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How to Get Your Alabama Permit License

The actual step-by-step process, from application to full license — not just what's on the exam. Confirm anything time-sensitive (fees, forms) with ALEA directly.

Under 18 (Three-Stage GDL)

  1. Apply for a Stage I learner's permit at 15

    Apply for an Alabama Stage I learner's permit at age 15, after passing the 30-question knowledge test (80%, 24 correct, $5 fee) and a vision screening.

    • Proof of identity and residency

  2. Drive only with a qualifying supervisor

    A parent, legal guardian, licensed driver 21 or older, or a certified driving instructor must be in the front seat whenever you drive on the Stage I permit.

  3. Log 50 hours of supervised driving

    Log at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.

  4. Hold the permit at least 6 months

    Alabama requires holding the Stage I learner's permit for at least 6 months before applying for a Stage II restricted license.

  5. Apply for your Stage II restricted license at 16

    Once you've turned 16 and met the holding-period and supervised-hour requirements, pass the road skills test to receive a Stage II restricted license.

    • Supervised driving log

  6. Follow Stage II restrictions if under 17

    No driving midnight-6 a.m., except for work, school, or religious activities. No more than one non-family passenger. No cell phone use of any kind while driving.

  7. Move to a Stage III full license at 17

    After holding the Stage II restricted license for at least 6 months and passing the road skills test, apply for a full, unrestricted Stage III license at 17.

18 and Older

  1. Apply for a Stage I learner's permit

    Apply for a learner's permit at a driver license office; the three-stage restrictions for minors don't apply to this path.

  2. Pass the knowledge test

    Pass the same 30-question knowledge test (80%, 24 correct, $5 fee) and a vision screening.

    • Proof of identity and residency

  3. Practice and pass the road test

    Practice driving under the terms of your learner's permit, then pass the road test to receive your license.

  4. Receive your full license

    Adult first-time applicants receive a standard, unrestricted license upon passing — Alabama's three-stage GDL structure applies specifically to applicants who start the process before turning 18.

Notes

  • Alabama's zero-tolerance law sets a BAC of 0.02% or higher as a violation for drivers under 21.
  • Alabama requires hands-free use for all drivers and bans texting while driving outright, on top of the total cell phone ban for Stage II holders under 17.
  • Exact fees and current procedures change over time — confirm the current process on the official ALEA website before your appointment.

Last reviewed: 2026-07-21