Alabama is to get a new statewide driver’s license system in spring of 2022, Gov. Kay Ivey’s office has announced. Drivers license offices statewide are to close April 18 to install the new system, and are slated to reopen 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 in a statement. “I am proud of ALEA’s dedication to complete this crucial and extensive task to positively impact all citizens.”
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Secretary Hal Taylor said in a statement the state’s upcoming new driver’s license system, known as LEADS, is a tangible example of ALEA’s continued focus on improving customer service, communication and technology to effectively achieve the Agency’s mission of providing quality service for all.
“We are excited to join Governor Ivey in this announcement, and we would like to thank her and all members of the Legislature for continuously supporting our Agency and providing us with the necessary resources to complete such a monumental and historic project for the state of Alabama,” Taylor said.
Along with new hardware, the state’s data collected since 1970 is to be converted into LEADS, Ivey’s office said in the announcement
“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,” the statement reads.
“ALEA’s Driver License Division has worked diligently at the direction of Chief Jonathan Archer to meticulously improve technology and processes at every level within the new system,” said Colonel Jimmy Helms, ALEA’s director of Department of Public Safety in a statement. “LEADS will streamline and speed up the process, benefiting both customers and personnel. We want everyone to recognize that when LEADS makes its debut in spring of 2022, it will not only bring about changes to the division, but all county offices that issue driver licenses will be affected as well.”
Once up and operating, the new system will allow for enhanced services including the ability to pre-apply for the Alabama driver’s license and enter all required information prior to visiting a local office, the statement reads.
Once LEADS goes live, ALEA will offer expanded online services to include but not limited to:
- 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
