Alabama's first license stage is the Stage I learner license. You get it by passing the written exam run by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), based on the Alabama Driver Manual.
The test
- A written knowledge exam on Alabama traffic laws, road signs and safe driving, taken at an ALEA driver license office. Automated testing is available to every applicant.
- Exam fee: $5.
- The free Alabama mock tests on PassDriveTest use 30 questions with 24 needed (80%). Check the current format with ALEA.
A study plan that works
- Read the Alabama Driver Manual (free on alea.gov).
- Learn the signs on the Alabama road signs tab.
- Take full mock tests and review every wrong answer.
- Aim for 27 or more out of 30 on several different mock tests.
Stage I learner license rules
- From age 15. The learner license is valid for four years.
- Drive with a parent, legal guardian or licensed driver aged 21 or older in the front seat beside you, or with a licensed or certified driving instructor.
- From 16, after holding the learner license for six months (or at 18), you can take the road test. Under 18, bring a form showing at least 50 hours of practice, signed by a parent, grandparent, legal guardian or certified instructor.
Take a free Alabama mock test to see where you stand.
Checked against official sources on 17 October 2026.