Renewing Your License

An Alabama driver's license is valid for four years. You must renew your license in person at your local driver's license office within 30 days of the expiration date. The state does offer a grace period of 60 days after expiration, but it is still illegal to drive with an expired license.

The cost to renew your license is $23-28, depending on your local office. Local legislators may authorize a higher fee.

You will be given a temporary paper license at the time of renewal. Your permanent, laminated license will be mailed to you within two weeks.

Renew by Mail

If you happen to be out of state when your license comes due, you may apply for renewal by mail. The Department of Public Safety has posted a form online for you to print and fill out. It is a PDF document, so you will need the free Adobe Reader software to access the file.

Military personnel and their families, students, and business travelers can use this form. The renewal can be applied for by mail 60 days prior to the expiration date on your license.

Alabama law requires drivers to include the following supporting documentation with their renewal applications:

• Military members must enclose a copy of their military ID and military orders.

• Students must enclose a copy of their student photo ID and school enrollment papers.

• If you are temporarily employed outside of state, you must provide a certification letter from your employer. The letter must be written on company letterhead.