an essential form of identification. While it's easy to overlook the importance of having an ID in daily life, it comes in handy in many situations, such as voting or opening a bank account.
As with driver's licenses, the Alabama DMV issues identification cards. This guide explains the process for getting your state ID and covers various forms of identification in the process.
Understanding the Importance of an Alabama ID
An Alabama state ID serves as official proof of your identity and residency within the state. The card is necessary for many everyday activities. For example, most financial institutions require identification to open accounts, cash checks, or conduct transactions. Government services and federal processes, such as voting, also require proof of identity.
An ID also serves as age verification, allowing you to purchase age-restricted items like alcohol and cigarettes if you are of age. Identification cards can make it harder to commit fraud while providing retailers with an easy way to verify a consumer's age.
Types of Identification Cards Available in Alabama
When most people think of an Alabama ID, they think of a non-driver identification card, which is something other than a driver's license. That said, a license is a form of acceptable identification. Alabama has several types of identification cards, which fall into three categories.
1. Driver's Licenses
A driver's license is a card that grants an individual permission to operate a motor vehicle on Alabama roads. This category includes learner licenses for people learning to drive under the supervision of a licensed driver and commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) for people who operate commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers and buses. It also covers licenses for motor-driven cycles, including motorcycles and scooters.
2. Vessel Licenses
Commonly called boat registration or a boater's license, vessel licenses can serve as a non-official form of identification to prove ownership and registration of a watercraft.
3. Non-Driver ID Cards
Finally, the non-driver identification card category is the standard state ID or Alabama ID card. It is for state residents who don't have a driver's license but require or desire an official form of identification.
Eligibility Requirements for Alabama ID Cards
Like most states, to get a State ID in Alabama, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. These requirements are somewhat different than when applying for a driver's license or vehicle registration — no one will ask for proof of Alabama insurance. When applying for this ID, the primary focus is whether you are who you say.
General Eligibility Criteria
Typically, you must provide evidence that your principal residence is in Alabama. In most cases, providing utility bills, lease agreements, or another record from a government body is enough proof.
Unfortunately, residency is more challenging for minors to prove without having a parent or guardian present for the application. Alabama has no age restriction for IDs, and minors don't need parental or guardian consent to apply for one. Younger applicants who don't want parental or guardian consent can request copies of their official school record or use school mail, such as report cards, as proof of residency.
Beyond proving residency, you'll need to prove your identity with one of the following:
- Birth certificate
- Passport
- Another government-issued ID
- Social Security card
The state does make exceptions for special circumstances. For example, unhoused residents can find it challenging to provide proof of residency, so the state works with organizations and nonprofits to find acceptable alternatives. A shelter or similar agency may help verify and satisfy residency requirements.
STAR ID Designation
The REAL ID, or STAR ID in Alabama, is an advanced security identification card. It requires more thorough vetting of applicants to meet federal identification and verification standards. The designation is necessary for domestic air travel and entrance into most federal facilities.
To get a STAR ID, you must go to an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License office with proof of identification:
- Valid U.S. passport card
- Certified birth certificate
- Social Security card
- 2 documents verifying your address
If you're a foreign natural, you'll need to provide a Green Card, employment authorization document, or VISA. If you went through the process to become a citizen, you'll need to provide your certificate of naturalization.
Required Documentation for Application
You can find a list of primary and secondary required documents for an Alabama ID application on the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency website. One document from the primary list is necessary for your ID application. If the primary document doesn't have a photo, you'll need another form of identification from the secondary list, such as a marriage certificate.
How To Apply for an Alabama ID
You must visit a Driver License Examining Office to apply for your initial ID card. The first time, you'll fill out an application. Then, you'll need to pay the required fees: $36.25 for the card and $5 for the document examination.
Before applying, double-check everything on your application and triple-check that you have all required documents. Incorrect information often causes delays and rejections.
You can receive a renewal or replacement Alabama ID card online. Visit alabamabl.alea.gov and look under the heading "My Card." From there, select "Renew or Duplicate My Card" and follow the on-screen instructions.
Application Fees
The application fee for a state ID in Alabama is $36.25. The cost for duplicates is $31.25. If you're transferring from out-of-state, the fee is $41.25.
Keeping Your Alabama ID Updated and Secure
Updating and securing your Alabama ID can protect against fraud and identity theft. You can also invest in identity theft insurance through an Alabama car insurance policy to protect against liability and financial losses. Use the EverQuote comparison tool to compare policies and find the right insurance for your needs.