Understanding a state’s driving laws can help ensure a smooth and safe driving experience. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide on Alabama driving laws.
Alabama Licensing Requirements
To get an Alabama driver’s license:
- Go to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) website for detailed information.
- Gather the required documents, including at least two forms of identification, your social security card, two proofs of residence, and proof of car insurance.
- Visit your local ALEA office for document verification.
- Pass the vision, knowledge, and road skills tests.
To transfer an out-of-state license:
- Gather the required documents, including your out-of-state driver’s license, social security card, an approved alternate form of identification, and two proofs of residence.
- Visit an ALEA office within 30 days of moving to Alabama.
- Pass any required eye, written, or road test.
Alabama Driving Laws: Rules of the Road
While we can’t review all of the driving rules in Alabama, we’ve compiled a list of the ones we get asked about the most frequently.
Speed Limits:
- Interstate: 65 to 70 mph
- State Highway: 55 mph
- Urban Areas: generally, 25 to 30 mph
- Rural Areas: generally, 45 mph
Right-of-Way Rules and Yielding:
- At Intersections: Yield to the vehicle that approaches first or to the vehicle to the right if vehicles arrive at the same time.
- Four-way stops: Stop at a clearly marked stop line or before entering the intersection. Proceed if no hazard.
- Roundabouts: Yield to vehicles already in the circle.
Alabama’s Seatbelt and Child Restraint Laws Adherence Requirements:
- All motor vehicle riders must wear seat belts.
- Car or booster seats are a must until age six.
- Seatbelts are required for youth ages 6-15.
Cell Phone Do’s and Don’ts:
- Drivers cannot use handheld devices while driving.
- No texting while driving.
While cell phones are the most common form of distracted driving in Alabama, don’t forget that all forms of distracted driving are dangerous.
Special Considerations
DUIs and Consequences:
- Alabama Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limits:
- 0.08% for drivers 21 and older
- 0.02 for drivers under 21
- Violators face fines, license suspension, and imprisonment.
School Bus and Pedestrian Safety:
472 school bus accidents occurred in Alabama in 2023. School bus laws and pedestrian safety measures are also community safety issues.
- Always stop when a school bus displays flashing red lights.
- Watch for and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, especially in school zones.
Rules and Tips for Motorcycle and Bicycle Riders:
- Helmets are required for all motorcycle riders.
- Helmets aren’t required for adult bicycle riders, but anyone under 16 must wear one.
- All motorcycle and bike riders must learn and obey traffic rules.
Insurance Requirements in Alabama
The following is the minimum liability insurance coverage required in Alabama:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 per accident
- $25,000 for property damage
Proof of Insurance:
- Always have a paper or electronic copy of your insurance card in your vehicle.
- Show proof of insurance when requested by an officer or other government agent.
What happens when you don’t have proof?
- Fines
- License suspension
- Vehicle taken to impound
Resources for Further Information
- Alabama Dept of Transportation
- Alabama Traffic Crash Facts Booklet (state.al.us)
- Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (alea.gov)
- Online Services (alea.gov)
- AL Safety Portal (aladata.com)
Staying informed of local traffic laws can help you have a smooth, safe driving experience. However, if you have been injured because of someone’s negligence on Alabama’s roadways, please give the experienced attorneys at Timberlake, League & Brooks a call. Stay informed, stay aware, and above all, stay safe!
