Skip to main content

Alabama Immigration Laws

Alabama enacted HB 56 (the Beason-Hammon Act) in 2011, one of the strictest state immigration laws ever passed. While several provisions were enjoined by courts, key elements remain enforced including the E-Verify mandate for all employers and the prohibition on undocumented immigrants enrolling in public colleges. Alabama does not issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants and prohibits sanctuary policies.

Last verified: 2026-02-25

Key Alabama Statutes

Beason-Hammon Act (HB 56)Ala. Code § 31-13 (AL Act 2011-535)

One of the strictest state immigration laws in the nation. Key enforced provisions: E-Verify mandate for all employers, prohibition on undocumented immigrants obtaining business licenses, and ban on undocumented students enrolling in public colleges/universities. Several provisions were blocked by courts, including criminalization of failure to carry immigration documents and voiding contracts with undocumented persons. A 2025 settlement further limited enforcement.

E-Verify Mandate (All Employers)Ala. Code § 31-13 (HB 56)

Alabama requires ALL employers to use E-Verify for new hires — one of the broadest mandates in the nation. Penalties for non-compliance include business license revocation.

No Driver's LicensesAla. Code § 32-6-9

Alabama requires proof of lawful presence for driver's licenses. Undocumented immigrants cannot obtain any form of driving credential. No alternative driving privilege card is available.

Public College Enrollment BanAla. Code § 31-13 (HB 56)

Undocumented immigrants are prohibited from enrolling at Alabama public colleges and universities, making in-state tuition a moot point.

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.

Other Alabama Laws

Personal Injury Laws·Criminal Defense Laws·Family Laws·Employment Laws·Bankruptcy Laws·Medical Malpractice Laws·Workers' Compensation Laws·Social Security Disability Laws·Estate Planning Laws·Real Estate Laws·Landlord & Tenant Laws·Business Laws·Intellectual Property Laws·Tax Laws·Elder Laws·Civil Rights Laws·Domestic Violence Laws·Veterans Legal Services Laws·Healthcare & Benefits Laws

FlowLegal Partners Logo
FlowLegalPartnersAccess to Justice

Find licensed attorneys by state and practice area. Legal aid resources, pro bono directories, state law guides, and legal education — all in one place.

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING. FlowLegal Partners LLC is an attorney advertising, directory, and lead generation platform. We are not a law firm and do not operate as a lawyer referral service. We do not practice law, evaluate legal matters, provide legal advice, make legal judgments, or recommend or endorse any specific attorney. AI-generated work product requires attorney review and approval before use. Attorney supervision of all AI output is required and is the sole responsibility of the subscribing firm. Attorneys listed on our platform pay for advertising and/or lead generation services. The presence of an attorney on our platform does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

© 2025–2026 FlowLegal Partners LLC