History of DMV

The Alabama Driver's License Bureau is part of the state's Department of Public Safety, formed in December 1935 as part of a campaign promise. The Department was originally named the Alabama Highway Patrol, but the name was later changed to the Department of Public Safety.

There are currently six divisions of the Department of Public Safety:

• Administrative

• Alabama Bureau of Investigation

• Driver License

• Highway Patrol

• Protective Services

• Service

Driver's licenses were first ordered in 1935. No mandatory testing was needed, but each driver was required to purchase a license for 50 cents to help pay for the salaries and equipment used by the Highway Patrol.

Through the years, the Department has grown and been reorganized numerous times. During the first reorganization in the early 1940s, testing was instituted to determine the driver's knowledge of road laws and safety procedures, as well as his/her driving abilities.

The first picture driver's licenses were issued in 1977. They soon became vital for identification purposes. At this time, the first computer database began documenting criminal histories of the state's offenders.

The early 1980s heralded an abundance of changes within the state's driving laws. The most notable was the collection of a $5 driver testing fee to help the General Fund of the state.

History of the Highway Patrol

Most of the charter officers of the Highway Patrol rode motorcycles to perform their duties. But, as time passed, cars were utilized more frequently.

Drunk driving has been a concern of the Highway Patrol since its inception. With the wording of the law, officers could even ticket those driving wagons drawn by mules!

The two-way radio system currently in use began operation in 1944, allowing officers to respond immediately to accidents and incidents.

State Troopers became the official name for the Alabama Highway Patrol in 1963. Governor George Wallace wanted Alabama citizens to understand that when the State Troopers were utilized as law enforcement, they were under his authority to handle any situation.

Troopers began training for use of radar speed detection in 1979. They were required to pass written and skills tests before being issued radar equipment.

Department of Public Safety Mission

Its mission statement has guided the Department of Public Safety during its lifetime. "It shall be the mission of the Alabama Department of Public Safety to ensure equal protection under the law for all people, to faithful serve the public, and to perform with diligence and courtesy all duties integral to the fulfillment of this mission."