License Department - Drivers License

TESTING:
Alabama State Troopers Office
1115-A Church St
Huntsville AL 35801
256-539-0681
Hours for Testing:
8 am to 11:15 am
Closed 12 noon to 12:30 pm
12:30 pm to 3:30 pm
REINSTATEMENT/ACCIDENT REPORTS:
Alabama State Troopers Office
1115-A Church St
Huntsville AL 35801
256-539-0681
Hours:
8 am to noon
Closed 12 noon to 12:30 pm
12:30 pm to 4 pm
MONTGOMERY
334-242-4400 - for suspended license
256-539-0681
RENEWAL LOCATIONS:
Madison County Courthouse
100 North Side Square Room 108
Huntsville AL 35801-4820
8:30 am to 5:00 pm
256-532-3320
Drivers License Test Center
1115-A Church St
Huntsville AL 35801
256-539-0681
Satellite Locations:
Southern Family Market in Madison Wall Triana & Hwy 72 West
Wall Triana & Hwy 72 West
Madison AL 35758
8:30 am to 4:30 pm
Parkway Place Mall
2801 S. Mem Pkwy #100
Huntsville AL 35805
8:30 am to 4:30 pm

RENEWAL

Your Alabama driver's license expires four years after it is issued and the expiration date is shown on the license. The license may be renewed at any time within 60 days prior to expiration.
Any valid driver's license in possession of a person on active duty with the armed forces, their dependents, or any person temporarily out of Alabama at license renewal time may be renewed by mail. The required fee ($23 for regular license renewal) should be submitted by cashiers check or money order made payable to the Department of Public Safety and mailed to the Drivers License Division, P O Box 1471, Montgomery AL 36102-1471. The licensee's full name, birth date, and driver license number should be included along with their out-of-state address. The license must bear an Alabama address. You will keep the same picture and signature. You can download the form from the internet at www.dps.state.al.us - click on Form.
You may renew your Alabama Drivers license in any county in the State. Alabama no longer sends advance notices when your driver's license is about to expire. You will be notified 30 days after your license has expired to come in and renew your license.
Alabama law grants a grace period of 60 days after the expiration date of a driver's license for the purpose of driver's license renewal and the driver's license shall be valid for this period of time.
An Alabama driver's license may be renewed without examination within a 3 year period after expiration. A license issued under these circumstances will be valid for a four-year period from the last expiration date instead of four years from date of issue. Even though license renewal is possible up to three years after expiration, a person could not legally operate a motor vehicle with an expired license.
You will need to bring your Driver's License with you when you renew your license. If you have lost your license and it is time to renew, you must bring a certified document to renew.
You need to know the answers to the following questions:

Is your Address Correct? This is for your mailing address. The state will NOT forward Drivers Licenses.
Is your Height and Weight correct?
Do you wish to be an organ donor? (
Do you wish your Social Security Number displayed on your license? It is your choice. Your social security number is required by law to be furnished when applying for or renewing a driver's license but it is your choice to have it displayed on your driver's license. (link to information attached)

If you do not receive your permanent driver's license by the expiration date on your temporary, you will need to contact the State of Alabama at the number on your temporary license.

OUT-OF-STATE PROCEDURE - MOVING TO ALABAMA

If you have a valid Out-of-State license, you will take an eye test only. You need your Out-of-State license, Social Security Card, Birth Certificate or U.S. Passport. The fee is $5 cash for your eye exam and $23 for your 4-year license. If you wish to add the vessel operator's license, there is an additional $5 cash fee.
Additional information is available at the following web site: www.dps.state.al.us
If a previous Alabama resident has been out-of-state less than 3 years, you can surrender your license and be re-issued your previous number. If not, go to the State Trooper's office at 1115-A Church Street; Huntsville AL 35801.
Fee:
$5, (cash only) Take Eye Exam
$5, (cash only) For Boat Exam
$23 (cash) for 4-year license
$18 (cash) for duplicate license

LEARNERS LICENSE

The minimum driving age in Alabama is 16. However, there are certain exceptions and restrictions:
Learner's License - 15 years old:
Fifteen year olds may obtain a restricted Learner's License for the purpose of learning to safely and effectively operate a motor vehicle. The examination for the license is taken from information in the Alabama Driver's Manual. Upon satisfactory completion of the required examination, the applicant will be issued a regular Alabama driver's license with a "Y" restriction. The "Y" restriction indicates that the holder may operate a motor vehicle while accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is duly licensed in this state or a licensed or certified driving Instructor occupying the seat beside the operator. However, after the holder's sixteenth birthday, the holder may operate a motor vehicle with any licensed driver occupying the seat beside the driver. This Learner's License is valid for four years.
Learner's License - 16 years old and older:
Any person 16 years of age or older who, except for his lack of instruction in operating a motor vehicle, would otherwise be qualified to obtain a driver's license, may obtain a Learner's License upon satisfactory completion of the required examination. The examination for this license is taken from information in the Alabama Driver's Manual. After satisfactory completion of the required examination, the applicant will be issued a regular Alabama driver license with a "Y" restriction. The "Y" restriction indicates that the holder may only operate a motor vehicle with a licensed driver occupying the seat beside the driver. This license is valid for four years.
Both Learner's Licenses may be suspended or revoked in the same manner and for the same cause as a driver's license and may also be revoked for any violations of the terms and conditions on which it was issued.
Learner's License - "Y" Restriction Removal
Any person 16 years of age or older who holds a Learner's License and has developed the necessary skills to safely operate a motor vehicle may present himself to his local driver's license examiner for the road test. He must surrender his picture Learner's License at the time of the road test. Upon satisfactory completion of the road test, the applicant will be issued a new regular license for the remainder of the four-year period. This will be at no cost to the applicant.
NOTICE: Before any restrictions can be removed or any other changes in your driver's license status takes place, it is mandatory that you have your permanent picture license in your possession at the time of requesting a change. If you have lost or destroyed your license, you must obtain a duplicate and wait for the permanent picture license before any changes can be made.
Study Books Available.
Need:
Certified Birth Certificate
School Enrollment Form
If you are 19 and older, you will be exempt from this form.
Social Security Card
Fee:
$5, written test, eye exam
$23, Learners Permit (4 years)

LOST OR STOLEN REPLACEMENT

If your license is lost, destroyed, or becomes illegible, but has not yet expired, you should apply for a duplicate license at the License Department with acceptable identification. No examination is necessary but proof of identity such as a certified birth certificate is required at time of application.
Any person making a false affidavit in obtaining a duplicate driver license may be charged with Forgery (Title 13A-9-3) or Perjury (Title 13A-I 1-102) or both under the Criminal code of Alabama and punished accordingly by fine and imprisonment or both.
If your license has been lost or stolen, you need to report to law enforcement for your protection.
You MUST bring the following:

Social Security Card
And two of the following documents:

Certified Birth Certificate
Valid Passport
Valid Military Identification
Certified School Record (from a local school with applicant's full name and date of birth)
Certified Marriage License (with name and date of birth on it)
A list of additional acceptable documents is available from the state web site: www.dps.state.al.us

Fee: $18 for duplicate license (cash or local check)

MOTOR/VOTER

Forms are available to register to vote when renewing your driver's license. Be sure to complete the form when you change your name or address.
First time voter registration and those from out of state may complete the form and leave with our office.

NON-DRIVERS IDENTIFICATION

The Alabama Non-Driver Identification card is for non-drivers only. A citizen of Alabama may apply for a non-driver's identification card at any location where driver testing is done. The same degree of proof of identification required of applicants for a driver's license is required for non-driver ID cards. Identification cards are issued to applicants who do not physically qualify for a driver's license, do not have a current driver's license, or who wish to discontinue driving and surrender their driver's license.
The non-driver identification card bears a number, as well as name, date of birth, address, description of holder, and a color photo of the holder.
There is no examination required for an identification card.
Need:

Social Security Card - required
Certified Birth Certificate
(Other approved Identification from list)
Non-Driver's ID are only good for 8 years and then must be renewed.
If you are 62 or older, it is good for a lifetime.
A list of additional acceptable documents is available from the state web site: www.dps.state.al.us

Fee:
$23 for 1st time
$18 for each replacement
$5 for 62 years old or older

WHAT DOES IT COST?

The written test is $5.00, cash only.
The issuance fee is $23 after successfully completing the written examination(s), paid to the License Department at the time the temporary license is issued. Driver's License renewal is $23, paid to the License Department.

Type of Renewal Cost Operate

Class A Commercial $53.00

Class B Commercial $43.00

Class B School Bus $23.00

Class C $23.00

Class D $23.00 Motor Vehicle

Class M $23.00 Motorcycle

Class V $23.00 Water Vessel

Driver License Replacement $18.00

ID New $23.00

ID Renew $23.00

ID Replacement $18.00

Disabled ID $1.50

Disabled ID Renewal $1.50

Over 62 ID $5

If you are paying by check, it should be payable to: Mark Craig, License Director.

NAME CHANGE - WHERE AND WHAT TO BRING

Need:
CERTIFIED document stating name change
Marriage Certificate
Divorce Decree stating you can return to maiden name
Document from Probate Judge certifying name change
Fee: $18 for duplicate license

ADDRESS CHANGE - WHERE AND WHAT TO BRING

Need:
Required by law to notify Public Safety:
Drivers License Division
P O Box 1471
Montgomery AL 36102-1471
Provide name, driver's license number, date of birth, and new address.
You will not be given any documentation for your driver's license. Don't forget to change your voter registration at the same time.
Fee: $18 for duplicate license, if you want the address changed on your license

SOCIAL SECURITY OFFICE

Social Security Administration
5021 Bradford Dr Ste 100
Huntsville AL
256-837-7010
8:30 am - 3:30 pm; Monday-Friday
If you have a Social Security number but cannot locate your Social Security card, contact the Social Security Administration. You will need to complete a Form SS-5 Application for a Social Security Card and submit proof of identity. You can get a Form SS 5 from the Internet at www.ssa.gov, or by calling 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting the local Social Security Office. When you apply for a duplicate Social Security card, tell Social Security you need a "print out" to verify your name and Social Security number for an Alabama driver's license.
Check the Social Security Administration web site for a list of approved documents to obtain a duplicate social security number. Your birth certificate CANNOT be accepted as evidence of your identity because a birth certificate establishes only a Fact of Birth. It is not an identity document.
Your Social Security Number is required by Alabama law to be furnished when applying for or renewing a driver's license; BUT it is YOUR CHOICE to have it displayed on your driver license.
Code of Alabama 32-2-9. Director; rules and regulations.
The director of public safety, with the approval of the governor, may establish and promulgate reasonable rules and regulations not in conflict with the laws of this state concerning operation of motor vehicles and concerning the enforcement of the provisions of this chapter.
The "reasonable rule" in this instance is that the social security number, which is a national identifier, when used to verify identity along with other identifiers insures further that the person is who they claim to be. The Social Security Administration has developed a program, in an effort to combat fraud, which is accessible to all states for the verification of social security numbers listed on driver's license records.
760-X-.19 - Requirement that social security number be divulged in order to obtain a driver's license.

All persons applying for a driver's license shall be required to furnish to the Alabama Department of Public Safety their social security number in order to obtain an Alabama driver's license.
The Department shall use such numbers for the purpose of administering the driver's license laws of this state and for such other purposes as may be permitted under state and federal law.
The Department shall maintain the confidentiality of social security numbers obtained by it except to the extent the use of such numbers is permitted by state and federal law.

Statutory Authority: Code of Alabama 1975, Sections 32-2-9 and 32-6-13. 42 U.S.C. Section 405 ( c ).
The language of the above does not allow us to make the requirement to provide a social security number optional. It is, however, the option of the individual to have the social security number displayed on their driver's license.

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS FOR LAWFULLY ADMITTED ALIENS WHO NEED AN ALABAMA DRIVER'S LICENSE - Policy change effective March 1, 2002

Lawfully admitted aliens authorized to work by the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) who present valid, required documentation can be issued a Social Security Card.
Effective March 1, 2002, lawfully admitted aliens not authorized by the INS to work in the United States cannot, as a general rule, be issued a Social Security Card or a replacement Social Security Card.
The following are not valid reasons under Social Security Administration national policies to issue an original or replacement Social Security card.

State Driver's License, Commercial Driver's License, Motor Vehicle Registration, or Identity Card
Federal or State Income Tax Purposes
Banking/Monetary Purposes (for example, to open a bank account)
State Issued Licenses or Certificates
Savings Bonds
Student Loans
School Lunch Programs
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Housing
School Purposes (for example, to enroll in school)
Representative payees for someone receiving Social Security or SSI payments

Since October 2000, the State of Alabama has had a co-operative policy with the Social Security Administration to issue Social Security Cards to lawfully admitted aliens not allowed to work who need an Alabama driver's license. Effective March 1, 2002, Social Security Administration policy no longer allows Social Security cards to be issued in these cases.

BOATS (VESSEL) LICENSE

Study book available.

Statewide licensing of boat operators began in all Alabama counties July 17, 1997, under the Boating Safety Reform Act. The initial boat licensing program will be carried out during the next four years. Under the law, all persons age 12 and older who operate a motorized vessel on Alabama waterways must be licensed by April, 1999. A written examination is required for applicants, except those who were 40 or older on April 28, 1994, or those who have successfully completed boating courses given by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the U.S. Power Squadron or the Alabama Marine Police "Boating Basics" course. This legislation, which also provides sanctions for drunken driving and other offenses, has been hailed as the toughest boating act in the country.
Effective January 1, 2002, the minimum age for Boat Operators is 14.
Your license will have a "V" added to indicate your "vessel" license has been added. Your license must be with you when you operate the boat.
Need:
Certified Birth Certificate
Social Security Card - Required
If you were born on or before April 28, 1954, you will be exempt from written test. You are also exempt from the written test if you have a boating certificate. You are still required to have the "V" endorsement on your driver license.
If you were born after April 28, 1954, a written test is required.
Certifications can consist of the following:

Exam by State Troopers, 1115-A Church St; Huntsville
Coast Guard Certification - 256-883-5275 or 256-883-2431
Marine Police Certification - 256-582-1099 or 1-888-903-7659 Cost Guard Auxiliary Certification
Certification by on-line test (www.boat-ed.com)
Anyone 14 years of age or older must have "V" license. (Age changed 1/1/02)
Fee:
$5 cash to State Troopers for paperwork to add Vessel to license, take eye exam.
$18 for duplicate license to add endorsement
$23 for 1st time license

MOTORCYCLE LICENSE

Study book available.

Motorcycle license - 14 & 15 years old:
Fourteen and fifteen year olds may obtain a restricted license to operate a motorcycle weighing not more than 200 pounds, nor exceeding 150cc engine displacement. The examination for this license is taken from the Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual and the Alabama Driver's Manual. Upon satisfactory completion of the required examination, the applicant will be issued a Class M Alabama driver license with a "B" restriction. The "B" restriction indicates that the holder may operate a motorcycle ONLY. This license is valid for four years.
Motorcycle license - 16 years and older:
Sixteen year olds and older may obtain a restricted license to operate a motorcycle. A motorcycle is defined as a motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground but excluding a tractor. The examination for this license is taken from the Alabama Motorcycle Operator Manual and the Alabama Driver's Manual. Upon satisfactory completion of the required examination, the applicant will be issued a Class M Alabama driver license. Class M indicates that the holder may operate a motorcycle only. This license is valid for four years.
In addition to the above restricted licenses, the Director of Public Safety has the authority to impose restrictions on your driver's license when it appears that these restrictions are necessary for you to operate a motor vehicle safely. A common restriction is the requirement of wearing corrective lenses while driving. Another is the use of mechanical devices that aid physically impaired persons. Operation of a motor vehicle in violation of restrictions may result in the loss of your license.
Need:
Must be at least 14 years of age
Birth State issued Birth Certificate
Social Security Card
School Certification
Fee:
$5 cash for written exam, take eye exam
$23 for new license
$18 for duplicate license
$18 to add endorsement

COMMERCIAL DRIVER'S LICENSE

Alabama adopted the Federal Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986, and is part of a nationally uniform system of classifying, testing, and licensing commercial vehicle drivers.
If you drive a commercial vehicle that falls into one of the following classifications, you must secure an Alabama Commercial Driver License (CDL).
CLASS A - This classification applies only to "combination" vehicles with a Gross Combination Weight Rating (GCWR) exceeding 26,000 pounds, provided the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed exceeds 10,000 pounds. The holder of a Class A license, which includes any appropriate endorsements, may operate all vehicles included in Class B, C, and D.
CLASS B - This class includes single or combination vehicles where the GVWR of the single vehicle exceeds 26,000 pounds. The vehicle in tow must not exceed 10,000 pounds. Class B licenses, with appropriate endorsements, may drive all vehicles in Class C or D.
CLASS C - Vehicles designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver, and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials, that do not meet the criteria for Class A or B above fall under this classification and may drive all vehicles in Class D.
CDL endorsements are required for double/triple trailers, tanker vehicles, passenger vehicles and vehicles placarded for hazardous materials.
Commercial Driver's Manuals and information are available at the Alabama State Trooper's Office.
Need:
Drivers License
D.O.T. Medial Long Form (cannot use the medical card)
Contact Public Safety (256-539-0681 or 256-539-0682) for information
Fee:
$53 for Class A
$43 for Class B
$23 for Class B School Bus
$23 for Class C
$23 for Class D

INTERNATIONAL DRIVERS LICENSE

International Driver's license must be obtained through the following:
AAA Travel
2625 S Memorial Parkway
Huntsville AL 35801
256-539-7493
The following information will be required to obtain an International Driver's License:

2 Passport size photos
Valid U.S. Driver's License
$10
The license will be good 1 year from effective date and will be issued the same day.
For additional information: www.aaa.com

ROAD TEST

The road test is the final step toward qualifying for the privilege of driving on public streets and highways. A driver's license examiner of the Department of Public Safety gives all road tests. You must furnish a vehicle for the road test.
The vehicle will be checked by the examiner before the test begins. It must be in safe operating condition and have the required equipment. The equipment required for the examination includes rear view mirror, horn, windshield wipers, two separate methods of applying brakes, muffler, headlights, rear tail lights, valid license plate, stop light, and directional signals. You must also have a copy of the license plate receipt and your mandatory liability insurance card in the vehicle. This equipment must be in good operating condition. The license examiner may refuse to give the road test in event of hazardous weather or road conditions.
For additional information on road test go to www.dps.state.al.us
If you fail the test, you will be allowed to try again after you have had time to improve your driving. Only one road test per day is permitted.
Unless you already have a legal right to drive in Alabama, you must come for the road test in a vehicle driven by a licensed driver. The licensed driver must remain to drive the vehicle away if you fail.
When you have passed all tests, you will go to the License Department office to have your photo taken, and pay the required fees; you will receive a temporary license with your picture that shows you have the privilege of driving a motor vehicle in Alabama. You will receive your permanent license by mail within 30 days. If you do not receive your license in 30 days, call the driver license division at 334-242-4400.
The license MUST be carried on your person at all times while driving.
Need:
Learner's permit
Vehicle for road test - Needs to be road ready
Copy of insurance
Copy of tag registration
Have someone drive you to the testing center.
Fee: No charge for 1st change to have "Y" removed from license

ORGAN DONATION

When you obtain your driver's license, you will be asked,"Do you wish to be an organ donor?" If you say Yes, what does that mean?
"Yes" means that you want to give someone a very special gift - a second chance at life. "Yes" means you have decided to give organs or tissues after your death to people who urgently need a transplant. The title Organ Donor will appear on your license.
The urgent need for organ transplants grows daily with over 50,000 people nationally and over 1,000 people in Alabama anxiously waiting. You can save lives through donation. Your choice to become an organ donor can make a life-saving difference for these critically ill people.
You are not under pressure to say, "Yes." This is your personal decision which should be discussed with your family. If you have any questions, call the Alabama Organ Center at 800-252-3677.
COMMON QUESTIONS ABOUT DONATION

Will becoming a donor affect my medical care if I am in an accident? The doctors and nurses treating you will always try to save your life. There is no conflict of interest. These doctors are not part of the transplant team.

Will my body be disfigured by donation? Organs and tissues are removed in an operation at the hospital. Your body is treated with respect and an open casket funeral is possible after donation.

Is my family charged if I am a donor? Families who donate do not pay for the donation. Families pay only for the costs involved in trying to save the life of the injured person. Donation is a gift�not a charge to the family.

Can I wait and talk to my family about organ donation before I decide? Yes, information from the Alabama Organ Center about donation and transplantation is available by calling 1-800-252-3677. Share the facts with your family, talk with the clergy and discuss how they feel about helping others through organ and tissue donation.

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