JCCEO Community Resource Directory (CRD)
- Alabama Hardship Drivers License Renewal
A new law by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) could reinstate the driver's licenses for nearly 20,000 Alabamians, whose licenses were suspended, for an inability to pay traffic tickets. Watch the video below and click on the tab to download the form.
ALEA Hardship Drivers License Law
Click the tab below to download the Hardship License Application
Hardship License Frequently Asked Questions
A Hardship Driver License shall have an initial validity period of one year. At the end of the first-year validity period, the hardship driver license may be renewed annually for a maximum of three additional consecutive years, at no additional cost, if the Hardship Driver Licensee meets all requirements for renewal.
A Hardship license applicant will have to reapply annually if the applicant is making progress (good cause) to clear issues/tickets from their driving record, the license will be renewed for free (for up to 3 years). Good cause includes, but is not limited to, demonstrable reentry efforts of the applicant and/or progress towards resolving issues preventing the applicant’s unrestricted driver license reinstatement.
How do I apply for a Hardship?
Applicants must go download the Application for Hardship License. The application requires additional documentation in order for the applicant to be considered.
Can I apply in person for a Hardship License?
No, all Hardship license applications must be submitted via email (hardship.license@alea.gov), via fax 334-353-9988 or by mail: ALEA Driver License Division- Hardship License Unit PO Box 1471 Montgomery, AL 36102.
How does the application process work?
The applications will be reviewed to determine eligibility based on the administrative rules.
How long does it take to obtain approval?
Applications are reviewed upon receipt; approval time will vary case by case.
What do I after I have been approved for a Hardship License?
Approved Hardship license applicants will receive an approval letter in the mail from ALEA. The applicant will have 30 days to visit an ALEA Driver License office (with their approval letter) to have the Hardship license issued. Applicants may have to retest.
Can I go to my county probate office or online to obtain my hardship license?
No, only ALEA Driver License offices can issue a hardship Driver's License.
How will I know if my application has been approved?
All applications will be processed by a reviewing officer, and if an applicant is approved, denied, or simply needs additional documentation. They will receive a letter in the mail regarding their individual applicant.
Who is ineligible for a hardship license?
Persons who are considered a risk to public safety: Persons whose driver license is currently suspended or revoked for a serious traffic offense pursuant to Title 32 of the Code of Alabama
Examples of Serious Traffic Offenses: Manslaughter of Homicide by Vehicle, any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle was used, LSA with death or serious personal injury, convicted of fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, this is not an exclusive list, for more information see Alabama Code.
A person who has been adjudicated or convicted of DUI under Alabama Code Section 32-5A-191 is not eligible to apply for a hardship license.
Can I drive a Commercial Motor Vehicle with a Hardship License?
No, a Hardship license holder will not be allowed Commercial driving privileges.
No, a Hardship license applicant will not be approved for a driver who is medically ineligible for a Class D Driver License as provided by law.
Can my Hardship license be suspended/revoked?
Yes, a Hardship Driver License shall be subject to those rules pertaining to the suspension and revocation of a driver license under the point system pursuant to Alabama Administrative Code Section 760-x-1-.07 and Hardship Administrative Rules.
Is my Alabama Hardship License valid in other states? Can I drive in other states with this license?
No, an Alabama Hardship License is only valid in Alabama.
