What you need to get a Georgia driver's license
Georgia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Driver Services (DDS). To get your first license or renew an expired one, you'll need to visit a DDS office in person, bring specific documents, pass a vision test, and pay a fee. The process takes about 30 minutes if you're prepared with the right paperwork.
You must be at least 16 years old to hold a learner's permit and at least 17 to hold a full driver's license. If you're under 18, you'll also need to complete a driver's education course or hold a learner's permit for a certain period before you can test for a full license.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring proof of identity, Social Security number, proof of Georgia residency, and proof of legal presence to any DDS office.
- Georgia driver's licenses cost $32 for an eight-year license and $20 for a five-year license, with additional fees for replacements or name changes.
- You can renew your license online if you're between 21 and 70 years old, have no medical restrictions, and your license hasn't been suspended or revoked.
- DDS offices operate by appointment only, and you can schedule one through the Georgia DDS website or by calling your local office.
- Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete your visit.
Documents you must bring to a DDS office
Georgia requires four categories of documents. First, proof of identity: a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. Second, proof of your Social Security number: your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. Third, proof of Georgia residency: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and current address. Fourth, proof of legal presence: a U.S. passport, birth certificate, visa, or permanent resident card.
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're explore for a Real ID-compliant license (which you'll need for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 2025), bring the same documents but understand that the process takes slightly longer because DDS verifies your information with federal databases.
Renewing your license online versus in person
Georgia allows online renewal for drivers aged 21 to 70 whose licenses are not suspended, revoked, or subject to medical restrictions. You can renew online through the Georgia DDS website up to one year before your license expires. The fee is $32 for an eight-year renewal or $20 for a five-year renewal, paid by credit or debit card. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
If you don't meet the age or status requirements, or if your license has been expired for more than two years, you must visit a DDS office in person. The same applies if you need to change your address, add or remove restrictions, or update your photo. In-person visits also require an appointment, which you can schedule online or by phone.
How to schedule a DDS appointment
All Georgia DDS offices operate by appointment only. You can schedule online at the Georgia DDS website by selecting your county and preferred office, then choosing an available date and time. Appointments typically fill up 4 to 6 weeks in advance, especially in urban areas, so plan ahead if you have a important date.
If you prefer to call, find your local DDS office number on the Georgia DDS website and call during business hours. Some offices have limited phone availability, so online scheduling is usually faster. Bring your appointment confirmation—either printed or on your phone—when you arrive. If you miss your appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer for the next available slot.
What happens during your DDS visit
When you arrive, a DDS employee will review your documents, verify they match the requirements, and ask you questions about your address and driving history. You'll take a vision test using a machine that checks your eyesight; if you wear glasses or contacts, wear them during the test. You'll also answer questions about medical conditions or medications that might affect your ability to drive safely.
Next, you'll have your photo taken for your license. Then you'll pay the fee—$32 for an eight-year license or $20 for a five-year license—by cash, check, or card. If you're under 18, you may also need to show proof of driver's education completion or your learner's permit. Once everything is complete, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to you.
Fees and what they cover
A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 for eight years or $20 for five years. If you're replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the replacement fee is $20. A name change costs $20. If you need to add or remove restrictions—such as corrective lenses or medical conditions—that's $5. Real ID-compliant licenses cost the same as standard licenses but take longer to process because DDS verifies your information with federal agencies.
Georgia does not charge a fee for your first learner's permit if you're under 18, but you do pay the standard license fee when you upgrade to a full license. Senior drivers aged 65 and older can renew for $20 regardless of the license term length.
What to do if your license is suspended or revoked
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it online or at a standard DDS visit. Suspensions usually result from unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. Revocations are more serious and typically result from DUI convictions or serious traffic offenses.
To restore your driving privileges, you must first resolve the underlying issue—pay outstanding fines, complete a court-ordered program, or serve a suspension period. Then contact the DDS to confirm your suspension or revocation has been lifted. You may need to visit a DDS office in person and pay a reinstatement fee, which varies depending on the reason for the suspension. Check the Georgia DDS website or call your local office for specific instructions about your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Georgia license if I live out of state?
No. Georgia requires you to be a resident to hold a Georgia license. If you've moved out of state, you should obtain a license from your new state. If you're temporarily out of state but still a Georgia resident, you can renew online if you meet the age and status requirements, or wait until you return to visit a DDS office.
What if I lost my Social Security card?
You can bring other documents that show your Social Security number instead, such as a W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return. You don't need the card itself—DDS just needs to verify the number. If you don't have any of these documents, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before your DDS visit.
How long does a Georgia driver's license last?
Standard Georgia driver's licenses are valid for eight years if you choose the longer term, or five years if you choose the shorter term. You pay less for the five-year option. Licenses for drivers aged 65 and older are valid for five years. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license.
Can I get a Real ID license at any DDS office?
Yes, all Georgia DDS offices issue Real ID-compliant licenses. You don't need to request it separately—just bring the required documents and let the employee know you want a Real ID license. It costs the same as a standard license but takes longer to process because DDS verifies your information with federal databases.
What if my appointment gets canceled?
DDS occasionally cancels appointments due to office closures or staffing issues. If your appointment is canceled, you'll receive a notification by email or phone. You can when ready reschedule online or by phone for another available time. If you have an urgent important date, call your local DDS office to ask about walk-in availability or expedited appointments.