Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who will conduct my hearing?

   A representative of the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, routinely this will be an active Trooper or a retired state trooper.

2. How will I know when and where my Hearing will be conducted?

   Our Headquarters personnel assign a specific Trooper to conduct your hearing. Once the Trooper is assigned and receives your file he or she will contact you via mail or phone to establish a time and place.

3. Can my hearing be held in my County or another county in the State of Alabama?

   Normally Hearings are afforded, if approved, in the county of residence. However, a hearing can be held in an adjacent county if feasible and can expedite the process.

4. If I’m an out of state resident, can my hearing be held over the phone?

   That would depend on the type of hearing needed and at the discretion of the assigned Hearing Officer.

5. Who decides the outcome or results of my Hearing?

   The Hearing Unit has a Board that reviews the Hearing Officer recommendation, driving history, and the driver’s file to make a determination.

6. Do I have to have an attorney present for a Hearing?

   No.

7. Will I know the outcome / results of my Hearing at the conclusion of the Hearing?

   No. After you meet with the Hearing Officer, he will make a recommendation to the Board. He will then send your file with the recommendation to Headquarters for review by the board. Once your file has been processed you will receive a letter with the outcome of the hearing.

8. Where are the Hearings normally held?

   Most are conducted within a Driver License Office or other government building.

9. What is an Ignition Interlock Device?

   This law is to provide Ignition Interlock Devices on automobiles for persons convicted of driving under the influence. You MUST have a court order to operate a vehicle with the Ignition Interlock Device.
   Click here for more information about Ignition Interlock.