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Getting your first Alabama driver license

The steps in plain English. Each one links to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Driver License Division page it came from. Last checked Nov 15, 2026.

  1. If under 18, hold the learner license for at least six months.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  2. Log 50 hours of practice on the ALEA verification form signed by a parent or instructor, or finish an approved driver-ed course.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  3. Schedule the road skills test online (up to two weeks ahead) or walk in.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  4. Bring a safe, insured, registered vehicle; a 16-year-old must come with a parent or guardian.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  5. Pass the road skills test to get the Stage II restricted license ($36.25) and follow its limits.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

  6. At 17, after six months on Stage II, apply for the unrestricted Stage III license.

    Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

Check before you go: requirements and fees change, and some depend on your age or situation. The official page is the final word.

Related facts

Learner license (Stage I) fee
$36.25, plus the $5 knowledge test fee.Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
County differences
Fees can change and may be a little higher in counties whose local laws allow it.Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026
Road test vehicle
Bring a safe vehicle with working brake lights, turn signals and horn, plus proof of insurance and registration; a 16-year-old must come with a parent or guardian.Source: alea.gov · checked Nov 15, 2026

More in the Alabama guide

Learner licenseSteps and official links →RenewalSteps and official links →REAL IDSteps and official links →Moving to AlabamaSteps and official links →Lost or replacement licenseSteps and official links →

Official Alabama links

Agency home pagealea.gov ↗Appointmentsalabamadl.alea.gov ↗Driver handbookalea.gov ↗Driver handbook (PDF)alea.gov ↗Online renewalalabamadl.alea.gov ↗REAL IDalea.gov ↗Permit and first licensealea.gov ↗New residentsalea.gov ↗Feesalea.gov ↗

These links open official government websites. USA DMV is an independent study site and is not affiliated with any of them.

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Not a government website. USA DMV (usadmv.app) is an independent study resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by or operated by any state DMV, the Texas Department of Public Safety or any other government agency. Practice questions are written to reflect official driver handbooks but are not the official test questions. Always confirm current requirements with your state’s licensing agency.