U.S. STATE · STATE ID CARD
Alabama State Identification Card Photo Requirements
Find out whether you need to make a photo for a state ID card, where the photo is taken, and what is known about renewing or replacing the card remotely.
Sources reviewed: October 18, 2026
Should you make a photo?
Do not prepare your own photo unless the agency or your transaction instructions specifically ask for one.
This page covers a state identification card. It does not automatically apply to driver licenses, learner permits, or every exception.
Issuing agency: Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
Where the photo is taken
STAR ID versions of the non-driver ID are issued only at ALEA Driver License examining offices, and a first STAR ID requires an office visit. The ALEA pages reviewed do not say where a standard non-driver ID is first issued or spell out the photo step, and they do not ask the applicant to supply a photo.
Online or mail renewal and replacement
Residents who cannot visit an office (and some out-of-state applicants) may renew or replace a non-driver ID by mail with Form DL-100 if they got an Alabama card with their picture and signature in the last four years. A STAR ID cannot be added by mail. The form does not ask for a photo. A March 2020 ALEA news release says non-driver IDs can be renewed or duplicated online, but current online eligibility rules were not confirmed.
Photo law and rules
A photo-specific statute or rule for this credential has not yet been summarized on this page.