Learner’s License

You can obtain an Alabama learner’s license (or learner’s permit) and begin taking the steps to become a legal driver beginning at age 15. The permit will allow you to practice driving as long as you have a licensed driver aged 21 or above in the car with you.

To get your learner’s license, you will need to pass a multiple-choice test, more commonly known as a permit test, to show that you are familiar with the rules of the road. The information you will need for the test can be found in the Alabama Driver’s Manual.

Study, Study, Study

If you want to pass the test, you are going to have to study. Be sure to read the entire manual very carefully and go back over any parts you aren’t sure about. We provide a free copy of the manual on this site, or you can get a physical copy by visiting the Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS).

Take Practice Exams

Taking practice exams is one of the best ways to ensure that you’ve fully absorbed all of the information you’ve been studying. Don’t waste your time and money failing a test that you weren’t prepared for. Our Alabama practice permit test includes much of the same material you will see on the actual test and is a great resource for learning.

Gather The Necessary Materials and Visit Your Local DPS Office

Before traveling to your local DPS office to take the exam, you will need to bring certain materials along with you:

• At least $28.50 for license and testing fees
• Your original U.S. birth certificate
• Your social security card
• Proof of your school enrollment or graduation:
  • Enrollment/Exclusion Form (DL1/93)
  • GED or graduation certificate
  • Certified letter from your school stating your enrollment

Take the Tests

Try to relax as you take the exam. You studied hard for this, and now, you will reap the reward! Aside from the written exam, be aware that you will also need to take a vision test during this time. This test is necessary to ensure you can see well enough to drive safely.

Restricted License

To move on to the next step in the graduated license process, you must be at least 16 years old, have had your learner’s permit for at least six months, and have completed at least 30 hours of practice driving or graduated from a state-approved driver’s education course. If you choose to learn on your own with the help of a licensed parent or guardian, he or she will need to complete the Graduated Driver License form (DL-31) to show that you have done your training hours.

Hopefully, you practiced hard, because now, you are required to get behind the wheel and take the road test. There is a fee of $23.50 for the test and the license.

You should be aware that a restricted license comes with some limitations:

• You can’t drive between midnight and 6 a.m. without a licensed driver age 21 or older unless you are going to a work, church or school-related event
• You can’t drive with more than one passenger in your vehicle, with the exception of parents and other family members

Driver’s License

To obtain a regular driver’s license in Alabama, you must be 17 or older, and you must have held a restricted license for at least six months. If you are 18 or older, you can apply for your regular license without having held a restricted license just as long as you can pass the road test.

• A regular license will cost you $18.50 if you already had a restricted license
• A regular license will cost you $23.50 if you’re 18 or older and do not currently hold a restricted license

Additional Information

You do not qualify for an Alabama driver’s license if:

• Your driving privileges were revoked in another state
• You’re suffering from a physical or mental impairment that could affect your ability to drive safely
• You have a problem with drugs or alcohol
• You’re under the age of 19 and not in compliance with the Alabama Act 93-368, which requires all teens attend school