Alabama Driver Manual Chapter 1

Alabama Driver ManualChapter 1 Your License to Drive

Your License To Drive Alabama Law states that every person, (with some exceptions) who operates a motor vehicle on public streets and roadways must be licensed. THE ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ISSUES DRIVERS LICENSES

License Requirements Every Alabama resident who operates any motor vehicle (except a farm tractor or implement of husbandry temporarily upon any street or highway) must have a driver license. All applicants who have not been licensed in Alabama or those who had their license expired for over 3 years must pass the required exam. A person with an out of state license not expired over 1 year does not have to pass a driver examination

An Alabama Drivers License is Not Required for: • Employees of U.S. Federal Government who drive/operate U.S. Government owned or leased motor vehicles. • Any person while driving any farm tractor of husbandry temporarily moved or operated on a highway • A 16 year resident who has possession of a valid drivers license from his own state or country. Includes military personnel and their families stationed in Alabama, regardless of how long they stay in Alabama. • A non-resident at 16 years old whose home country does not require licensing of drivers may operate a motor vehicle as a driver of not more than 90 days in any calendar year, if the vehicle operated is duly registered for the current year in the home country of the non-resident. • Any non-resident full time student properly enrolled and registered in a school, college, university, or trade school in this state, who holds a valid license from his home state or country. • A non-resident who has a valid drivers license from the state of previous residence may drive without an Alabama license for 30 days after becoming a resident of the state.

Who Cannot Be Licensed • Persons under 16 years of age. • Any person whose driving rights or privilege is suspended or revoked in any state. • Any person afflicted with or suffering from a physical or mental impairment which, in the opinion of the Director of Public Safety or examining officer , will prevent such person from exercising reasonable and ordinary control over a motor vehicle. • Any person failing to pass the examination when required. • Any person who is a habitual drunkard or addicted to the use of narcotic drugs. • Any person who is under the Age of 19 that is not in compliance with Alabama Act 93-368, which requires secondary school graduation or current attendance , with limited exclusions.

Authorized Presence Identification Requirements • Present 2 forms of identification, at least one of which contains a photograph (one must be from the primary listing) • Present three forms of non-photo identification (one form must be from the “Primary Listing”) • Applicants transferring an Out of State driver license must present their Out of State drivers license, Social Security card (or one of the other acceptable documents for social security number) AND one other form from the “Primary Listing”.

Legal Date of Birth Requirements • All applicants for any type of license or ID card must meet age requirements relevant to the license. • A record existing on the driver license database, as a result of a previously issued Alabama driver license or Alabama non-driver identification card may be considered proof of birth date. If no such record exist, only an original or certified copy of one of the “Primary Listed” documents could be accepted as proof of birth date.

Documentation Requirements • 1. Only a document, which is an original or a copy certified by the issuing agency, will be accepted. If a document is a copy, the certification attached to it must be original.2. A document would be unacceptable if: a. Correction fluid (white-out) has been used on pertinent information. b. Erasure markings appear on pertinent information c. Pertinent Information is missing d. Pertinent Information is illegible. e. Alterations appear in pertinent information f. A fold, crease, tear or hole obliterates or distorts pertinent information g. A staple obliterates or distorts pertinent information. h. The document is not properly signed.

Social Security Number Requirements • Proof of Social Security number must be present by the applicant under the following circumstances, unless the number is already in the database: a. When applying for any class driver license, driver license renewal, vessel license, or non-driver identification card, whether or not the applicant wishes to have the number appear on the license

Social Security Number Requirements Cont’d • An original of one of the following documents is required as proof of a Social Security number: • Social Security Card • A certified letter from the Social Security Administration stating the person name and Social Security number • W2 Tax Form

Notarization Requirements • Notarized Documents must meet the following requirements: a. The notary’s seal or stamp must be affixed to the document and must be legible. b. The notary’s name must be legible. c. The notary’s signature must be present d. The complete date that the notary’s commission expires must be legible and must have been current on the day the document was notarized. e. The state in which the notary is commissioned must be legible.

Acceptable documentation for proof of name, date of birth, and authorized presence documents must be original or copies certified by issuing agency.

DOCUMENTATION EXAMPLES PRIMARY US Birth Certificate** US Passport Alabama ID Card Alabama Driver License Cert. of Naturalization Cert. of Citizenship US Cert. of Birth Abroad Resident Alien Card Social Security Card*** Valid Foreign Passport ** Required for all 15 yr old ***Required for all applicants SECONDARY Driver License issued in US International License School ID with Photo School Enrollment Form W2 Tax Form Court Documents: Adoption, Name Change All applicants under the age of 19 must present a current Student Enrollment Form (DL-1-93)

Foreign Examinations • Driver license written examinations are available in foreign languages: • Arabic, Chinese, Farsi, French, German, Greek, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, Thai and Vietnamese. Information is available at DPS district offices.

Hearing Impaired Examinations • Available using the American Sign Language. • Automated testing equipment only at certain Driver Licenses offices. • Information on test administration at local DPS Offices.

Oral Examinations • Available for applicants that are unable to read and comprehend the knowledge tests. • Oral examinations may be administered using automated testing equipment.

Driver License • Must be at least 16 years of age • Must have had a Valid Learner License for 6 months (180 DAYS) • Developed the skills necessary to safely operate a motor vehicle • Pass the road test of driving skills • The “Y” restriction will be removed. • There is no cost to the applicant.

Motor Driven Cycle License- 14 or 15 years of age • May obtain a restricted license to operate a motor driven cycle weighing not more than 200 lbs. nor exceeding 150cc engine displacement • Upon passing exam would be issued a class M Alabama Drivers License with a “B” restriction • “B” restriction indicates holder may operate a motor driven cycle only. • This license is valid for four year.

Motor Cycle License- 16 years or Older • May obtain a license to operate a motor cycle. • The exam is taken from the Alabama Motorcycle Manual. • Motor cycle defined as a motor vehicle, having a seat or saddle for use of rider. • Designed not to travel with no more than 3 wheels with contact to ground. • Upon passing exam applicant will be issued a Class M Alabama Drivers License. • Class M- indicates Motor Cycle only. • The license is valid for four years.

Vessel License • Any person 12 years of age or older may obtain a vessel license upon passing the required exam. • Or present an approved certificate of completion of a Boating Safety Course. • Applicants must meet identification requirements.

Vision Screening • Those who wear corrective lenses must wear them during road test. • If vision exam is failed, applicant will be required to have eyes examined by an eye specialist • If, as a result of the vision exam, it is found that corrective lenses are needed, then a restriction for corrective lens will be applied to license. • If vision report shows applicant can see well enough to operate a motor vehicle safely, then applicant can finish remainder of test.

Knowledge Test • Written test and vision screening. $5.00 Cash only. 30 multiple choice questions, can miss up to 6 questions. • Test from material in Alabama Driver Manual on Alabama traffic laws, road signs, and road rules of safe driving • Tests for a Motor driven cycle license, Motorcycle License, or a boating license is $5 per test and must also be paid in cash. • A license fee of $23.50 is also required for the learner license. • Manual available in digital format at http://www.dps.state.al.us. • If applying for a learners license and pass the knowledge test, you will be issued a learners license, after paying required fees. • If applying for a regular license and pass the road test, you will be issued your license, no additional fee is required, unless adding another endorsement. • If applying for motor driven cycle and learners license, both examinations are required

Road Test The road test is the final step toward qualifying for the PRIVILEGE of driving on public streets and highways. • DPS officer will administer road test. • Applicant must furnish a vehicle that meets Alabama safety requirements . • 16 year olds must be accompanied by parent or guardian. • 17 year olds do not have to be accompanied by a parent or guardian • Examiner will check vehicle before road test to determine if vehicle in safe operating condition, if not, no exam. • Required equipment includes: Rear View Mirror, Horn, Windshield Wipers, Two Separate Methods of applying brakes, muffler, headlights, tail lights, valid license plate, stop light, directional signals, seatbelt, and, if applicable, window tint compliance sticker. • The license examiner may refuse to test in the event of hazardous weather, road conditions, or inability to communicate

Required Maneuvers for Road Test • Right and left turns • Signaling • Use of marked and unmarked lanes • Backing • Observance of traffic signs and signals • Quick stop • General control of vehicle • Observation • 3 point turn • Parking on a hill

Causes for Immediate Failure • Violation of traffic law • A dangerous action • Any preventable accident • Lack of cooperation • Refusal to perform any maneuver Unless you have a legal right to drive in Alabama, you must be accompanied by a license driver to drive the vehicle away if failure occurs

LICENSE TEST When you have passed all tests, had your photo taken and paid the required fees, you will receive a temporary license with your photo that gives you the privilege of driving a motor vehicle. You will receive your permanent license by mail. The license must be carried on your person at all times while driving.

License FeesSubject to change and will be slightly higher in counties where local legislation permits a higher fee.

Minimum Age Requirments for Drivers License and Non Driver Identification • Identification Card No Age Requirement • Class D Learner License 15 years old • Class D 16 years old • Motor Driven Cycle 14 years old • Vessel License 12 years old

Why would you be Re-Examined?What do you do? • Physical or mental impairment that might affect your driving ability. • You could be required to furnish a statement from you doctor. • You might be required to appear before a driver license examiner at any time. • Penalty for not showing up for re-evaluation or not providing proper documentation could result in revocation of you license (you will have to reapply).

What is an Identification Card? • A citizen of Alabama may apply to the local driver license examiner for a non-driver identification card. • The same degree of proof of identification required is the same as for a drivers license. • Identification cards are issued to applicants who do not physically qualify for a drivers license, do not have a current Alabama drivers license or who wish to discontinue driving and surrender their license. • The identification card bears a number and the name, date of birth, address, description of individual and a color photo.

Renewing Your License • Expires four years after it is issued. • Expiration date is listed on license. • May be renewed at any time within 60 days prior to expiration at a cost of $23.50. • Alabama law provides a grace period of 60 days after expiration date of a drivers license for the purpose of driver license renewal and the driver license shall be valid for this period of time. • A person can renew a license within a 3 year period after expiration without being re-examined. It is illegal to drive with this license during this period of time.

Duplicate License • If your license is lost, destroyed, or becomes illegible, but has not yet expired, you should apply for a duplicate license at your Probate Judge or License Commissioner Office. • No examination is necessary. • Proof of identity such as a certified birth certificate is required at time of application. • The cost for a duplicate license is $18.50.

Change of Name, Address • If you wish to change your name, you should present proper documents (marriage certificate or court order) • A duplicate fee will be charged for a corrected license • After changing your address within Alabama, you have 30 days in which to notify the Driver License Division • Confirm your correct mailing address as licenses ARE NOT forwarded.

Organ Donor Program • The Alabama Organ Center (AOC) is the federally designated organ procurement organization for the state of Alabama. • The AOC encourages all Alabamians to make an informed decision about organ and tissue donation. • Anyone can register. • Share your decision with your family. • If you are under the age of 18, you can register your wishes to be a donor, but a parent’s consent is required for donation to take place.

VESSEL LICENSE AS of 1994, operator certification is required of all operators of motorized watercrafts. Persons 12 years of age and older may obtain a vessel license and operate a vessel ONLY with an adult on board who is 21 years of age or older who has a valid vessel license and can take immediate control of the vessel. A licensed operator, 14 years of older, may operate a vessel alone.

STAR ID In response to acts of terrorism committed against the United States, and in an effort to ensure the safety of citizens, Congress passed the REAL-ID Act of 2005. This legislation modified U.S. federal law pertaining to security, authentication, and issuance procedure standards for state driver licenses and identification cards. To comply, Alabama developed the STAR I.D. STAR I.D. is a step beyond the normal license or ID card and meets federal requirements.

STAR ID S – Secure T – Trusted A – And R – Reliable IDentification

STAR I.D. Will go effect for those born after Dec. 1, 1964 on Dec. 1, 2014. For those born on or before that date, the new regulation will be effective Dec. 1, 2017. Available at local DPS offices (not probate offices).

STAR ID • Students will need to supply these documents: • Certified Birth Certificate • Social Security Card • School Enrollment form And another form to verify proof of address (from parent). Examples: Voter registration card, mortgage contract, lease or rental agreement, payment of property tax, previous year tax returns, vehicle registration, utility bill, homeowners insurance policy, etc.

GRADUATED DRIVER LICENSE ALABAMA 2012

Graduated Driver License It does not apply to: Individuals 18 years of age or older. Individuals 17 years of age who have had a valid drivers license for 6 months or longer. Individuals who are 16 years of age or older who are married or the head of the house hold. Individuals who have been legally relieved of minority status. A person under the age of 18 may not apply for a unrestricted drivers license until that person has held a learners license for at least a 6 month period with no violations of the restriction.

Stage 1 Learner License Must be fifteen years of age or older. Must complete and pass a written exam Authorizes a teen to drive when accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or licensed driver who is 21 years of age or older, riding in the front seat. Authorizes a teen to drive when accompanied by a licensed or certified instructor riding in the front seat Must complete 30 hours of supervised practice driving OR complete driver education. Mandatory 6 month (180 days) holding period before the teen can move on to the next stage.

Stage 2 Restricted License Must be 16 years of age or older. Must have permission from parent or legal guardian. Must complete and pass road skill exam. Must not have more than one passenger in the vehicle other than the parent, legal guardian, or family member. Must not use any hand held communication devices while driving. Must not drive during hours from midnight to six a.m. unless accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or licensed driver who is age 21 or older and with parental consent.

Exemptions for Stage 2 Going to and from work. Going to or from a school sponsored or religion sponsored event. Driving due to medical, fire, or law enforcement emergency. Driving to and from hunting and fishing activities and show possession of required license.

Stage 3 Unrestricted License Must be 17 years of age or older. Must have stage 2 license for at least 6 months before applying for stage 3 license. Individuals who are 18 or older may apply immediately for a stage 3 license (passing grade on road skills exam is required).

Enforcement Violation of above conditions will cost a license to be guilty of a traffic violation but will not be subject to any criminal penalties or court cost. No citation or points will be assessed. In violation: 1st offense can be restrictions extended for six months or until 18 years of age. 2nd offense- 4 or more points can be assessed and license suspended for sixty days or until 18.

Alabama Driver Manual Chapter 1