How to check your Georgia driver's license status
You can check the status of your Georgia driver's license through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website without visiting an office. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "License Status Check" from the menu, and enter your driver's license number and date of birth. The system will show you whether your license is valid, suspended, revoked, or expired within seconds.
This online tool works for licenses you've applied for, renewed, or had issues with. It tells you the current status but not always the reason behind a suspension or revocation — you may need to call or visit an office to learn why your license was affected.
If you don't have internet access or prefer to speak with someone directly, you can call the DDS Customer Service line at 678-413-8400. Have your driver's license number ready. Wait times vary depending on call volume, and the line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern Time.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia DDS website at dds.georgia.gov has a free License Status Check tool that shows whether your license is valid, suspended, revoked, or expired.
- You need your driver's license number and date of birth to use the online status check, and results appear when ready.
- If your license is suspended or revoked, the online tool will not explain why — you must call 678-413-8400 or visit a DDS office to learn the reason.
- Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, unpaid child support, or medical disqualification.
What each license status means
Valid means your license is current and you can legally drive. The status check will show your expiration date so you know when to renew.
Expired means your license passed its expiration date and is no longer legal to use. You cannot drive on an expired license, even if it is only expired by one day. You must renew before you can legally operate a vehicle.
Suspended means your driving privilege has been temporarily taken away, usually for a specific reason like unpaid fines, failure to appear in court, or medical reasons. A suspension can be lifted once you resolve the underlying issue — for example, by paying what you owe or completing a required course.
Revoked means your license has been permanently cancelled by the state. Revocation is more serious than suspension and typically results from serious violations like multiple DUI convictions or habitual traffic offender status. You cannot straightforward wait out a revocation; you must go through a formal reinstatement process with the DDS, which may include fees, tests, or a waiting period.
Why your license might be suspended or revoked
Georgia suspends or revokes licenses for several reasons. Unpaid traffic fines and court costs are the most common cause — if you don't pay by the due date, DDS will suspend your license automatically. Failure to appear in court for a traffic ticket also triggers suspension. Child support arrears (unpaid child support) can result in suspension even if the debt is unrelated to driving.
Medical reasons also lead to suspension. If you have a seizure disorder, uncontrolled diabetes, or another condition that affects your ability to drive safely, DDS may suspend your license pending medical clearance from your doctor. You will receive notice in the mail if this happens.
Revocation is reserved for serious violations. Multiple DUI or DWI convictions within a certain period, driving with a suspended license, or being declared a habitual traffic offender can result in revocation. Some revocations are mandatory under state law and cannot be shortened.
How to resolve a suspension
The first step is to find out why your license was suspended by calling DDS at 678-413-8400 or visiting a local DDS office. The representative will tell you exactly what you need to do to lift the suspension.
If the suspension is due to unpaid fines or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed. You can pay online through the Georgia Superior Court website or in person at the court that issued the ticket. Once payment is processed, contact DDS to confirm the suspension has been lifted — this may take a few business days.
If you failed to appear in court, you must contact the court to reschedule your hearing or resolve the case. Once the court notifies DDS that the matter is resolved, your suspension will be lifted.
If the suspension is medical, your doctor must complete a form from DDS stating you are safe to drive. You submit this form to DDS, and they will review it. If approved, your license is reinstated.
How to renew an expired license
You can renew your Georgia driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. Online renewal is the fastest option and works if your license expired within the last two years and you have no suspensions or revocations.
To renew online, go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Renew Your License," and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The fee is $32 for an eight-year license. Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
If your license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew online and must visit a DDS office in person. Bring your current license (even though it is expired), proof of residency, and proof of Social Security number. You may also need to pass a vision test and written knowledge test depending on how long your license has been expired.
What to bring to a DDS office
If you need to visit a Georgia DDS office in person — whether to resolve a suspension, renew an expired license, or get answers about your status — bring the following documents:
- A valid form of identification (passport, military ID, or current out-of-state driver's license)
- Proof of Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return)
- Proof of Georgia residency dated within the last 60 days (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement)
- Your current Georgia driver's license if you have it
DDS offices are located throughout Georgia. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the DDS website. Many offices accept walk-ins, but some require appointments. Calling ahead or checking online before you go saves time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive if my license status says suspended?
No. Driving on a suspended license is illegal in Georgia and can result in additional fines, criminal charges, and a longer suspension. If you are stopped by police, you will face a separate charge for driving with a suspended license.
How long does it take to lift a suspension?
It depends on the reason. If you pay outstanding fines, the suspension is usually lifted within one to three business days once DDS receives confirmation from the court. Medical suspensions take longer — typically one to two weeks after DDS receives your doctor's clearance form.
What if I lost my driver's license number?
You can still check your status by calling DDS at 678-413-8400 with your name and date of birth. The representative will look up your information and tell you your current status. You can also visit a DDS office in person with a valid ID.
Does checking my license status online affect anything?
No. Checking your status online does not change anything about your license or create any record that affects you. It is purely informational.
What is the difference between suspension and revocation?
A suspension is temporary — once you resolve the underlying issue, your license is reinstated. A revocation is permanent cancellation, and you must go through a formal reinstatement process with DDS, which may include a waiting period, fees, or retesting.