How to Register a Motorcycle in Alabama

In order to ride your motorcycle on public roadways in Alabama, you’ll need to make sure it is registered and that your registration is valid. 

When you buy a motorcycle, you’ll first need to transfer the title and get an insurance policy. Next, you’ll need to get it registered and get your Alabama motorcycle license plates and stickers. 

Note, you should also be sure to have a valid Alabama motorcycle license when you register your motorcycle too. 

This page will provide you with an overview of the steps to register a motorcycle in Alabama for the first time, and then we’ll go over your options for renewing your motorcycle registration before it expires. 

Remember, your registration documents and proof of insurance should be kept on your bike when you ride. 

Alabama Motorcycle Registration Steps

Registering a motorcycle in Alabama is basically the same process as registering any other vehicle.

If necessary, you’ll also need to complete any motorcycle inspections as required by the AL DMV.

How to register a motorcycle in Alabama:

1. Visit the license plate issuing office in your county. 
2. Present your proof of ownership documentation or the motorcycle title.
3. Present proof of motorcycle insurance. 
4. Be prepared to provide proof of your identification and address.
5. Pay the registration fees. 

After purchasing a motorcycle, you’ll have 20 days to get it registered. 

If you’ve just moved to Alabama, you’ll have up to 30 days to register your motorcycle. 

Renew Motorcycle Registration in Alabama

In order to avoid any traffic tickets or late fees, you’ll want to make sure that your Alabama motorcycle registration and license plate stickers are valid. 

In Alabama, motorcycle registrations are renewed on a staggered system based on the first letter of your last name. 

Your registration will expire on the last day of your expiration month. 

Your options for renewing your Alabama motorcycle registration include:

• In person at your local county office. 
• By mail, in certain counties.
• Online, in certain counties. 

For the list of counties that offer online motorcycle registration renewal, please visit: https://revenue.alabama.gov/motor-vehicle/vehicle-licensing-offices/ 

The information and items you’ll need in order to complete your motorcycle registration renewal include:

• Your renewal PIN from your renewal notice, if you received one from your county. 
• Your personal information and address.
• Your license plate number and VIN. 
• Payment for your motorcycle registration fees.

Depending on the type of bike you have, you may also need to complete the necessary motorcycle inspections when you renew your motorcycle registration.

Alabama Motorcycle Insurance

In addition to renewing your motorcycle registration, you’ll also want to make sure that your motorcycle insurance policy is up to date. 

Your annual registration renewal is a great time to compare motorcycle insurance quotes and check for cheaper rates. 

How much does it cost to register a motorcycle in Alabama?

The fees for Alabama motorcycle registration are as follows:

• Annual Motorcycle Registration fees: $15
• Personalized license plate fee: $3. 

Local county fees, issuance fees, and taxes may vary by county. 

For more information about Alabama motorcycle registration and registration renewals, check out the official DMV website at: https://revenue.alabama.gov/motor-vehicle/ 

Need more information? Check out our overview of the requirements for motorcycle titles and registrations in Alabama.