How to Get a Driver's License in Alabama [2025]

How Does It Work?

If you want to drive in Alabama, you will need an Alabama driver license. Getting your license is quite easy. You will have to pass a knowledge test, vision test, and a road skills test. To save you a considerable amount of time, here is a step-by-step guide that you will need to follow to get a driver license in Alabama.

Get a learner license

Allows you to practice driving under supervision.

Get a provisional license

Allows you to drive unsupervised with restrictions.

Get a Full (Adult) License

Allows you to drive with no restrictions.

Pro tip: If you're planning a road trip through Alabama's picturesque landscapes, make sure you're equipped with the right skills. Brush up on essential maneuvers with our guides on how to drive a stick shift and how to parallel park. Also, learn the best techniques for backing into a parking space and making three-point turns. Ensure you're adjusting your mirrors correctly for optimum visibility and safety. If you're looking to refine your driving further, our Online Driving Simulator can offer a practical experience from the comfort of your home. For international visitors, be sure to understand the requirements for an international driver's license in Alabama.

Types of Driver's Licenses in Alabama

For each license type there's a corresponding type of instruction permit

Class D

This is the usual kind of driver's license. It allows you to drive private cars. Read the AL Driver Manual or take a free AL permit practice test.

Class A and B

Allows you to operate any combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, where Class A allows you to tow vehicles which GCWR is in excess of 10,000 pounds, while Class B doesn't allow you to tow a vehicle with GVWR of more than 10,000 pounds. Read the AL CDL Manual or take a free CDL test.

Class C

Allows you to operate any single vehicle, or combination of vehicles that either is designed to transport 16 or more passengers including the driver or is used in the transportation of hazardous materials. Read the AL CDL Manual or take a free CDL test.

Class M and V

Class M allows you to operate a motorcycle, while class V is for driving a water vessel. Read the AL Motorcycle Operator Manual or take a free AL Motorcycle practice test.

How to Apply for Your Class D Driver License

To apply for your class D driver license you must first take a knowledge test, get a learner license and take a driving skills test. Here is your complete guide depending on your age.

I’m between 15 and 18
(First Timer)

Apply for Learner License

I’m between 16 and 17
(Learner License Holder)

Apply for Restricted License

I'm 17+ (First Timers and Learner License Holders)

Apply for Full (Adult) License

How to Apply for Your Learner License (Permit) for the First Time

Getting a learner license is stage one of Graduated Driver License program. It allows teens to drive supervised at all times by a parent, legal guardian or licensed driver who is age 21 or older in the front seat.

1Apply in person

You must apply in person at your local Driver License Office. To locate a nearby office, use this map. You can schedule your appointment online at least 48 hours prior to your preferred date.

2Bring the following documentation

Two forms of identification, one of which has your photograph, or three forms of identification otherwise. At least one must be primary identification, such as your birth certificate.
Social Security Card (original) or Medicare/Medicaid identification card
Proof of school enrollment (Enrollment/Exclusion form (DL1/93) or GED or Graduation certificate)

3Pass a vision test

You should have 20/40 acuity with both eyes and a horizontal temporal field of at least 110 degrees from the center. If you have uncorrected visual acuity of less than 20/40 in each eye, but at least 20/50 in one eye, you will be referred to a vision specialist for an examination.

4Pay the testing fee and take the knowledge test

You should pay the fee of $5.00 by cash or money order. No checks are acceptable.

5Pay the license fee

You must pay the fee of $36.25 if you pass the test and want to get the license. No checks. Cash and money orders are acceptable.

6Get your license

The learner license will be valid for 4 years and will have a “Y” restriction on it.

How to Get a Driver’s License in Alabama [2025]

Time is of the essence?