Overview
This lecture covers essential Alabama permit and driver's license requirements, DMV test preparation, key traffic rules, and practical tips for new drivers.
Traffic Signs & Safe Driving Practices
- A black and yellow sharp turn sign indicates the road ahead changes direction at an extreme angle.
- Always yield to pedestrians, even if they are not following traffic laws.
- Leave extra following distance on slippery roads.
- Any amount of alcohol can impair judgment and coordination.
- Common crash causes include speeding and poor attention.
- Using a cell phone while driving distracts hands, eyes, and mind.
Documentation & Procedures
- Always carry your license, registration, and insurance when stopped by law enforcement.
- To get an Alabama driver's license, you need proof of identity, SSN, residency, and must pass vision, written, and road tests.
- Fees vary by license type and duration (e.g., Class D costs $36.25/four years).
- The written test costs $5.00 per attempt.
License Types & Age Requirements
- Minimum age for a learner's permit is 15; driver’s license is 16 (after holding permit for at least 6 months).
- Those under 18 need driver’s education and 30 hours of supervised driving (10 hours at night).
- Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) restricts when and with whom new drivers can drive until age 18.
Applying & Testing
- Schedule road tests online or by phone via the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
- Bring required documents and fees to the DMV for testing.
- Practice driving and know all traffic laws before testing.
- If you fail the driving test, wait at least 1 day before retaking; after three fails, wait 60 days.
Driving Test & License Renewal
- You may use your own or a rental car for the road test if it meets safety standards.
- Alabama licenses are valid for four years; renew online if eligible.
- Licenses for those under 21 expire on the 21st birthday; for those over 65, every two years.
Special Circumstances & FAQs
- International students must obtain an SSN, complete driver’s ed, and pass all tests.
- Vision must be at least 20/40 in one eye; corrective lenses required if needed for this acuity.
- Written tests are available in multiple languages; road signs may still be in English.
- Learner's permit holders have driving restrictions and may be subject to out-of-state rules.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Learner’s Permit — Temporary license for practice driving with supervision.
- GDL (Graduated Driver Licensing) — A system with phased privileges for new drivers.
- ALEA — Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, manages licensing.
- Class D License — Standard license for non-commercial vehicles.
- Visual Acuity — Sharpness of vision, minimum required is 20/40 in one eye.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Study the Alabama Driver’s Manual thoroughly.
- Complete required supervised driving hours.
- Schedule your DMV appointment online.
- Bring all required documents and payment for tests.
- Take practice tests to prepare for the written exam.