ALEA Celebrates One Year Anniversary, and Highlights the Achievement of LEADS

In April 2022, ALLEA’s (ALEA) Driver License Division introduced a brand new and updated driver license system. It replaced an old and complicated system that was in operation for more than two decades.

Since the implementation of Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License System (LEADS), the operations of both citizens and drivers license officers have been greatly improved throughout the state. More than 1.3 million driver licenses are processed every day since the new system was launched however the Agency has seen a reduction in time-to-services in local offices. Additionally, hard copies of driver’s licenses have been handed out to customers between two and three days quicker than the old system. In addition, a simplified process for filing accident claims has increased the processing time from one to three weeks down to two to three days for business.

“Employees from multiple divisions within ALEA collaborated with FAST Enterprises to develop and establish the new system. I am proud to acknowledge and celebrate the dedication and hard work of all employees who were integral to LEADS in highlighting the accomplishments of this massive and significant undertaking,” ALEA Secretary Hal Taylor stated. “Our Agency is proud to provide services to the people of Alabama and we’re committed to finding new and effective ways to offer Alabamans top customer service, whether that’s face-to-face in our local driver’s license offices, or through the enhancement of the online service.”

Drivers are able to renew their licenses online, change emergency contact information or make payments, and make payments, and upload U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Medical Cards as well as apply to get the Alabama License if they are first-time drivers. The newly updated website also has an online “ALEA” helper via chat boxes to aid in using the web-based services and to answer simple questions.

Since LEADS has been in operation, thousands of customers have benefited from the improved online services, which has increased efficiency and satisfaction of customers. Information gathered by the Agency shows that 78 percent of applicants now submit the hardship application online which has allowed processing times to be reduced from five days down to one to two days. More than 6000 commercial Driver License (CDL) Medical Self-certifications are processed every month on the internet which has led to an increase of 87 percent in the time to approve. More than 22,000 renewals of licenses and duplicates can be processed on the internet every month, while over 22,000 motor vehicle report reports can be processed on the internet every month.

The ALEA’s Department of Public Safety Director (DPS) Colonel Jon Archer previously served as the agency’s Driver License Division Chief and directed the division from beginning until the completion of the project until becoming Colonel at the beginning of March.

“A modernized driver’s license system designed to enhance the customer experience and internal operations was initially envisioned by Secretary Taylor some time ago, and then brought into existence under his direction,” said Colonel Archer. “Through analysis and observations throughout the course of the last year, it’s not difficult to see LEADS as a major achievement for both the Agency and for the entire State of Alabama. Our employees put in all day long to finish the project and performed excellent job in ensuring that everything was completed on time and that all equipment was functioning according to the deadlines. We appreciate their commitment and the ongoing support from governor Kay Ivey and the Legislature to provide the necessary resources to accomplish this incredible achievement. This one-year anniversary is not an end, but rather a beginning of our journey as we achieve excellence and surpass our customers’ expectations going forward.”