Drivers must carry with them at all times a valid Driver’s License from their home country with a valid International Driver’s License/Permit, a valid Driver’s License from another US state, or a valid Alabama Driver’s License.

Driver’s Licenses from other states, other country driver’s licenses, and International Driver’s Licenses are valid for use within the State of Alabama – see point 6 on the list of “An Alabama License is not required for these people” found at the bottom of page 5 (page 7 of 88 in the pdf) of the Alabama Driver’s Manual.

While it is possible to drive on a valid foreign or out-of-state license, it is strongly advised that you obtain an Alabama State license if you plan to operate a vehicle in Alabama. This will help to avoid problems if you are stopped for a traffic violation or at any other time when you need to present a driver’s license. In addition, if you purchase a vehicle, you will need an Alabama license to be able to register your vehicle with the state and obtain a license plate. Also, if you do not have a US driver’s license, many car insurance companies will not insure your vehicle, or will insure you through a “high risk” pool at much higher rates.

Alabama Driving Regulations: All drivers, regardless of where they received their license, must obey the driving laws of the State of Alabama while driving in Alabama. The Alabama Driver’s Manual