Green Vehicle Laws and Regulations in Alabama

Whether you drive a plug-in electric car, a hybrid, or any other fuel-efficient vehicle, stay up to date on the Alabama laws below that are specific to eco-friendly driving, green vehicles, and protecting the environment. Keep in mind that as AL increases its focus on environmental issues, regulations might also change. Stay in the loop by also consulting your local Motor Vehicle Division branch and the Alternative Fuels Data Center.

Of course, all drivers must abide by Alabama's general traffic laws. However, being a green-minded driver might earn you some extra perks in the form money-saving green driver incentives.

Alabama Vehicle Registration for Green Vehicles

When it comes to AL vehicle registration and registration renewal, the Alabama Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) does not cut drivers of fuel-efficient cars and alternative fuel vehicles (AFVs) a break. For more on registering your car or truck in Alabama, consult our section titled AL Registration and Titling or your local MVD office.

Alabama Emissions Testing for Eco-Friendly Vehicles

At this time, Alabama does not test emissions as a requirement of AL vehicle registration. For more on privately run testing stations and how to protect yourself from harmful pollution, check out our Alabama Smog & Emissions Checks page.

AL Alternative Fuel Tax

If your vehicle operates on propane—also known as liquefied petroleum gas (LPG)—or natural gas, you must buy an annual flat fee sticker from the Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board to cover your state road tax. This applies to both owners and operators. Here’s how:

1. Complete the Application for Motor Vehicle LP-Gas Fuel Decal.
2. Calculate the amount you owe from the fees* listed on the application, and make a certified check or money order payable to the Alabama LPG Board.
3. Mail your completed application and appropriate fee to the address listed on the application.
4. Once you receive your sticker by mail, affix it to your vehicle according to the LPG Board specification to prove you’ve paid your issuance and decal fees.

*The decal fee varies depending on your vehicle’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR). In addition to this fee, you must also pay a standard decal issuance fee also listed on the application.

As the vehicle owner, you must also apply for the decal within 10 days of converting it to run on propane or natural gas, or you’ll face a 20% penalty in addition to your decal fee. For more on this alternative fuel tax, consult the Alternative Fuels Data Center (AFDC) or the Alabama Liquefied Petroleum Gas Board.

Keep up with the latest Alabama laws and regulations for green vehicle owners and drivers through the U.S. Department of Energy’s AFDC site.

Alabama Auto Insurance Requirements

In order to operate your fuel-efficient vehicle on Alabama's public roads, you must insure it in line with AL's auto insurance requirements. However, some car insurance companies give the drivers of green vehicles a break on insurance rates. Check out our page on green driver incentives for more on ways to save some green for going green.