Alabama Hardship Driver’s License – How to Apply & Qualify?

A hardship driver’s license is a restricted license that allows limited driving privileges for Alabama residents whose regular driver’s license has been suspended or revoked.

This special license was established by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) in 2019 under Rule 760-X-1-.24. It helps eligible individuals legally drive to essential destinations like work, school, and medical appointments while working toward full reinstatement.

Who Qualifies for a Hardship License in Alabama?

You may qualify if you meet one or more of these criteria:

• You were recently released from the Alabama Department of Corrections.
• You are in a community corrections or work-release program.
• Your driver’s license is suspended or revoked, and you can prove that you lack reasonable transportation.

Who Is Not Eligible?

You generally cannot qualify if you:

• Have a DUI conviction under Ala. Code § 32-5A-191.
• Are medically ineligible for a Class D driver’s license.
• Have a suspension/revocation for a serious traffic or criminal offense.

📘 Reference: Alabama Administrative Code Rule 760-X-1-.24

Where You Can Drive With a Hardship License

A hardship driver’s license allows driving only for essential purposes, including:

Employment-Related Travel

• To and from work, job training, or job interviews.

Education

• To a school, college, or child-care facility where you or a dependent are enrolled.
• To school-sanctioned events like graduations or athletic events.

Medical Needs

• To medical or mental-health facilities or pharmacies.

Legal & Civic Obligations

• To court appearances, probation meetings, or community service.
• To polling places for voting.

Religious Services & Household Needs

• To places of worship and related activities.
• To stores for groceries or essential household errands.

Restrictions You Must Follow

• You can drive only within Alabama.
• Commercial driving (CDL use) is prohibited.
• You must maintain valid auto insurance.
• Any violation of license conditions can result in immediate revocation.

How to Apply for a Hardship License in Alabama (Step-by-Step)

1. Verify Eligibility

Ensure you meet at least one qualifying category and have no disqualifying offenses.

2. Prepare Documentation

You’ll need:

• Completed ALEA Hardship License Application
• Proof of hardship or inability to obtain reasonable transportation
• Vehicle & insurance details
• List of travel destinations, routes, and times
• Supporting documents (e.g., letter from correctional or work-release program)

3. Submit to ALEA

Send your completed application:
📧 Email: hardship.license@alea.gov
📠 Fax: 334-353-9988
📬 Mail: ALEA Driver License Division – Hardship License Unit, PO Box 1471, Montgomery, AL 36102

Official info: ALEA Hardship Driver License Page

4. Wait for Approval

If ALEA approves your request, you’ll receive a letter. You must visit a local ALEA office within 60 days to get your physical hardship license.

5. Maintain Compliance

Always obey all restrictions and keep insurance active. Violations can lead to revocation or additional penalties.

Cost and Validity Period

• Cost: $36.25 (same as a Class D driver’s license)
• Validity: 4 years
• Renewal: You can reapply within 6 months of expiration if you show “good cause.”

Is a Hardship License Right for You?

Pros:

• Legal way to drive while suspended or revoked
• Helps maintain employment or education access
• Supports family and medical obligations

Cons:

• Strict travel limitations
• Alabama-only validity
• Not a substitute for full reinstatement

Recent 2025 Updates

• Updated administrative guidance clarifies eligible categories and duration.
• ALEA emphasizes full documentation for “reasonable transportation” claims.
• Cost remains the same as of 2025, but enforcement scrutiny has increased.

Get Help From an Alabama License Suspension Lawyer

Navigating the hardship license process can be confusing and document-heavy. If you need help, we recomemnd that you contact the Alabama bar attorney referral service and ask for the name of an attorney in your area that handles license suspension matters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I get a hardship license after a DUI in Alabama?
No. Individuals with a DUI conviction under § 32-5A-191 are ineligible.

2. Can I drive out of state with an Alabama hardship license?
No. It’s valid only within Alabama.

3. How long does it take to get approved?
Processing typically takes a few weeks, depending on documentation and case volume.

4. What happens if I violate hardship restrictions?
ALEA can immediately revoke your license, and additional penalties may apply.

Fob James, IV

Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large national firm for several years, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society. Many of Fob’s cases are high profile and have been featured in, among others: Bloomberg News, PlanAdvisor, AL.com, PlanSponsor, InsuranceJournal, and BusinessInsider. For his work in obtaining numerous multi-million dollar outcomes for his clients, Fob has been recognized by: National Trial Lawyers Top 100, SuperLawyers Rising Star (2020-2025), Birmingham Business Journal Who’s Who in Law (2023-2025), and TrustAnalytica – Top Personal Injury Lawyers in Alabama.