A drivers license renewal in Alabama is required every four years so the state can keep accurate records of who is legally allowed to drive. Renewing your license in Alabama is different from ordering a replacement, which happens if your license is lost, stolen, or damaged.

To renew your license, it must be near its expiration date and you must meet all eligibility criteria set by the state. Learn more about who qualifies and how to complete the process below.

Eligibility for Drivers License Renewal in Alabama

To renew your Alabama license, you must currently hold a valid license and meet the following criteria:
Be at least 16 years old

Not be classified as a habitual DUI offender

If under 19, you must not have dropped out of school

See below for situations that may prevent you from renewing.

Instances When You Cannot Renew Your Drivers License in Alabama

You can only renew your license within 180 days of its expiration. If your license is not yet within that timeframe, you’ll need to wait or request a replacement if necessary.
You also cannot renew a license that has been suspended. After completing your suspension period and reinstating your license, you’ll be eligible to renew at your next expiration date.

How Early Can You Renew Your Drivers License in Alabama?

Alabama licenses are valid for four years. You may renew up to 180 days before the expiration date. If your license expires, you have a 60-day grace period to continue driving legally.
After that, you can still renew an expired license for up to three years. If more than three years have passed, you’ll need to reapply for a new license. Learn more about that process here.

License Renewal Options

Alabama offers three ways to renew your license: online, by mail, or in person. While renewing online is often the fastest, you may be required to renew in person depending on your situation.
Mail-in renewals are typically reserved for out-of-state residents, such as military members.
You can renew at any of the following locations:

County probate offices
License commissioner offices
Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) offices

How to Renew Your Drivers License Online

Eligible drivers can renew online via the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website. You’ll need to provide your:

Full legal name
Driver’s license number
Social Security Number (SSN)

Note: Online renewals must be paid with a credit card. If you renewed online last time, you must choose a different method (mail or in person) for your current renewal.

How to Renew Your License by Mail

If you’re temporarily living out of state and your license is about to expire, you may be able to renew by mail. This option is most commonly used by active-duty military members, but other residents may also qualify if they can show proof of being out of state.
To renew by mail, complete the “Application for a Renewal or Duplicate License for Alabama Drivers Temporarily Out of State” form. This form requires your:

Name
Social Security Number
Current address
Mail the completed form with a money order to:

Driver License Division Montgomery, AL P.O. Box 1471-36102

How to Renew Your Drivers License in Person

All drivers can renew their licenses in person at a local office. Appointments are recommended but may not be available at all locations. To renew in person, bring:

• Your current driver’s license
• A valid payment method for applicable fees

Military & Out of State Renewal in Alabama

Active-duty military members stationed outside Alabama can renew their licenses by mail. If you’re stationed in Alabama but hold a valid out-of-state license, you and your immediate family can drive legally in Alabama without needing to apply for a local license.
This exemption lasts for the duration of the military assignment, as long as the out-of-state license remains valid.

Alabama REAL ID Drivers License Renewal

As of May 7, 2025, all renewals will be eligible to renew as a STAR ID, which is Alabama’s version of the REAL ID. These are marked with a star in the corner. A REAL ID is required for boarding domestic flights and entering federal facilities.
To upgrade to a STAR ID, bring:

• Your Social Security card
• Proof of citizenship (e.g., birth certificate or passport)
• Two documents proving your current Alabama address

If you’re not a U.S. citizen, bring documentation showing your legal presence in the U.S. Your full legal name must match across all documents. If it doesn’t, you’ll need to provide proof of the name change (such as a marriage certificate or divorce decree).

Alabama Drivers License Renewal Fees

Wondering, “How much does it cost to renew a drivers license in Alabama?” The standard renewal fee is $36.50. If your license is expired and you’re required to retest, an additional testing fee may apply.

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