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Howdy! In this article, you will learn how to get your Alabama driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license.

Types of Alabama Driver’s Licenses

The state of Alabama has different driver’s licenses. Here’s what you need to know about the types of Alabama driver’s licenses.

  • Class D – the standard driver’s license in Alabama. Allows individuals to operate Class B, C, and D category vehicles
  • CDL (Class A) – the highest type of commercial driver’s license in Alabama
  • CDL (Class B) – allows individuals with this type of CDL to operate single or combination vehicles
  • CDL (Class C) – allows individuals who obtain this type of CDL to operate a school bus and similar vehicles
  • Class M – allows individuals to operate a motorcycle
  • Class V – allows individuals to operate motorized watercraft and water vessels

Alabama Driver’s License Requirements

Before you gather the required documents and make your way to your local Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles (AL DMV), you need to know whether you are required to apply for an AL driver’s license.

You are required to obtain an Alabama driver’s license if:

  • You are a current Alabama resident who’s never been licensed
  • You are new to the state of Alabama and want to apply for an AL driver’s license or transfer your out-of-state driver’s license
  • You intend on operating any non-commercial vehicles as classified by the state of Alabama
  • You have legal presence in the state of Alabama and the United States (you are not required to obtain an AL driver’s license if you have a diplomatic driver’s license that has been issued by the U.S. Department of State.

You are not required to have an Alabama driver’s license if:

  • You are operating a farm vehicle
  • You’re employed by the U.S. federal government and operating a government-owned or leased vehicle
  • You meet any of the following non-resident situations:
    • You’re a member of the military or a dependent who is stationed in Alabama with a valid out-of-state driver’s license
    • You’re enrolled in any Alabama school, college, or university and have a valid out-of-state driver’s license
    • You are at least 16 years old and currently have a valid driver’s license from your home state or country
    • You’re at least 16 years old and from a country that doesn’t require a driver’s license (in this case, you are allowed to drive for 90 days IF the vehicle you’re operating is properly registered in your home country.)
  • You are not eligible for an AL driver’s license if:
    • You are a teen driver and have not gone through the state’s GDL process
    • You’re younger than 19 years old and don’t have proof that you’re enrolled in school, have graduated, or have obtained your GED)
    • You have a mental or physical impairment that the Director of Public Safety or licensing examiner believes will prevent you from safely operating a motor vehicle
    • You’ve been deemed a habitual alcohol or drug user

Applying for Your Alabama Driver’s License

To apply for your new AL driver’s license, you must visit your local AL DMV office and:

  • Provide 2 documents that prove your identity
    • 1 document must contain your photograph
    • If you don’t have an ID with a photo, you must provide 3 documents that prove your identity
    • U.S. passport or birth certificate, resident alien card, etc.
  • Provide proof of your social security number (social security card or W-2 tax form)
  • Proof of school enrollment or graduation (only required if you’re younger than 19 years old and a first-time driver’s license applicant)
  • Payment for the $5 testing fee (this fee covers your vision and written exams which you must pass before you can complete the steps in the AL driver’s licensing process)

Once you complete these steps, you can obtain your AL learner’s permit to practice driving or continue the AL driver’s licensing process and schedule your driving test.

If you’re ready to get on the road and receive your Alabama driver’s license immediately, you must pay the $36.25 licensing fee and complete and pass your exam. You need to make sure you have:

  • A licensed driver
  • Proof of a valid AL vehicle insurance policy
  • A vehicle with a valid registration

If you would rather wait to take your AL driving test so you can practice driving, feel free to do so! You can visit your local AL DMV when you’re ready to take your test.

After you pass your Alabama driving exam and pay all applicable licensing fees, you will receive your temporary license to drive legally. Your permanent license will arrive in the mail within 30 days. If you don’t receive your AL driver’s license after 30 days, contact the Department of Public Safety at (800) 499-1667.

Acceptable Identification Documents in Alabama

In the state of Alabama, you must have at least two forms of identification, with one identification document from the primary documents list.

Primary Documents

  • Certified U.S. birth certificate that is issued by an agency designated by state or federal authority
  • U.S. passport
  • Alabama ID card
  • Alabama driver’s license
  • Certificate of Naturalization
  • Certificate of Citizenship
  • U.S. Certificate of Birth Abroad
  • Resident alien card
  • Valid foreign passport with a valid U.S. immigration document

Secondary Documents

  • U.S. state-issued driver’s license or non-driver ID card
  • Current international driver’s license or permit
  • Marriage license
  • U.S. armed forces driver’s license
  • U.S. military DD-214
  • A professional license that is issued by a state or federal agency
  • Selective service card
  • Veterans administration card
  • Current medical insurance identification card
  • U.S. military ID card
  • ID card issued by a school with a photo
  • School enrollment form (DL-1/93)
  • Certified school record (GED certificate or Certificate of graduation)
  • W-2 tax form with a copy of the previous year’s W-2 filed forms (tax return)
  • Documents from the court of records
    • Divorce decree
    • Adoption decree
    • Name-change
    • Bankruptcy decree
  • Probation or release documents that are issued by a state or federal department of correction with a photo ID card that is issued by the same authority, or a felon ID card that is issued by the sheriff of the county of the applicant’s release

Additional Secondary Documents for Non-U.S. Citizens

  • Employment authorization document with a valid Social Security card
  • Valid visa (with supporting documentation) that authorizes your presence in the U.S. for a period exceeding 160 days
  • Valid I-94 arrival/departure record that is issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security
  • Original I-797 (notice of action) that is issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, evidencing timely filing of an extension petition

Obtaining an Alabama Driver’s License Under the Age of 18

Driver’s Education (Driver’s Ed) in Alabama is encouraged if your high school offers it. This education course provides information and the practice necessary to safely operate a motor vehicle. A state-approved Driver’s Ed course includes supervised driving instruction and classroom time that is evaluated by a certified instructor.

If you choose to complete the Alabama Driver’s Ed course, you will satisfy the mandatory 50 hours of supervised driving that is required to obtain your Alabama-restricted driver’s license.

Alabama Age Requirements and Exemptions

There are age requirements and exemptions for driver’s licenses in the state of Alabama.

  • 15 years old: eligible for a learner’s license
  • 16 years old: eligible for a restricted driver’s license (also known as a provisional driver’s license)
  • 17 years old: eligible for an unrestricted driver’s license (with a previous provisional driver’s license)
  • 18 years old: eligible for an unrestricted driver’s license (no learner’s permit or restricted license required)

Learner’s Permit Exemptions

In Alabama, you are not required to obtain a learner’s permit if you meet any of the following conditions:

  • You are 18 years old or older
  • You’re 17 years old or older and have obtained a valid driver’s license for at least 6 months without any traffic violations
  • You are at least 16 years old, married, and considered the head of your household
  • You’ve been legally relieved of minority status (being below the legal age)

If you fall into any of the above-listed categories, you can bypass the graduated driver’s license (GDL) requirements for a learner’s permit and apply directly for your Alabama unrestricted driver’s license.

Stage 1 Alabama Learner’s Permit

Before you can reach stage 1 of Alabama’s learner’s permit, you must first have an Alabama learner’s license or learner’s permit. You must be at least 15 years old to apply for this permit. Keep in mind the documents you require will differ based on your age at the time of application.

The stage 1 Alabama learner’s permit process is as follows:

  • Application steps
  • Driver’s Ed and behind-the-wheel requirements
  • Permit application
  • Driver’s Ed and behind-the-wheel requirements

Applying for Your Alabama Permit

To apply for your Alabama permit, you must visit your local Alabama driver’s license office. You need to be ready to submit the following documentation:

  • If you are 15 years old at the time of application:
    • Provide your original U.S. birth certificate
  • If you are 16 years old at the time of application:
    • Provide proof of identification (1 document is required to be a primary document) including either 2 documents, with 1 document that shows your photograph, or 3 documents (if you have no documents with your photo on them)
  • ALL Applicants, regardless of their age, are required to submit their:
    • Social security card
    • Proof of school enrollment or graduation, which can be:
      • GED or graduation certificate
      • Certified letter from your school stating your enrollment
  • Take the Alabama written knowledge exam
  • Pay the $5 testing fee and $36.25 license fee (checks are NOT accepted)

If you want a STAR ID permit, you must also provide proof of:

  • Alabama residency (2 documents)
    • School enrollment documentation or proof of residency from your parent (click here for a list of acceptable documentation in Alabama.)
  • Any changes

Once you have passed the Alabama DMV written permit test, you will receive your AL learner’s license, which is valid for 4 years. With your Alabama learner’s permit, you are allowed to practice driving when you are supervised by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, and who remains in the front passenger seat at all times.

You must attain your AL permit for at least 6 months before you can continue to stage 2: your restricted Alabama driver’s license.

Alabama Stage 2 Restricted Driver’s License

When you are at least 16 years old and have attained your AL learner’s permit for at least 6 months, you are eligible to take your AL DMV road test and apply for your restricted provisional license. You need to meet all requirements during your learner’s permit phase, including the completion of 50 hours of supervised driving or a state-approved Driver’s Ed course.

You need to make an appointment with your local AL DMV office with the following:

  • A reliable vehicle to complete your driving test
  • Proof of registration and insurance for the vehicle you’re using
  • Your parent or guardian to go with you to complete your test

Upgrading to an Alabama STAR ID License

If you didn’t receive a STAR ID learner’s permit, you can upgrade to a STAR ID license at this time if you choose to do so. Obtaining an Alabama STAR ID is not a requirement. However, if you choose not to apply for an AL STAR ID, you need to bring additional identification when you board an airplane or enter a federal facility.

If you’re interested in receiving an AL STAR ID, you need to visit your local AL DPS testing office and present:

  • Your valid learner’s permit
  • Your Social Security card
  • Proof of:
    • Identity (1 document must be a primary document) that includes 2 documents with 1 document showing your photograph or 3 documents, if you have no documentation that shows your photo. (If you didn’t get an AL STAR ID permit and would like to receive a STAR ID AL driver’s license, bring an additional 2 documents that prove your AL residency.)
  • School enrollment or graduation, which can be:
    • Enrollment/Exclusion Form (DL 1/93)
    • GED or graduation certificate
    • Certified letter from your school stating your enrollment
  • One of the following documents (either):
    • A Graduated Driver’s License Form (DL-31) signed by your parent or legal guardian certifying that you have completed 50 hours of behind-the-wheel training, and grants permission to drive unsupervised.
    • Proof of completion of a state-approved driver’s education course
  • Payment for the $36.25 Alabama driver’s license fee (this fee may be higher in some counties)

After you pass your driving test, you will receive your Alabama-restricted driver’s license. You are required to attain your AL license for a minimum of 6 months and reach the age of 17 before you can apply for a Stage 3 Alabama unrestricted driver’s license.

Stage 2 Driving Requirements and Restrictions

During the provisional license Stage 2, you are allowed to operate a motor vehicle unsupervised. However, you must adhere to the following restrictions:

  • You are not allowed to operate a motor vehicle between midnight and 6 AM UNLESS:
    • You are with your parent or guardian, or a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has been designated by your parent or guardian.
    • You are driving to or from school, work, church, or because of an emergency
    • You may only have 1 passenger other than your immediate family in the vehicle
    • You may not use a cell phone or any other handheld device while behind the wheel

Alabama Stage 3 Unrestricted Driver’s License

Once you reach 17 years old and have attained your Stage 2 provisional license for at least 6 months, you can apply for your unrestricted driver’s license.

You must visit your nearest AL driver’s license office and surrender your Stage 2 Alabama provisional license for the Stage 3 restriction-free driver’s license. The standard AL driver’s license fee is $36.25. However, most AL counties give a discount for transferring a Stage 2 license to a Stage 3 license.

Teens Who Are New to the State of Alabama

The Alabama Department of Public Safety (DPS) Driver’s License Department handles Alabama’s licensing processes. If you currently have a valid driver’s license from your previous state, you are required to transfer it to receive an Alabama driver’s license. You have 30 days after you establish residency in the state of Alabama to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license.

You will need to visit your local DPS driver’s license office and present:

  • Your out-of-state driver’s license
  • Social security card
  • Proof of your primary identification (birth certificate or U.S. passport)
  • One of the following proofs of school enrollment or graduation (if you are younger than 19 years old):
    • GED or graduation certificate
    • Certified letter from your school stating your enrollment
  • Payment for the $5 AL license transfer fee and the $36.25 driver’s license fee (checks are NOT allowed and these fees may vary by county.)

If you choose to apply for a federally compliant AL STAR ID, you must also bring proof of:

  • Alabama residency (2 documents are required)
    • Proving your residence as a teen can be difficult, so the state of Alabama accepts the school document you provide and proof of residency in your parent’s name. The AL driver’s license clerk will match your parent’s name with your birth certificate.
    • If you are old enough or in a situation where you have more than one proof of residency in your name, you can use Alabama’s list of acceptable documentation found here.
  • Name change (if applicable)

If you attain a learner’s permit from a different state, be prepared to follow all GDL driver’s licensing requirements to transfer a permit and/or earn an Alabama driver’s license. If you have questions or concerns, you can contact the AL DPS at (800) 499-1667.

Getting an Alabama Driver’s License as a New Resident

Welcome to the Heart of Dixie! As a new resident of Alabama, you must visit your local Alabama DPS office and apply for an AL driver’s license within 30 days of establishing AL residency.

You will follow the same process as you do when you apply for a standard AL driver’s license, EXCEPT:

  • The Alabama DPS doesn’t require driver testing for new-to-state drivers UNLESS your out-of-state license has expired for longer than 1 year.
  • Taking a vision exam
  • You will relinquish your out-of-state driver’s license
    • If your license is lost or stolen you must replace it or if your license has been suspended, revoked, or canceled, you must take the required steps for licensing when your license has been suspended.

Be advised that the testing requirements are at the discretion of the DPS examiner. You may be required to pass one or more tests depending on your unique situation. You can call your local Alabama DPS office for details that are specific to your situation.

The Alabama Written Exam and Road Test

Taking the Alabama Written Exam

The Alabama written exam has a total of 30 questions, 24 of which you must answer correctly to obtain a minimum passing score of 80%. The minimum age to apply to take the Alabama written exam is 15.

Taking the Alabama Road Test

When you take the Alabama road test, you will be tested on how well you can safely maneuver a motor vehicle. You will be asked to perform basic vehicle maneuvers, such as parking, using your turn signals, turning, following the speed limit, following Alabama traffic laws, and more.

Non-Commercial Driver’s Licenses in Alabama

In the state of Alabama, taxi drivers and chauffeurs are required to only have a standard, valid driver’s license, which is a Class D driver’s license in Alabama, and a business license to operate the vehicle.

Alabama Boat License

In Alabama, any individual who is at least 12 years old requires a Class V water vessel license to operate a motorboat.

To apply for an Alabama boat license, you must visit your local AL DPS office and:

  • Pass a written test, unless you are 40 years old or older on April 28, 1994.
  • Provide proof of your name and birth date, with documents that include:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • U.S. passport
    • Valid driver’s license
  • Provide proof of your social security number, with documents such as your:
    • Social Security card
    • W2 tax form
  • A secondary form of identification, with documents such as:
    • Military ID
    • A school ID
    • Court documents
  • Pay the $5 test fee
  • Pay the Class V fee

If you currently have an Alabama driver’s license, Class V will be added to your license. If you are younger than 14 years old, you can only obtain a water vessel learner’s license, which permits you to operate a boat when accompanied by an adult who is at least 21 years old and holds a vessel license.

Married, Divorced, or Name Change?

You may be asked to provide a name change document in the state of Alabama if you’re applying for a new AL driver’s license or identification card. You may be required to submit a name change document, such as a marriage license, to be issued a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or ID card in your true full name.

If the name that is shown on your identification document is different from the name you provided on your application, you must submit a document that establishes your true full name. Examples of documentation that establishes your true full name can include the following:

  • A marriage certificate
  • Adoption documents that contain the legal names as a result of the adoption
  • A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
  • A certificate, declaration, or registration document that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
  • A dissolution of marriage or domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of the court action

Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Alabama?

In the state of Alabama, REAL IDs are referred to as STAR IDs. Starting October 1, 2021, all U.S. citizens will need a passport or STAR ID (REAL ID) to:

  • Board a plane (including domestic flights)
  • Enter federal facilities
  • Enter nuclear power plants

To get a STAR ID in Alabama for the first time, you must visit an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Once you receive your Alabama STAR ID, you will renew this ID the same way you would renew a standard Alabama license or ID.

Is a STAR ID (REAL ID) Mandatory in Alabama?

Obtaining a STAR ID is not mandatory in the state of Alabama. If you have valid documents that are accepted by TSA, you can use these documents to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide and visit a secure federal building or military building at any time.

If you do not plan to board any domestic flights or visit a secure federal facility or military base, you are not required to have a STAR ID (REAL ID).

You aren’t required to attain a STAR ID or STAR driver’s license to perform any of the following actions:

  • Operate a motor vehicle
  • Vote
  • Enter a federal facility that does not require an ID (such as a post office)
  • Apply for or receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veterans Affair, etc.)
  • Visit a hospital or receive life-saving services

How Do You Prepare to Apply for a STAR ID (REAL ID) Card?

To get a REAL ID (STAR ID) in the state of Alabama, you must present different documents at an ALEA licensing office. You must provide:

  • Proof of identity and legal presence:
    • U.S. birth certificate
    • Valid U.S. passport
    • Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
  • Proof of Alabama residency (2 documents are required), which may include:
    • Your current Alabama driver’s license or ID
    • Tax return documents from last year
    • Utility bills (within the last 90 days)
  • Proof of your social security, which may include:
    • Social security card
    • Pay stub with your full name and social security number (SSN)
    • W-2 tax form
  • Proof of name change (IF your name does not match the names on other documents), which can include:
    • Marriage certificate
    • Divorce certificate
    • Court order for a legal name change
  • Payment for the applicable fee(s)

Click here for a complete list of acceptable documentation.

Alabama REAL ID (STAR ID) Fees

STAR ID fees may vary between licensing offices. The Alabama minimum STAR ID license fees are as follows:

  • Replacement non-driver ID – If you want to get your STAR ID before your current ID expires: $15
  • Replacement AL standard or motorcycle driver’s license – If you want your STAR ID before your current card expires: $31.25
  • STAR ID renewal – standard driver’s license or non-driver ID: $36.25
  • Class A renewal – $66.25
  • Class B renewal – $56.25

Keep in mind that this option will not renew your identification. Your new ID will expire the same day as your current ID.

Applying for a Commercial driver’s License in Alabama

Are you considering operating a semi-truck or other type of commercial vehicle? Congratulations! Driving a semi-truck or other type of commercial vehicle is an excellent way to make money, but if you’re going to do so, you must obtain a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Commercial vehicles are often larger and more difficult to drive than traditional cars and trucks. CDL holders are required to pass additional tests to earn their licenses. These drivers are also required to follow all regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Commercial drivers in Alabama will have to endure the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) for state-specific requirements.

Important Federal Training Requirements (Update)

Per the new federal entry-level driver training requirements that are effective February 7, 2022, the ALEA now mandates that new CDL applicants complete an entry-level driver training course through an authorized provider. You must complete this training BEFORE you can apply for your initial commercial driver’s license, upgrade your existing CDL class, or apply for a HAZMAT school bus or passenger endorsement.

Who Can Receive an Alabama CDL?

To qualify for a commercial driver’s license in Alabama, you are required to:

  • Currently attain a valid, non-CDL driver’s license
  • Have proof of legal presence in the U.S. If you’re not a citizen. You must present paperwork that proves you have legal permanent status AND are domiciled in Alabama.

If you intend on driving interstate routes (you intend to cross state lines), you are required to be at least 21 years old. If you have a CDL from a different state and want to transfer your CDL to a different state, you must show additional identification when you’re applying for your commercial driver’s license.

Alabama Commercial Learner’s Permits

Before you can obtain your Alabama CDL, you must get your Alabama commercial learner’s permit (CLP). To receive your CLP, you must schedule an appointment through the ALEA at an Alabama driver’s license office that handles CDLs. It’s a good idea for you to call ahead to make sure they provide CDL services.

You are required to pass all written exams for the classification of CDL you want. If you are applying for a hazardous materials (H) endorsement, you will need to take your federally mandated CDL training course before applying for your CLP.

You must bring the following documents to your appointment:

  • Your current driver’s license
  • Proof of your social security number (SSN)
    • Your social security card
    • U.S. military discharge/separation papers
    • Medicare/Medicaid cards
    • Tax forms
  • The proper medical forms
  • Your CDL training course proof of completion (if applying for a HAZMAT endorsement
  • Proof of legal presence in the U.S. (if you’re not a citizen)
  • The $25 testing fee (checks are NOT accepted)
  • The $36.25 fee to purchase your Alabama CLP

You must also submit to a driving record check. This driving record check covers the past 10 years of your driving history in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Documents for CDL Transfers

If you are transferring your out-of-state commercial driver’s license to the state of Alabama, you will be required to bring the above-listed documentation, as well as 1 primary document for identification purposes.

You are not allowed to use the same document to count as both your proof of SSN and primary document. The ALEA will accept the following as primary documentation:

  • Certified U.S. birth certificate
  • A U.S. passport
  • An Alabama identification card
  • An Alabama driver’s license

You can check here to view the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s full list of acceptable documents for your primary documentation.

If you want to transfer your hazardous materials endorsement or apply for a new one, you must also bring a Transportation Security Administration background check.

Alabama CLP Restrictions

Once you successfully pass the required exams, you will receive your AL commercial learner’s permit from the ALEA.

Per state and federal regulations, your CLP will only allow you to drive on public roads with a full CDL holder in the vehicle with you. You must attain your CLP for a certain time before you can take your road test for your full Alabama CDL. Federal laws require you to hold your CLP for at least 14 days. However, this time could be different for you. Make sure your local driver’s license office confirms what the holding period is in Alabama.

Getting an Alabama CDL

Once the required time has passed and you are comfortable enough while driving with your CLP, you must complete your federally required CDL entry-level driver training program (ELDT). This entry-level test is required for all CDL holders who are:

  • Applying for a new Class A or Class B commercial driver’s license
  • Upgrading an existing Class B CDL to a Class A license
  • Applying for a first-time passenger (P), school bus (S), or HAZMAT (H) endorsement

The entry-level driver’s training program will consist of both classroom and practical hands-on training. Your specific training provider will dictate how long your course will be. Once you complete your entry-level training program, you need to make a second appointment with your local Alabama driver’s license office to schedule your CDL skills/road test.

You must take this portion of the test in the same type of vehicle you plan on driving with your CDL. If you use a vehicle other than the vehicle you plan on driving with your CDL, you may receive a restriction on your Alabama CDL.

You must bring the following documentation with you to your appointment:

  • Your CLP
  • Your ELDT completion certificate (if applicable) – some course providers may electronically report your completion to the AL DMV.
  • Proof of insurance
  • Payment for the $20 AL skills test fee
  • The appropriate fee to purchase the class of CDL you want

CDL Medical Exams in Alabama

To be granted permission to operate a commercial vehicle, you must be medically qualified. Before you schedule your appointment to obtain your commercial learner’s permit, you must visit your doctor and have them complete the Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination (Form 649-F).

You must also declare your physical fitness to the state of Alabama through the self-certification process. To do so, you are required to complete the Self-Certification Affidavit Form found here and either:

  • Fax it to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency at (334) 353-1980
  • Submit the form directly to the ALEA online
  • Mail it to the ALEA at

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Driver License Department
CDL Unit P.O. Box 1471
Montgomery, AL 36102

Once you’re medically approved to operate a commercial vehicle, you will receive a Medical Examiner’s Card, which must be kept with you at all times while you’re operating a commercial vehicle.

Commercial Driver’s License Classifications

The FMCSA establishes different types of commercial driver’s licenses, each of which allows you to operate a different type of vehicle. These commercial driver’s license classifications include:

  • Class A (CDL) – available for multiple vehicles that weigh over a certain amount, such as a tractor-trailer.
  • Class B (CDL) – available for the operation of a single vehicle that weighs over a certain amount, such as a straight truck.
  • Class C (CDL) – Covers all types of vehicles that are not included in Class A or Class B CDL.

You will likely have to complete different exams depending on which classification of CDL you’re applying to operate.

CDL Endorsement and Restrictions

An endorsement is an additional certification you can add to your commercial driver’s license that allows you to operate a larger number of vehicles. You can apply for endorsement for driving:

  • HAZMAT vehicles
  • School buses and other large passenger vehicles
  • Double or triple trailers
  • Tanks

Be advised that if you are applying for a hazardous materials (HAZMAT) endorsement in Alabama, you are required to bring a background check that is conducted by the Transport Security Administration when you apply for your CLP. A restriction can be placed on your license which limits the number of types of vehicles you can operate.

CDL Fees in Alabama

The ALEA currently charges the following for CDLs and other related services:

  • Commercial learner’s permit testing fee: $25
  • Issuing a commercial learner’s permit: $36.25
  • Commercial driver’s license skills test: $20
  • Class A CDL: $66.25
  • Class B CDL: $56.25
  • Class C CDL: $36.25

If you’re transferring your out-of-state CDL to the state of Alabama, you may also be required to pay a $5 transfer fee that applies to other license classes.

Replacing Your CDL

If Alabama, if your CDL was lost or stolen, you must apply for a replacement CDL with the ALEA, and you can’t operate your commercial vehicle until you receive a replacement license. Make sure you report your lost CDL to your local law enforcement agency.

You can contact the CDL headquarters directly at (334) 242-4400 or contact your local CDL district office for instructions on obtaining a duplicate Alabama CDL.

Applying for an Alabama Motorcycle License

You must have a valid, current motorcycle license to operate a motorcycle in the state of Alabama.

Getting a Motorcycle License as a New Resident of Alabama

Welcome to Alabama! As a new resident of this state, you can surrender your out-of-state motorcycle license for an Alabama motorcycle license. You must take the following documentation to your local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office:

  • Your out-of-state driver’s license and/or motorcycle license (if your former state issued these licenses separately)
  • Your social security card
  • One primary form of identification
  • Payment for the $5 transfer fee and $36.25 license fee (checks are NOT allowed)

Alabama Motorcycle Age Requirements

If you are at least 14 years old, you are eligible for a motor-driven cycle license. If you are at least 16 years old, you are eligible for a Class M motorcycle license.

Motorcycle VS Motor-Driven Cycle

The Alabama DPS recognizes two classes of engine-equipped cycles, which are motor-driven cycles and motorcycles. It’s important that you understand the difference between the two bikes because some of the requirements for proper licensing and registration are bike-based.

A motor-driven cycle is defined as any motorcycle or motor scooter that has:

  • A motor that produces a maximum of 5 HP (hp)
  • An engine size of 150 CC (cc) or less
  • A weight that does not exceed 200 lbs. when fully equipped

A motorcycle is defined as being:

  • A motor vehicle that has a seat or saddle for the use of the rider
  • Designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground (excluding a tractor)

Earning Your Alabama Motorcycle or Motor-Driven Cycle License

To qualify to operate an Alabama motor-driven cycle license or motorcycle license, you must be at least 14 years old. The minimum age to apply for an Alabama motorcycle license is 16 years old.

You must have a motorcycle (M) endorsement on your license to legally operate a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle. To receive a motorcycle (M) endorsement, you must either pass the DPS motorcycle knowledge exam or complete a motorcycle safety course.

If you choose to take the knowledge exam, you must do the following:

  • Study the Alabama Motorcycle Operator’s Manual found here (REV 2014). You can get one at any DPS station, State Trooper office, Probate Judge, or License Commissioner Office.
  • Schedule an appointment to take the knowledge exam at your local Alabama DPS office

If you want to take the motorcycle safety course instead, you can call (800) 446-9227 or visit the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for more information by clicking here.

When you’re ready to apply for your (M) endorsement, take the following documents to your local AL DPS office:

  • Birth certificate
  • Social security card
  • One more form of secondary identification from the ALEA list found here
  • Applicants who are 15 years old are required to provide acceptable proof of school enrollment or graduation by providing any one of the following:
    • A certified letter from your school stating that you are enrolled
    • A GED or diploma

At the DPS, you must be prepared to take the written knowledge exam or present proof that you have completed a motorcycle safety course. You must also pay the $5 testing fee (if applicable) and the $36.25 licensing fee. Checks are NOT accepted.

Alabama Motorcycle License Riding Restrictions

Riders Who are 14 and 15 Years Old

Riders who are 14 and 15 years old will receive a Class M license with a “B” restriction. This restriction indicates that you are ONLY allowed to operate a motor-driven cycle. Once you turn 16 years old, you will be eligible to take the required exams for an unrestricted Class M motorcycle license. The Alabama Class M license is valid for 4 years.

Riders 16 Years and Older

If you’re at least 16 years old and have met the requirements and passed the tests, you will receive an Alabama unrestricted Class M driver’s license. This license allows you to legally operate either a motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle.

For any questions or concerns you may have regarding your motorcycle or motor-driven cycle license, contact your local AL DPS office by calling (800) 499-1667 or send your questions to:

Alabama Department of Public Safety
Driver License Department
P.O. Box 1471
Montgomery, AL 36102

Alabama DMV Locations

There are different DMV locations across the state of Alabama. You can visit these AL DMV locations to obtain your Alabama driver’s license and related services.

Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles – Birmingham Branch
908 Bankhead Hwy W
Birmingham, AL 35204
(205) 252-7445

Monday – Friday (7 AM – 4 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles – Montgomery Branch
2545 Taylor Road
Montgomery, AL 36117
(334) 242-9000

Monday – Friday (8 AM -5 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

Alabama Department of Motor Vehicles – Cullman Branch
500 2nd Ave SW
Cullman, AL 35055
(256) 775-4760

Monday – Friday (8 AM – 4:30 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

Driver’s License CDL – Tuscaloosa Branch
2645 Skyland Blvd E
Tuscaloosa, AL 35405
(205) 553-0729
Call for business hours

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