Driver's License Offices To Close In April Statewide For Upgrades

MONTGOMERY, AL — Gov. Kay Ivey on Friday announced the unveiling of a modernized driver's license system that will provide significant improvements, but will also force the closure of driver's license offices statewide for at least a week.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License System, simply known as LEADS, will completely revitalize the current system, which has been in place for nearly two decades. In order to install the new system and new hardware, driver's license offices statewide must close beginning Monday, April 18, with plans to reopen Tuesday, April 26.

“This new system will consolidate multiple legacy systems into one integrated, modern system to further protect our citizens’ data and enhance customer service,” Ivey said. “I am proud of ALEA’s dedication to complete this crucial and extensive task to positively impact all citizens.”

In addition to the new hardware, a significant amount of data received since 1970 will be converted into LEADS. While offices will be closed temporarily to the public and online services will not be available during the transition period, ALEA Examiners will continue to administer Class D and CDL Road Skills Tests. County Offices will remain open but strictly for revenue and probate services.

Once LEADS goes live, citizens will have access to a variety of new options and such enhanced services as allowing individuals to pre-apply for the Alabama Driver License and enter all necessary information prior to visiting a local office, reducing wait times exponentially.

ALEA will offer expanded online services that will give drivers the following new services:

• Ability to update their addresses
• Ability to pay and reinstate their licenses
• Ability to upload U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Medical Cards
• Ability to view Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Hazmat background checks
• Ability to issue duplicate licenses to eligible foreign nationals
• Ability to pre-apply for individuals who are requesting an Alabama License for the first time