Alabama Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
On a multi-lane, divided highway, when a school bus stops, all lanes on both sides of the median must stop, even if it is a wide median.
Signs warning of a speed limit drop need not be posted in urban areas, and in practice generally are not.
Alabama requires that you have your headlights on whenever you are using your windshield wipers.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 30 mph |
| Rural (dirt) | 35 mph |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 65 mph |
| Interstates | 70 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | No |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid by mail or in person.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | *No |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $250 must be reported immediately to the local police, county sheriff, or State Highway Patrol.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Financial responsibility law.
Security-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $250.
Minimum limits: $20,000/40,000/10,000.
Alabama has uninsured motorists law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle in dry counties and permitted in the vehicle in wet counties.
- The BAC level is .08%. Under age 21 the BAC level is .02%.
- Alabama has an administrative license suspension law and an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 90-day driver's license suspension.
- Handguns must be unloaded and cased in the trunk or storage areas unless one has a recognized permit to carry; loaded rifles and shotguns may be carried in the passenger area in plain view or sexured in a gun case.
- Metal studs on tires are prohibited.
- Tire chains are not required.
- Alabama has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- Alabama has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 7 years of age. Children under age 4 must use approved car safety seats.
- Alabama has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card are not required to be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 334/242-4445
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: HP (47)