How to check your Georgia license status

You can check your Georgia driver's license status through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website without visiting an office. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "License Status Inquiry" from the main 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 24 hours a day and tells you the current standing of your license. If your license is suspended or revoked, the system will not tell you why — you'll need to contact DDS directly for that information. If you don't have internet access, you can call the DDS Customer Service line at 678-413-8400 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time) and provide your license number to a representative.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia DDS website's License Status Inquiry tool shows whether your license is valid, suspended, revoked, or expired in real time.
  • You need your driver's license number and date of birth to use the online tool, which is available any time of day.
  • If your license is suspended or revoked, the online tool will not explain why — you must call DDS customer service or visit an office to learn the reason.
  • DDS customer service can answer questions by phone at 678-413-8400 during weekday business hours if you cannot use the website.

Why your license might be suspended or revoked

A Georgia license can be suspended for several reasons: unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, accumulating too many points from traffic violations, driving under the influence (DUI) convictions, or failure to maintain car insurance. Revocation is more serious and typically follows a DUI conviction, multiple suspensions, or serious traffic violations. The length of suspension or revocation depends on the reason and whether it is your first offense.

If you have unpaid child support obligations or owe money to the state, your license can also be suspended. Medical conditions that affect your ability to drive safely may result in a suspension until you provide documentation from a doctor. Understanding why your license was suspended matters because the steps to restore it differ depending on the cause.

What to do if your license is suspended

Once you know why your license is suspended, you can take steps to restore it. If the suspension is due to unpaid fines or court fees, you must pay those amounts in full. If it is due to a DUI conviction, you may need to complete a DUI education program and provide proof to DDS. If points from traffic violations caused the suspension, you may be able to reduce points by completing a defensive driving course approved by Georgia.

After you have met all requirements for your suspension, you can request reinstatement through the DDS website or by visiting a DDS office in person. Reinstatement usually requires a fee, which varies depending on the reason for suspension. Check the DDS website for the current reinstatement fee and any documents you need to bring.

Visiting a DDS office in person

If you prefer to check your license status face-to-face or need to resolve a suspension, you can visit any DDS office across Georgia. DDS has offices in most counties, and you can find the location nearest you on the dds.georgia.gov website by entering your city or zip code. Bring your current ID and any documents related to your suspension (court notices, proof of payment, completion certificates for required programs).

Wait times at DDS offices vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than visiting on Friday afternoons. You do not need an appointment for a license status check, but some services require one — check the website before you go to confirm what you need.

Understanding license expiration dates

A Georgia driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Your expiration date appears on the front of your license. If your status check shows your license is expired, you can renew it online through the DDS website if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be suspended or revoked, you must be a U.S. citizen, and you must not have any medical conditions that would require a new photo or in-person visit.

If you cannot renew online, you will need to visit a DDS office. Bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. The renewal fee is $32 for an eight-year license.

What happens if you drive with a suspended license

Driving with a suspended or revoked license is a criminal offense in Georgia. A first offense can result in a fine of $500 to $1,000, up to 12 months in jail, or both. A second offense within five years carries a minimum fine of $1,000 and up to 12 months in jail. A third or subsequent offense within five years is a felony, which carries much harsher penalties.

Beyond legal consequences, driving on a suspended license puts you and others at risk. Your insurance will not cover accidents or damage if you are driving illegally, which means you could be personally liable for all costs. If you are stopped by police, your vehicle can be impounded, and you will face additional towing and storage fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to restore a suspended license?

The time depends on the reason for suspension and how quickly you meet the requirements. If you pay fines when ready, reinstatement can happen within days. If you need to complete a program or wait out a suspension period, it may take weeks or months. Contact DDS to confirm what you need to do and how long it typically takes.

Can I drive if my license is suspended but I have not received notice?

No. Your license status is effective when ready when DDS suspends it, even if you have not received a letter yet. The online status check is the official record. If you see your license is suspended, you should not drive until it is restored.

What if the status check shows incorrect information?

Contact DDS customer service at 678-413-8400 with your license number and details about the error. You may need to visit an office in person with documentation to correct the record. Keep records of any correspondence with DDS in case you need to dispute the information later.

Can I check someone else's license status?

No. The online tool requires the driver's license number and date of birth, and it is designed for individuals to check their own status. DDS does not release license information about other people without a court order or legal authority.

Is there a fee to check my license status?

No. Checking your status online or by phone through DDS is free. You only pay fees if you need to renew your license or pay reinstatement costs after a suspension.