How to get an Alabama Drivers License

Alabama Driver's License Guidelines
How to Prepare for the Written Exam
Required ID and Paperwork

AL Drivers License Rules and Requirements

Find out the steps to get your AL drivers license, pass your DMV written test, replace your out-of-state license and the required paperwork to bring to the DMV office to get your driver's license.

Try Sample Test!

All applicants need to be familiar with the Alabama Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.

Get your AL Driver's Permit

Under Alabama driver's license guidelines, you must be at least 15 years old to apply for a Learners Permit. All applicants are required pass a written exam and vision test in order to obtain the permit. You then must hold the learners permit for 6 months prior to applying for a driver license.

Prepare for the Written Knowledge Test

The Alabama DPS requires that all applicants must pass a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques. If you fail the exam, some states require you to wait until at least the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.

All new drivers are encouraged to study for this driver education exam so you don't miss the opportunity to get your learners permit as soon as you reach the approved age. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the Alabama practice test now and test your driving knowledge.

New Alabama Residents

New residents with an out-of-state license must obtain a Alabama driver's license within 30 days of establishing a permanent residence in AL. When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.

There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid out-of-state license to an AL driver's license, however you will need to pass the vision test.

If your out-of-state driver's license has expired more than three years ago, you will be required to pass all required testing to receive a driver's license.

International Drivers

Acceptable documentation for proof of name, date of birth and authorized presence documents must be original or copies certified by issuing agency. Unless otherwise noted, documents must be current or be of the type that does not expire. Immigration documents must reflect at least 160 days allowable time remaining in the United States.

Required Paperwork

Before you head to the Alabama DPS Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:

On the Road

Once your licensing requirements have been met, you will receive your new:

Provisional Driver's License (16 to 17 years of age)
Full Driver's License (17 and older) valid for 4 years.

Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.