I did not require an alignment after I did the front shocks or the rear shocks. The shocks do not articulate with the rest of the steering system, so replacing them does not affect the steering system; hence the lack of an alignment.

 

Awesome! That'll save me $90

 

Its only after ball joints,tie rods, idler or pitman arm replacement that you should get an alingment. Some people don't even do it for the idler or pitman. Also, if you get brand new tires its a good idea for them to check the alingment. Don't want to tear up new tires lol.