MONTGOMERY, Ala. – On Friday, Feb. 4, Gov. Kay Ivey announced that Alabama is adopting a new driver license system that is scheduled to go into effect on Tuesday, April 26.
LEADS, which stands for Alabama’s new Law Enforcement Agency Driver License System, will take over for the old variety of systems that have been in place for nearly 20 years.
“This new system will consolidate multiple legacy systems into one integrated, modern system to further protect our citizens’ data and enhance customer service,” said Gov. Ivey. “I am proud of ALEA’s (Alabama Law Enforcement Agency) dedication to complete this crucial and extensive task to positively impact all citizens.”
In order to accommodate the change, all driver license offices in the state will temporarily close from Monday, April 18 until the expected day of the new system implementation, April 26.
LEADS will create a variety of new changes to enhance services online for both registered citizens and the ALEA. These new abilities include but are not limited to updating addresses, paying and reinstating licenses, uploading U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) medical cards, viewing Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) Hazmat background checks, and issuing duplicate licenses to eligible foreign nationals.
Also, “tremendous amounts” of data that has been compiled throughout the state since 1970 will transition to LEADS.
“LEADS will streamline and speed up the process, benefiting both customers and personnel,” said Col. Jimmy Helms, Director of ALEA’s Department of Public Safety. “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.”
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 only for revenue and probate services.
