Alabama Driver Manual Review

License Requirements

  • Every Alabama resident operating a motor vehicle must possess a driver license.

  • Exceptions:

    • Federal government employees operating government vehicles.

    • Drivers of farm tractors temporarily on highways.

    • Residents aged 16 or older with a valid out-of-state license.

    • Non-resident students with a valid home-state license.

Who Cannot Be Licensed

  • Individuals under 16 years of age.

  • People whose driving rights are suspended or revoked.

  • Those with physical or mental impairments that impede safe vehicle control.

  • Habitual drunkards or drug addicts.

Identification Requirements

  • Present two forms of ID, one with a photo.

  • Requires proof of authorized presence in the U.S.

  • Non-drivers who have been deported must show restoration of legal status.

Organ Donation

  • Individuals receiving a driver’s license may register as organ donors by indicating "Yes".

  • Each registration can save lives; someone is added to the transplant list every 10 minutes.

  • Myths surrounding organ donation:

    • Medical care is not jeopardized.

    • Disfiguring is a myth; open casket funerals are possible.

    • Costs are not borne by the donor's family.

Safety and Traffic Laws

  • Alabama mandates seatbelt usage for all vehicle occupants.

  • Traffic laws apply universally across all road users.

  • Good driving habits reduce accidents:

    • Buckle up.

    • Don’t use electronics while driving.

    • Keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

Alabama Point System

  • Points assessed for various traffic violations including:

    • 6 pts for DUI.

    • 5 pts for passing a stopped school bus.

  • Accumulation leads to license suspension based on the number of points within a 2-year period.

Myths of Driving Issues

  1. Using a phone while driving  a distraction.

  2. Impaired vision due to anger or emotional distress can affect driving safely.

  3. Alcohol under 0.08 BAC is still legally intoxicated.

Vehicle Maintenance

  • Proper maintenance is essential for safety:

    • Check brakes, lights, tires regularly.

    • Maintain brake systems to prevent brake failure.

Driving Conditions

  • Adjust driving techniques based on conditions:

    • Use lower speed limits during poor weather.

    • Maintain safe distances and regulate speed promptly when faced with challenges (e.g., curves, heavy rain).

Important Emergency Measures

  • Know how to react to vehicle emergencies: blowouts, brake failure, etc.

  • Properly document incidents during traffic stops or accidents, e.g. provide ID and insurance information, stay calm, follow officer instructions appropriately.