Houston County Licenses

Welcome to Houston County Licenses, your trusted local government office for all your licensing needs in Dothan, Alabama. Conveniently located on the first floor of the Houston County Administration Building at 462 North Oates Street, we are here to assist you with a variety of services related to driver and identification licenses.

Whether you're applying for a new driver license, learner's permit, ID card, motorcycle operator license, or boat operator's license, our office collaborates with the State DPS driver's license examiner to ensure you meet the necessary requirements set by the Alabama Department of Public Safety. If you're transferring an out-of-state driver license to Alabama, approval from the State DPS is also required.

For those looking to renew their Alabama driver license or replace a lost one, the Houston County License Division offers a streamlined process. Please note that while CDL with Hazmat renewals must be completed at the State DPS Office, most other services can be handled right here. The fee for a replacement license is $36.25, and renewing your license extends your expiration date by four years for a fee of $41.25.

Alabama law provides a 60-day grace period beyond your license's expiration date, allowing you to operate your vehicle without citation. However, we recommend renewing your license before traveling out-of-state or boarding a commercial flight, as officials may not recognize this grace period.

Nonresidents with a valid driver license from another state have 30 days to obtain an Alabama license upon becoming residents. Certain exceptions apply for students and military personnel. For detailed information on required documents and to download the driver license manual, please visit the Alabama Department of Public Safety's website.

If you need to update your driver license due to a name change, specific documentation is required, and Real ID compliant licenses must be updated at the Alabama State Trooper's Office. Since 2012, Alabama has offered the STAR ID program, which complies with the federal REAL-ID Act. From May 7, 2025, a STAR ID or valid US passport will be necessary for domestic flights and federal facility access.

Alabama Veterans can display proof of military service on their driver license since May 1, 2013. For any questions or further assistance, please call us at 334-677-4742. Stay informed by signing up for notifications on meeting agendas, job openings, and more. Houston County Licenses is committed to providing efficient and friendly service to meet all your licensing needs.