Probate Office

This guide is designed to help Autauga County residents and local businesses navigate the full scope of services provided by the Autauga County AL Probate Office. Inside, you’ll find plain-language explanations of tags and titles, vehicle registration, driver’s license renewals, marriage certificates, recordings, business licensing, hunting and fishing licenses, and key Probate Court matters such as wills, adoptions, guardianships, name changes, and more. You’ll also see practical checklists, timing rules, fees referenced from official sources, and office rules that affect the success of your visit. Contact details are listed at the end for quick reference.

Navigate the Autauga County Probate Office Efficiently

The Autauga County Probate Office serves as the county’s central hub for vehicle tags and titles, driver’s license renewals, vital recordings, marriage certificates, business licensing, elections administration, and Probate Court functions. Regular office hours run Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Note two daily cutoffs that matter for planning:

Titles cannot be processed after 4:00 p.m.
The Driver’s License department closes at 4:00 p.m.

A secure drop box is available in front of the building for tag renewals. Mailed renewals are accepted, and phone renewals are supported during business hours. If your workload is flexible, the best in-person window is typically between the 11th and 25th of the month; Mondays, Fridays, and the first working day after holidays are peak traffic times.

Start Strong: Use Tags, Titles & Licenses the Right Way

Residents most often begin with the Probate Office’s Tags, Titles & Licenses functions. Before you go, review the county’s Tags & Licenses services to confirm what you need and whether you can renew or register by mail or in person.

Understand Renewal Timing and Penalties

After your initial registration, your annual renewal month is based on the first letter of your last name:

January: A, D
February: B
March: C, E
April: F, G, N
May: H, O
June: M, I
July: P, L
August: J, K, R
September: Q, S, T
October: U, V, W, X, Y, Z
October/November: National Guard, commercial, and fleet vehicles

A courtesy reminder is mailed at the beginning of your assigned month, but it’s still your responsibility to renew on time. Missing your renewal month triggers a $15.00 late penalty plus interest for each vehicle.

Transfer or Register Newly Purchased Vehicles Without Delays

If you purchase a vehicle, Alabama law requires you to register within 20 calendar days of the sale. Missing the 20-day window results in a $15.00 penalty. If you move into Alabama with a valid out-of-state license, you must register within 30 days; late registration may also incur a $15.00 penalty.

To register a vehicle titled for the first time, bring:

Title evidence (one of the following): a properly executed original title; a title application; Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin; or an Alabama title already in your name.
If there’s a lien, bring a copy of the original title, full lienholder name and mailing address, loan account number, and loan date.
Effective October 1, 2015, the title must reflect your legal name exactly as it appears on your Driver’s License/ID (including financed vehicles).

Bill of Sale with: date of sale, full vehicle description (VIN, year, make, model), purchaser name/address, cost, trade-in allowance if applicable, and a breakdown of sales tax paid (state, county, city). If full sales tax wasn’t paid to the dealer, the county will collect the balance based on your residence.

Proof of Liability Insurance.

Driver license number or non-driver ID number (or FEIN for companies).

Older vehicles: If your vehicle is more than 35 years old, bring the Bill of Sale, proof of insurance, and driver license/ID number; a title may not be required.

Vehicle inspection: When the Probate Office applies for a first-time Alabama title, the vehicle must be present for inspection. Vehicles are not inspected after 4:00 p.m. or during inclement weather.

Handle a Deceased Owner Vehicle Transfer Correctly

If the estate is or will be probated, bring Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration issued by the Probate Court.

If the estate is not and will not be probated, bring a Next of Kin Affidavit (MVT 5-6) and a copy of the death certificate.

Secure Specialty Plates and Disability Access Credentials

Specialty tags are available for many causes, organizations, and collegiate affiliations; some military plates can include disability parking privileges. For design galleries and policy details maintained by the State, use Alabama’s Driver and Motor Vehicle portal for current plate series and requirements. First-time disability parking credentials generally require physician certification on the appropriate state form.

Use Vehicle Registration Guidance Before You Go

The county provides a step-by-step overview of documents, payment methods (cash, check, Visa/Mastercard/Discover with a modest service fee, and money order), and insurance requirements. Review the Vehicle Registration guidance to avoid repeat visits and to confirm cutoffs and documentation.

Know the Ad Valorem Tax Voucher Rules

If you sell, trade, or otherwise transfer a vehicle—or if it’s totaled or stolen and not recovered—you may qualify for an ad valorem tax credit voucher to apply toward another vehicle’s ad valorem tax.

Key points:

Voucher issued only to the registered owner (bring government ID).

Eligibility window: within 1 year of the transfer/loss date.

Redeemable only in the county where issued; transferable only to a spouse or dependent child.

Bring documents supporting the event (e.g., dealer bill of sale, affidavit for a casual sale, police theft report, or insurer total-loss letter).

Renew Your Driver License Through the Probate Office (Renewals Only)

The Probate Office handles driver’s license renewals and duplicate licenses during regular hours, with the department closing at 4:00 p.m. For speed and convenience, eligible residents can complete a secure renewal through the state’s official portal at ALEA’s online driver license renewal. Be cautious about look-alike websites; the State emphasizes using official URLs to avoid extra fees or incomplete transactions.

First-time Alabama driver licenses, initial STAR ID issuance, knowledge/road testing, and initial non-driver IDs are handled by the Driver License Examining Office operated by ALEA.

You can add certain vessel and veteran endorsements at the Probate Office.

A standard license/ID fee is $36.25, with a $5.00 administration fee per application; a temporary license/ID is issued on site and the original is mailed by the Alabama Department of Public Safety.

If you do not receive your license/ID within 60 days, contact the state agency directly.

For teens who completed a qualifying school-based driver education program and passed the road test with an instructor, ALEA may receive the student’s data automatically; the family can order a Stage II license online without a second road test at the ALEA office when eligibility conditions are met.

Record and Retrieve Life Events and Legal Instruments

File Deeds, Mortgages, and Other Instruments

The Probate Office records property instruments, certain court-related papers, and other documents that Alabama law assigns to county probate offices. Confirm recording standards, fees, and submission options on the county’s Recordings page, including eRecording availability and any formatting rules (e.g., paper size, margins, legibility, original signatures, and notarization where required).

Obtain and Record a Marriage Certificate in Alabama

Alabama uses a self-completed marriage certificate process, replacing marriage licenses. Couples complete the form, have signatures notarized, and submit it for recording within the statutory timeframe. The recording fee is $78.00. Begin with the county’s Marriage Certificate instructions for links to the state-issued forms and filing requirements. Print on 5″×11″ white or light paper, single-sided, at actual size (not “fit to page”).

Commission as a Notary Public

The Probate Office also manages Notary Public applications and commissioning. While requirements can vary by period (bonding, education, term, and fee), the county’s Notary service is part of its “Other Services” portfolio; check local instructions and bring proper identification for commissioning and recording of the bond and oath.

Launch and Renew: Business Licenses Through the Probate Office

Most businesses operating in Autauga County need a local license. The Probate Office provides the process for initial applications, renewals, and changes (such as ownership, location, or business name). Use the county’s Business Licenses information to confirm the classification of your business activity, required documentation, and renewal windows. When you plan a transfer or acquisition, coordinate early with the Office to keep your license current and avoid penalties.

Hunt, Fish, and Boat: Licensing Made Straightforward

The Probate Office issues hunting and fishing licenses for eligible residents and non-residents. Alabama residents ages 16 through 64 generally require a license to hunt; residents 16 years and older require a license to fish (non-residents 16+ also require licenses). A current Alabama driver license verifies residency for hunting licenses; alternative documents can establish residency for fishing licenses when needed. Bring acceptable identification, and be aware that hunter education is required for those born on or after August 1, 1977, to purchase a hunting license.

Make Probate Court Processes Predictable

The Autauga County Probate Court serves families across a wide spectrum of life events. The Court’s emphasis is a fair, timely, and efficient forum within its jurisdiction. Begin at the hub page for an overview of what’s within this court’s scope and where to file:

Explore the Court’s role and relevant filings on the Probate Court overview.

Wills, Estates, and Related Instruments

Many residents first encounter Probate Court through wills and estate administration. The Wills & Instruments page explains how a valid will directs asset distribution and what to expect when filing. When a will exists, the named personal representative typically seeks Letters Testamentary; if no will exists, an administrator may be appointed through Letters of Administration. Timelines, notice requirements, inventory duties, and claims procedures are governed by Alabama statutes and local practice. Bring originals and certified copies where required; legibility and proper notarization (if applicable) reduce delays.

Adoptions: New Families, New Legal Relationships

Adoption legally establishes the parent-child relationship, including inheritance rights and a new legal name if designated by the petitioner. As of January 1, 2024, changes to the Alabama Adoption Code affect filings for minor and adult adoptions. Because procedural updates are in progress, the Court requests that you contact the Probate Office before filing so staff can guide you to the current checklist and local practices. Filing fees apply, and an additional $25.00 is paid to the Alabama Department of Vital Statistics when the Decree of Adoption is entered.

Guardianships and Conservatorships: Protecting People and Property

When an incapacitated adult needs help with personal decisions (guardianship) or property and financial affairs (conservatorship), the Court evaluates medical evidence, appoints a guardian ad litem when appropriate, and may require bonds and property inventories. A conservator can manage routine transactions (retaining assets, paying taxes, hiring professionals, settling claims, etc.) without prior court approval, and must seek court authorization for significant actions (such as selling real estate, participating in a business, or long-term leases). Nominations by the individual, spouse, adult children, or caregivers are considered, with the Court prioritizing the ward’s best interest.

Involuntary Commitment: A Focus on Treatment and Due Process

The Probate Court handles involuntary commitment proceedings, a civil process to place an individual in the custody of the Alabama Department of Mental Health for treatment when statutory criteria are met. The law requires petitions, evaluations, representation, and hearings that balance the person’s liberty interests with community and individual safety.

Name Changes and Declaration of Legitimation

Adult name changes and declarations of legitimation are also within the Probate Court’s jurisdiction. The Court provides forms and procedural guidance outlining the affidavits, notices (if any), and identity documents to support these filings. Bring government identification and any supporting records required for the specific petition.

Keep Elections Information Straight from the Source

The Judge of Probate is Autauga County’s Chief Election Officer. For election calendars, polling procedures, candidate qualifications, maps, and historical results, consult Elections information. The site also links to voter-focused guidance and election forms maintained by state authorities. Because elections timelines and procedures are statutory, always rely on the official county and state pages before acting.

Practical Tips That Save a Trip

Bring original documents (or certified copies) whenever possible; legibility, exact legal names (matching your driver license/ID), and complete form fields prevent rework.

Mind the 4:00 p.m. cutoff for title transactions and the 4:00 p.m. closing of the Driver’s License department.

Insurance proof is mandatory to register or renew a vehicle. Keep your policy details handy (NAIC number, policy number, effective dates).

For first-time Alabama titles, bring the vehicle for inspection; poor weather or late arrival can push the inspection to another day.

If you’re handling matters for someone else (e.g., registering a car with a lien, estate matters, or acting under a power of attorney), bring the underlying legal authority (POA, Letters Testamentary, Letters of Administration, Next of Kin Affidavit with death certificate, etc.).

For teen licensing, check whether school-transmitted results apply so you can complete ordering online when eligible.

For marriage certificates, print the state form at actual size on 5″×11″ paper, one-sided, and follow the notarization instructions exactly before submitting for recording.

Departments and Offices — Addresses and Phone Numbers

Autauga County Probate Office — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Tags, Titles & Licenses — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Vehicle Registration — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Driver License & Identification Cards (Renewals) — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Recordings — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Marriage Certificate — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Notary Public — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Business Licenses — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Probate Court — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

Elections — 176 W 5th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 361-3728

ALEA Driver License Examining Office — 218 N Court Street, Prattville, AL 36067 — (334) 358-6735

Autauga County Probate Office FAQs

When are services available and are there daily cutoffs?

Regular weekday hours are 8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. and 12:30 p.m.–4:30 p.m. Title work stops at 4:00 p.m., and the Driver’s License department closes at 4:00 p.m. A secure drop box is available for tag renewals, and renewals may also be handled by mail or by phone during office hours. For dates the office is closed, check the official hours and service notes.
Home – Autauga County Probate

Can I renew my driver license here or online, and what about STAR ID?

The Probate Office handles renewals and duplicates; first-time licenses and initial STAR ID issuance are completed at the ALEA Driver License Examining Office. Eligible residents can complete a renewal through the online renewal portal; use only the state site to avoid extra fees or incomplete transactions.
Drivers License Online Renewal

What do I need to register a recently purchased vehicle, and how long do I have?

Register within 20 calendar days of purchase (30 days after moving into Alabama with a valid out-of-state license). Bring acceptable title evidence, a detailed bill of sale, proof of liability insurance, and a driver license/ID number (or FEIN for companies). Vehicles 35+ years old may not require a title. For first-time Alabama titles, the vehicle must be present for inspection; no inspections after 4:00 p.m. or during inclement weather.
Vehicle Registration

How can I renew my tag if I can’t visit in person?

Renewal months are based on the first letter of the registrant’s last name. A courtesy reminder is mailed at the start of the renewal month, but timely renewal remains the owner’s responsibility. In addition to in-person service, the office accepts drop-box submissions, mail-in renewals, and phone renewals during business hours; online options are linked from the county’s tags page.
Tags & Licenses

What is required to record a marriage certificate in Autauga County?

Alabama uses a self-completed, notarized marriage certificate that must be submitted for recording. The recording fee is $78. Print the state-issued form on 8.5″×11″ white or light paper, single-sided, at actual size (not “fit to page”), and follow the filing instructions provided by the county.
Marriage Certificate