How to Renew Your Alabama Driver’s License: Everything You Need to Know
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Alabama driver’s license renewal is a fact of life for Alabama drivers every four years. This guide covers the ins and outs of driver’s license renewal in Alabama, including how to get a replacement license, document requirements, license card issuance fees, federal requirements, and more for remaining a valid driver on Alabama roads and highways.
Introduction to Alabama Driver's License Renewal
Your Alabama driver’s license must be renewed every four years, and you can do so within six months of your current license's expiration date. You will have a 60-day grace period after your license expires to renew it without penalties or additional work.
You can also get non-driver identification cards if you want a valid form of identification that is not a driver's license.
Eligibility Criteria for Alabama Driver's License Renewal
Most Alabama residents can renew their driver's licenses online. If you have a name or address change or need a new picture, however, you must renew your license in person at a county licensing office and cannot take advantage of the Alabama driver's license online renewal.
Likewise, the mail renewal option might be your best bet if you are temporarily out of state. You must complete and submit the Application for a Renewal or Duplicate License for Alabama Drivers Temporarily Out of State. However, if you have let your license lapse for more than three years, you will need to start from scratch.
Required Documents for Alabama License Renewal
For an Alabama renewal driver's license, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Your current Alabama driver's license
- Proof of identity, including a U.S. birth certificate or valid passport
- Proof of residency, such as a mortgage bill, lease agreement, or utility bill
You can also review the Alabama driver's handbook for the latest safe driving tips and information on driver's license protocol.
Step-by-Step Guide To Renewing Your Alabama License
For Alabama driver's license renewal online, you can follow these simple steps:
- Visit the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Online Services site.
- Go to the "My Card" section and select "Renew or Duplicate My Card."
- Verify your identity to access online services.
- Complete the renewal form and submit the required fee.
You can also visit an Alabama driver's license service center to renew your license in person. You will initially receive a temporary license before receiving your permanent license card in the mail.
Understanding Fees and Timelines for Alabama Renewals
It is important to be aware of the fees and timelines when you are preparing to renew your Alabama driver's license:
- The fee to renew your Alabama driver's license is $36.25. You can pay with cash, credit, or money order (no checks).
- Alabama drivers can renew their licenses online twice within a 12-year period. Then, you will need to do one renewal in person before returning to the online option.
- You can renew your license up to six months before its expiration date.
Special Scenarios: Expired Licenses and Updating Information
If your driver's license has expired, you have a 60-day grace period before you will have to pay a fine. While the regular renewal fee for Alabama driver's licenses is $36.25, you will be charged $5 for each day it has expired past 60 days.
If your license has expired by more than three years, you will have to retake both the knowledge and practical exams. If you drive with an expired license in Alabama and get pulled over, it is a misdemeanor offense that will incur additional fines and penalties. This is another reason why staying current on dates and renewals is essential.
Finally, if you need to update personal information, such as name, address, or photo, you must do so in person. You should bring your current driver's license, proof of name change and residency, and your Social Security card.
Tips To Avoid Common Renewal Delays
These helpful hints will help you stay ahead of the curve and avoid common driver's license renewal delays:
- Don't wait until the last minute. You can renew your Alabama driver's license up to six months before it expires. If you get started before the expiration date, you won't have to worry about driving with an expired license. You can set a reminder on your phone or in your calendar.
- Make sure all of your documents are in order. For example, if you are changing your name on your driver's license, you will need proof of your new name.
- Check the latest eligibility requirements. If you are about to turn 21 or have already renewed online twice a row, for example, you will want to check the latest eligibility requirements and updates.
It never hurts to be prepared for delays if offices are busy. Be patient with employees who may feel overwhelmed, and take a deep breath if you get frustrated.
Renew Your Alabama License Today — Find Affordable Car Insurance Now!
Operating a motor vehicle is a privilege for new and long-time drivers alike, and car insurance is a key part of safe driving. Alabama car insurance is a requirement, so you'll want to find affordable auto insurance that meets your needs as soon as you renew your driver's license.
Check out EverQuote's online auto insurance comparison tool, which allows you to compare quotes side by side and find affordable car insurance in Alabama.