Georgia driver's license renewal happens online, by mail, or in person depending on your situation

Georgia offers three paths to renew your driver's license: online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or in person at a DDS office. Which route you can use depends on whether your license is expired, how long it has been expired, and whether you need a new photo. Most people who have not let their license lapse more than five years can renew online in about 10 minutes without visiting an office.

The online renewal process is the fastest and most convenient option when you are may be able to access. You will need your current Georgia driver's license number, a valid email address, and a payment method for the renewal fee. Georgia charges $32 for a standard four-year renewal or $64 for an eight-year renewal. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website works if your license expired within the last five years and you do not need a new photo.
  • The renewal fee is $32 for four years or $64 for eight years, paid by credit or debit card during the online process.
  • If your license expired more than five years ago or you need a new photo, you must renew in person at a DDS office.
  • Mail renewal is available only for people age 65 and older and requires mailing your current license and a completed form to the DDS.
  • Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days for online renewal, or two to three weeks for mail renewal.

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website

Start at the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and select the online renewal option. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will confirm whether you are may be able to access to renew online—if your license expired within the last five years and you do not need a new photo, you can proceed.

After verification, you will review your current information and make any necessary updates to your address or emergency contact. Then you will pay the renewal fee using a Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover card. Once payment is processed, you are finished. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. You do not need to visit an office or provide any documents in person.

In-person renewal at a DDS office

You must renew in person if your license expired more than five years ago, if you need a new photo, or if you want to change your name or address through a legal document. Bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form). If you are changing your name, bring the legal document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Visit any DDS office during business hours. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some have extended hours on certain days. You will take a new photo at the office, answer a few questions, and pay the renewal fee. Processing takes about 15 to 20 minutes. Your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can find your nearest office and check wait times on the Georgia DDS website.

Mail renewal for drivers age 65 and older

If you are 65 or older, you can renew by mail without visiting an office. read and complete the process for Renewal of Driver's License form (Form DL 44) from the Georgia DDS website. Include your current driver's license, a check or money order for the renewal fee made payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, and a new photo (passport-style, 2 by 2 inches).

Mail the completed form, your license, payment, and photo to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date the DDS receives your materials. Your new license will be mailed to you. This option is slower than online renewal but avoids a trip to an office if you prefer not to drive or have difficulty traveling.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than five years

If your Georgia driver's license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot use online or mail renewal. You must explore for a new license in person at a DDS office. This is treated as a new process rather than a renewal, which means you will need to provide more documentation: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of Georgia residency for at least 30 days.

You will also take a new written knowledge test and a driving skills test unless you meet an exemption. The process takes longer than a standard renewal and costs more—a new license is $32 for four years or $64 for eight years, the same as renewal, but the testing and additional documentation requirements mean you should plan for a longer office visit. Contact your local DDS office before you go to understand what documents they will accept as proof of residency and identity.

Finding a DDS office and checking wait times

The Georgia Department of Driver Services operates offices in most counties. Use the office locator on the Georgia DDS website to find the location nearest you, see current hours, and check estimated wait times. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times vary by time of day and day of week. Offices are typically less crowded early in the morning on weekdays and more crowded on Fridays and during lunch hours.

If you are renewing in person, you do not need an appointment at most Georgia DDS offices. However, some locations offer appointment scheduling through the website. Booking an appointment can reduce your wait time, especially during busy periods. Check whether your local office offers appointments before you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Georgia driver's license if I moved out of state?

No. You must have a valid Georgia address to renew a Georgia license. If you have moved out of state, you should explore for a driver's license in your new state instead. You can surrender your Georgia license by mail or in person at a DDS office.

What if I lost my driver's license and need to renew it?

You cannot renew a license you no longer have. Instead, you must explore for a replacement license in person at a DDS office. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. The replacement fee is $20, and you will receive your new license by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need a new photo when I renew online?

No. Online renewal uses your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DDS office. A new photo is required if your current license is more than eight years old or if you request one.

How long is a renewed Georgia driver's license valid?

A renewed license is valid for four years or eight years, depending on which option you choose during renewal. You select the length and pay the corresponding fee—$32 for four years or $64 for eight years. The expiration date is printed on your new license.

What if my renewal is rejected online?

If the online system says you are not may be able to access to renew online, it means your license has been expired for more than five years, you need a new photo, or there is a hold on your record. Visit a DDS office in person to complete your renewal. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number.