Alabama Driver Manual Summary (Feb 2021)

Organ, Eye, and Tissue Donation

• Registration: Possible when obtaining a new driver's license.
• Significance: Offers a chance to save lives; indicated by a red heart on the driver license.
• Myths: Clarifications about affecting medical care, body disfigurement, family charges, and registration formalities.
• Legacy of Hope: Call 1-800-252-3677 for questions.

Safety and Driving Etiquette

Governor's Message

• Importance: Obeying traffic laws and practicing safety.
• Safety Measures: Seat belts, appropriate car seats, no impaired driving.

Secretary's Message

• Driving as a Privilege: Emphasizes responsibility and avoidance of distractions.
• Seat Belts: Mandatory for safety.

Licensing Information

License Requirements

• Who Needs a License: All Alabama residents operating motor vehicles.
• Exemptions: Federal employees, military personnel, non-residents under specific conditions.

Identification Requirements

• Documents: Two forms of ID, with at least one photo ID.
• Social Security Number: Proof required for license application.

Learner and Restricted Licenses

• Age Restrictions: 15+ for Learner License, 16+ for Driver License.
• Tests: Knowledge and Road Tests required.

Traffic Laws and Penalties

License Revocation and Suspension

• Causes: Specific violations like DUI, habitual offenses.
• Alabama Point System: Points for different traffic offenses leading to suspension.

Traffic Safety

• Good Driving Habits: Importance of courtesy and adherence to traffic rules.
• Sharing the Road: Special attention needed for bicycles, motorcycles, and large vehicles.

Signs and Markings

Types of Traffic Signs

• Regulatory: Must be obeyed; includes stop, yield, speed limits.
• Warning: Alerts to road conditions; typically yellow or orange.
• Informational: Directional guidance, services available.

Road Markings

• Centerlines, Crosswalks: Indicate traffic flow and pedestrian zones.

Emergency Situations

Driving Emergencies

• Actions: Steps to take during blowouts, brake failure, and other emergencies.

Railroad Safety

• Caution: Stop at crossings with signals, never race a train.

Adjusting to Conditions

Night Driving

• Visibility: Challenges due to glare and limited vision.
• Headlight Use: Proper dimming required.

Inclement Weather

• Precautions: Slower speeds, adequate following distances on wet or icy roads.

Vehicle Maintenance and Regulations

Required Equipment

• Brakes, Lights, Wipers: Must be in good working condition.
• Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers.

Maintenance

• Regular Checks: Essential for safety, including tires and brakes.

Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program

Restrictions

• Under 18: Limitations on passengers, nighttime driving.
• Enforcement: Penalties for violation of GDL restrictions.

Contact Information

• Driver License Division: Various offices across Alabama for licensing services.

• Website: ALEA Website for updates and online services.
• Contact: For inquiries or appointments, call (334) 242-4400 or visit the ALEA website.