South · Learner’s License (Stage I)
How to get your learner’s permit in Alabama
Alabama issues a Stage I learner’s license at 15 after a knowledge test. Teens can move to a restricted Stage II license at 16 with either certified practice hours or an approved driver education course.
Alabama permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Learner’s License (Stage I) |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, or completion of an approved driver education course |
| Minimum holding period | 6 months (to move to a Stage II restricted license at 16) |
| Issuing agency | Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Alabama?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 6 months
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 43/100. Easiest in the South: Arkansas (#1) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? New Hampshire is the only state with no learner’s permit — teens practice at 15½ with a licensed adult, no paperwork first. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Alabama permit date · ⚔️ Compare Alabama with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Alabama
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Alabama driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Alabama’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Alabama residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Alabama requires 50 hours, or completion of an approved driver education course. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Alabama, that's 6 months (to move to a Stage II restricted license at 16). Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Alabama learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Alabama?
The minimum age is 15. Alabama calls this credential the Learner’s License (Stage I).
How many supervised driving hours does Alabama require?
Alabama requires 50 hours, or completion of an approved driver education course. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Alabama?
The minimum holding period is 6 months (to move to a Stage II restricted license at 16) before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Alabama?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Alabama an easy state to get licensed in?
Alabama ranks #18 of 50 on our Ease Score (43/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.