Updated October 1, 2026 · checked against official Government of Alberta sources
Step by step
- Check whether you need a medical. Drivers 75 and older, drivers with condition code C and commercial Class 1, 2 or 4 licences need a medical report first.
- Pick a registry. Any registry agent in Alberta can renew your licence. Find the closest one and check its hours; many open on Saturday.
- Bring your documents (list below) and pay the fee for the term you choose.
- Get your photo taken if your current photo is 4 or more years old.
- Leave with an interim licence valid for 60 days. The card is mailed, usually within 21 days.
What to bring
- Your current Alberta driver's licence.
- If the licence expired more than 6 months ago: proof of legal status in Canada and proof of Alberta residency (for example a utility bill, bank statement, lease or pay stub with your name and address, dated within the last 90 days).
- Your completed medical report, if you need one.
- Payment for the government fee and the registry's service charge.
Since July 2, 2026, new Alberta licences and ID cards are issued in an updated design that can show a citizenship indicator and the Personal Health Number. Registries may ask for documentation of your legal status in Canada, so bring it if you are unsure. See the official ID requirements.
How much it costs
You choose the term, from 1 to 5 years. The government fee is fixed; the service charge is the most a registry can add.
| Term | Government fee | Max. service charge | Most you pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year | $18.00 | $10.50 | $28.50 |
| 2 years | $36.00 | $11.55 | $47.55 |
| 3 years | $54.00 | $12.60 | $66.60 |
| 4 years | $72.00 | $13.65 | $85.65 |
| 5 years | $90.00 | $13.65 | $103.65 |
Other licence services
| Service | Government fee | Max. service charge |
|---|---|---|
| Duplicate or exchange licence (e.g. address change) | $20.00 | $13.65 |
| Reclassification (new class) | $20.00 | $13.65 |
| Condition code maintenance | $20.00 | $13.65 |
| Reinstatement, non-alcohol suspension | $50.00 | $9.45 |
| Reinstatement, alcohol suspension | $200.00 | $9.45 |
From the Registry Agent Product Catalogue (October 2026). Registries may offer a seniors' discount on eligible products; ask at the counter.
Lost, stolen or address change
A duplicate licence or an address change (called an exchange) is done at any registry for a $20.00 government fee plus up to $13.65 service charge. Bring identification and, for an address change, proof of your new Alberta address.
Frequently asked questions
Can I renew my Alberta driver's licence online?
When we last checked, the Government of Alberta listed online driver's licence renewal as temporarily unavailable, so renewal is done in person at a registry agent. Check the official renewal page before you go in case online renewal returns.
How early can I renew?
If you do not need a medical report, you can renew up to one year before your licence expires.
Do I need a new photo?
Yes, if your current photo is 4 or more years old. The registry takes it at the counter.
What if my licence expired a long time ago?
If it expired more than 6 months ago, you must show proof of legal status in Canada and Alberta residency. If it expired more than 3 years ago, you must pass the knowledge and road tests again before getting a new licence.
When does the new card arrive?
You leave the registry with an interim licence valid for 60 days. The card is mailed and normally arrives within 21 days. If it does not arrive, contact the registry, and do it within 60 days so you are not charged for a replacement.
Is a medical required to renew?
A medical report is needed if your licence has condition code C, if you are 75 or older, or if you hold a commercial Class 1, 2 or 4 licence. The exam is not covered by Alberta Health Care and the doctor sets the fee.
Related guides
All registry fees
Licences, ID cards, vehicles and records.
Alberta ID card
For residents who do not drive.
Registries open Saturday
Renew on the weekend.
Sources: Renew or replace a driver's licence (Alberta.ca) · ID requirements (Alberta.ca) · Registry Agent Product Catalogue (October 2026). Alberta Registry Offices is independent and not affiliated with the Government of Alberta. Rules and fees can change: confirm with your registry.