There are two agencies in Alabama that handle driver licensing and motor vehicle services:
- Licensing: The Department of Public Safety (DPS), a division of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
- Motor vehicles: The Alabama Department of Revenue’s (DOR) Motor Vehicle Division (MVD)
The DPS handles all driver-related services for both new residents and existing AL drivers, including driver’s license, ID card, and learner’s permit applications, road testing, driving records, and commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs), as well as boat licensing and registration.
The MVD handles vehicle registration and titling services for Alabama residents, including license plate applications, motor vehicle reports, and custom license plates.
As a new resident to Alabama, you have 30 days after establishing residency to exchange your driver’s license and apply for a vehicle registration. There are no inspection requirements for vehicles in Alabama.
Online and Third-Party Services
DPS online services include:
- Driver license/ID card renewal and replacement
- Boat registration
- Boat licensing
- CDL medical self-certification
- Downloadable licensing forms
The DPS also offers online resources such as road test study guides and driver manuals. The ALEA/DPS partners with third parties like Boat-Ed.com and BoaterExam.com for boat licensing examinations, as well as private driver education companies for teens moving through the graduated driver licensing program.
MVD online services include:
- Online appointments
- Title applications and replacements
- Personalized plate applications
- Motor vehicle record requests
- Downloadable title and registration forms
Some counties also offer online registration renewal—find your county office to see whether you can renew online.
Contact Information
Department of Public Safety:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Licensing Bureau
PO Box 1471
Montgomery, AL 36102
Phone: (334) 517-2763
Department of Revenue:
2545 Taylor Road
Montgomery, AL 36117
Phone: (334) 242-9000