Key Notes from Alabama Driver's Manual

Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation

• When obtaining a driver’s license/ID card, individuals can register as organ donors.
• Being an organ donor signifies giving organs, eyes, and tissues for transplants.
• Registration should be communicated to family.
• Red heart symbol on a driver’s license indicates donor status.
• Removal from the registry can be done via www.registerme.org.

Donation Facts

• Registration does not affect medical care in emergencies.
• Respectful handling ensures no disfigurement; open casket funerals are possible.
• No age/health restrictions prevent donation.
• No financial cost to donor’s family/estate.

Governor’s Message

• Emphasizes safe and courteous driving, compliance with traffic laws, and seatbelt usage.

Chapter Summaries

Chapter 1: Your License to Drive

• Requirements for obtaining an Alabama driver’s license.
• Exemptions for federal employees, temporary residents, and students.
• Identification and documentation requirements.
• Learner and restricted licenses explained.
• Vision, knowledge, and road test details.

Chapter 2: You May Lose Your License

• Reasons for license cancellation, revocation, or suspension.
• The Alabama Point System for traffic violations and associated penalties.

Chapter 3: The Driving Task

• Good driving habits and posture.
• Rules for safe turning and sharing the road with bicycles and motorcycles.
• Parking rules, including on hills and prohibited areas.

Chapter 4: The Driver

• The impact of personality and emotions on driving.
• Dangers of distracted driving, particularly with cell phones.
• Effects of alcohol and drugs on driving ability.
• Instructions on handling various driving emergencies.

Chapter 5: Signs, Signals, and Road Markings

• Overview of traffic signs, including regulatory, warning, and informational signs.
• Explanation of pavement markings and their meanings.

Chapter 6: Traffic Laws

• Speed regulations and statutory speed limits.
• Guidelines for yielding, stopping, and passing.
• Enforcement of Alabama’s hands-free law and liability insurance requirements.

Chapter 7: Adjust to Driving Conditions

• Challenges of night driving, winter driving, and conditions like fog or hills.
• Tips on handling skidding and hydroplaning.

Chapter 8: Driving the Freeways

• Procedures for entering and exiting freeways safely.
• Types of freeway interchanges.

Chapter 9: Your Vehicle

• Essential vehicle equipment and maintenance.
• Importance of safety belts and proper tire care.

Additional Information

• Parent Teen Driving Agreement emphasizes obedience to driving laws, limiting distractions, and ensuring safety.
• Graduated Driver License Summary outlines conditions and restrictions for young drivers.
• Contact information for Alabama Driver’s License Offices and online services available through ALEA’s website.

This summary covers the essential guidelines and regulations for safe driving and vehicle operation in Alabama, emphasizing the importance of adherence to traffic laws and maintaining one’s vehicle in proper condition.