How to get a replacement Georgia driver's license
You can replace a Georgia driver's license in person at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, or online through the Georgia DDS website if you're renewing an expired license or replacing one that was lost or stolen. The online route is faster — you can order a replacement and have it mailed to you without visiting an office — but it works only if your license hasn't been suspended or revoked and you don't need to change information on it.
If your license was damaged but still readable, or if you straightforward want a new one, the in-person and online methods both work. If your license was stolen, you should also file a report with local police or the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, because a stolen ID can be used for fraud. Keep that report number; some DDS offices ask for it when you explore.
The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license valid for eight years. You'll pay the same amount whether you go online or in person. Processing time varies: online orders typically arrive within 7 to 10 business days, while in-person replacements are usually ready the same day or within a few days.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia lets you order a replacement license online if your license is valid (not suspended or revoked) and you don't need to change your name, address, or other information.
- The replacement fee is $32, and online orders arrive in 7 to 10 business days while in-person replacements are ready within days.
- You must visit a DDS office in person if your license is suspended, revoked, or if you need to update your address, name, or other details.
- If your license was stolen, file a police report first and bring that report number to the DDS office or mention it when ordering online.
Replacing your license online through Georgia DDS
The Georgia DDS website allows you to order a replacement license without leaving home. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Order a Replacement License," and log in with your Georgia Online Services account. If you don't have one, you'll create it during the process using your Social Security number, date of birth, and driver's license number.
Online replacement works only if your current license is valid and you don't need to change any information — your name, address, date of birth, or other details must match what's on file. You'll also need a valid payment method (debit or credit card) to pay the $32 fee. After you submit your order, the new license is mailed to the address on file, arriving in about 7 to 10 business days.
If you need to change your address or any other information, or if your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot use the online method. You must visit a DDS office in person.
Replacing your license in person at a DDS office
Visit any Georgia Department of Driver Services office with your Social Security number, proof of identity, and proof of Georgia residency. Acceptable identity documents include a valid passport, military ID, or state ID from another state. For proof of residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail with your current address.
You do not need to bring your old license — in fact, if it was stolen, you shouldn't have it. If you're replacing a damaged license, bring it with you so the DDS can see the damage. Tell the staff member if your license was stolen and provide your police report number if you have one.
DDS offices operate by appointment and walk-in, depending on the location. You can check wait times and book an appointment on the Georgia DDS website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours. Bring your payment method (cash, debit, or credit card) for the $32 fee. Your replacement license is usually ready the same day or within a few days.
What to do if your license was suspended or revoked
If your Georgia driver's license is suspended or revoked, you cannot order a replacement online. You must visit a DDS office in person. The staff will check your driving record and explain why your license is suspended or revoked.
A suspension is usually temporary — it might be due to unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or other violations. A revocation is more serious and typically lasts longer. In either case, you may need to resolve the underlying issue (pay fines, complete a required course, or satisfy other conditions) before you can get a replacement or reinstatement. The DDS office can tell you exactly what steps you need to take and what documents to bring back.
Changing your address or other information during replacement
If you're replacing your license and also need to update your address, name, or other details, you must do this in person at a DDS office. You cannot make these changes through the online replacement process.
Bring your current license (if you have it), proof of your new address, and any documents that support the change — for example, a marriage certificate if you changed your name, or a court order if you changed your name through legal proceedings. The DDS staff will update your information and issue a new license with the correct details. The fee remains $32.
Documents you need for in-person replacement
| Document Type | Examples | Required or Optional |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Valid passport, military ID, out-of-state driver's license, state ID | Required |
| Social Security Number | Your SSN (verbal or written) | Required |
| Proof of Georgia Residency | Utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, government mail with current address | Required |
| Current License | Your old Georgia driver's license | Optional (not needed if lost or stolen) |
| Police Report | Report number if license was stolen | Optional but helpful |
| Payment | Cash, debit card, or credit card | Required ($32 fee) |
Finding a Georgia DDS office near you
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. Use the office locator on dds.georgia.gov to find the nearest location, hours, and current wait times. You can also call the DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400 to ask about office locations or to check on your replacement order if you ordered online.
Some offices are busier than others, especially in urban areas. If you're going in person, arriving early in the day or on a weekday (rather than Friday) often means shorter waits. Many offices now allow you to book an appointment online, which reserves your spot and reduces wait time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a replacement license in Georgia?
Online orders arrive in 7 to 10 business days. In-person replacements are usually ready the same day or within a few days, depending on the office. If you need your license urgently, visiting an office in person is faster than ordering online.
Can I drive while I wait for my replacement license?
If you ordered online, you can print a temporary license from your Georgia Online Services account when ready after placing your order. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and can be used while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive. If you got a replacement in person, ask the DDS office for a temporary license if you need to drive before your permanent one is ready.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with wrong information?
Contact the Georgia DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400 or visit a DDS office with your damaged license. They can issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by DDS. If you damaged it yourself, you may be charged another $32 fee.
Do I need a new license if I just moved to a different Georgia address?
You should update your address with the DDS within 30 days of moving. You can do this online through your Georgia Online Services account if you're only changing your address and nothing else. If you want a physical license with your new address, you'll need to visit a DDS office or order a replacement online (if your license is valid and you have no other changes).
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
If you ordered online, your license is mailed to the address on file, so you don't need to pick it up. If you got a replacement in person and need someone else to pick it up, check with your specific DDS office about their policy — some allow it with written authorization, while others require you to pick it up yourself.