How to Replace a Lost Alabama Driver’s License?
Driving in Alabama without your license is illegal.
Unfortunately, losing your Alabama license can happen as if you misplaced it. Or if you were the victim of a crime and had it stolen. Sometimes, your license may have become so damaged it’s not recognizable and useful as an ID.
Need to replace a lost Alabama license? Follow the steps below.
How Do You Replace a Driver’s License in Alabama?
You aren’t required to report a lost or stolen Alabama license with the state. But you should do so since someone may use it as part of identity theft.
Likewise, you cannot use a lost license as an excuse to replace it if it were expired, suspended, or revoked (you’ll need to do a license renewal instead).
ID Replacement in Person
You can replace your Alabama license in person if it’s lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use.
The steps involve doing the following:
- Visit a county court, probate judge, or commissioner’s office.
- Provide proof of ID:
- Option #1: 2 documents showing your identification & 1 document with your photograph
- Option #2: 3 documents declaring your identification if you cannot provide a photograph (ex., Marriage certificate, insurance card, etc.)
- Option #3 (Non-Citizens): A valid visa, employment document (with SSN), or I-94 form issued by the DHS
- Provide proof of Social Security number
- Pay the $30 to $40 license replacement fee
Completing these steps awards you a temporary license until the finalized one arrives by mail.
ID Replacement Online
You may apply for a replacement license, given it’s not expired or you hold a Star ID.
The steps involve doing the following:
- Visit the Alabama license portal
- Input your information
- Follow the on-screen prompts
- Pay the licensing fees
- Print your receipt
The receipt is your temporary license until the finalized one arrives by mail.
Make sure your driving records are correct (and updated) when replacing the license online, as they’ll send the new one to the address you have on file.
The online replacement process works if you’re currently out of state, too. Just make sure the address is correct when filing it this way.
Replacing a Lost Alabama License by Mail
In some instances, you may replace a lost license by mail.
Replacing by mail depends on your county.
The process typically involves getting in touch with your county licensing commission or finding their information online. Then, write a check for the replacement fees and send copies of your documents.
This option is appropriate if you’re out of state or deployed overseas in the military.
Questions & Answers
Below is a list of questions and answers on replacing a lost Alabama license.
Can You Renew a Star ID Online?
It is possible to renew a STAR ID and a CDL license online in Alabama. If you have already obtained a more secure STAR ID or a commercial license, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency will have your information on file. In such a case, you can renew your license online once in an eight-year period.
What Counts a Proof of Address in Alabama?
Below are some documents that can be used to prove residency:
- Utility bills such as water, gas, and electric
- School enrollment documents
- Could you provide me with any documents from a State or Federal Court that show your residential address?
How Do I Reprint My Alabama Drivers License?
To download or reprint your license, log in to the MV license system with your username and click on “My Application”. From there, go to “Docs” and click on the printer icon to download or reprint your license.
Summary
Replacing your Alabama driver’s license should be done right away if you lose it, to ensure that you can continue driving legally and avoid any future inconvenience. Furthermore, make sure that you keep your license safe and secure so that you don’t experience the hassle of having to obtain a new one. With patience, preparing the documentation, and paying the fees, you can replace your lost driver’s license with ease.
