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 — there's no online option for the actual license issuance, though you can renew some licenses by mail if yours hasn't been expired for more than two years.
Before you go to the office, gather these documents: proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current Georgia address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you and bring their own ID.
You'll also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test unless you're renewing a valid license. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which DDS provides free online and at every office.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia requires you to visit a DDS office in person to get your first license, though some renewals can be done by mail if your license expired less than two years ago.
- Bring proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Georgia address — all documents must be originals or certified copies.
- First-time applicants must pass a vision test and written knowledge test; you can study using the free Georgia Driver's Manual online.
- A Georgia driver's license is valid for eight years for adults and four years for drivers under 21, and renewal fees vary based on license type and validity period.
- DDS offices operate by appointment in most locations, so book ahead on the DDS website to avoid long waits.
Finding a DDS office and booking an appointment
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties, but hours and services vary by location. The fastest way to find your nearest office and check hours is the DDS office locator on the Georgia Department of Driver Services website. You can search by county or city.
Most DDS offices now require appointments. You can book online through the DDS website, and many offices let you choose your preferred date and time. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but you may wait several hours. Booking ahead takes 10 minutes and saves you a trip if the office is full.
Some services — like renewing a license by mail — don't require an office visit at all. If your Georgia license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical suspensions or restrictions, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from any DDS office or read it from the website, fill it out, and mail it with your fee and documents.
Costs and how long a Georgia license lasts
A Georgia driver's license costs between $32 and $35 for an eight-year license if you're 21 or older. If you're under 21, the license is valid for four years and costs less. Renewal fees are the same as initial issuance fees. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DDS office.
Your license is valid for eight years from the date it's issued if you're an adult. Georgia sends renewal notices by mail about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice — you can renew anytime in the 30 days before your license expires. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore in person as if it were your first license.
If you change your name, address, or need to correct information on your license, you can update your address online through the DDS website without visiting an office. Name changes and other corrections require an office visit and supporting documents.
What to expect during your DDS office visit
When you arrive for your appointment, bring all your documents in originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. A DDS staff member will verify your identity and Social Security number, check your address, and take your photo and signature for the license.
If you're getting your first license or your license has been expired for more than two years, you'll take the written test at the office. The test has 40 questions, and you need to answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You can take it again the same day if you fail. After the written test, you'll take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them.
You won't take a road test at the DDS office — Georgia doesn't require a separate driving test for a regular driver's license. Once you pass the written and vision tests, your license is issued on the spot or mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office.
Renewing your license before it expires
You can renew your Georgia license up to 30 days before it expires. If you renew early, your new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, not from your old expiration date. This means renewing early doesn't extend your license — it just gives you a fresh eight-year period.
If you're renewing in person at a DDS office, the process is faster than getting your first license. You won't take the written test or vision test unless DDS staff notice a problem with your vision during the photo process. Bring your expired license, proof of address, and your fee. The new license is issued when ready or mailed within 7 to 10 business days.
If you're renewing by mail and your license expired less than two years ago, you don't need to visit an office. Fill out the renewal form, include a copy of your expired license, your fee, and proof of address, then mail it to the address on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks.
Special situations: Suspensions, restrictions, and medical conditions
If your Georgia license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it. You must contact DDS to find out why it was suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or DUI convictions. Restoration requirements vary by reason, so call DDS or visit an office to learn what applies to your case.
If you have medical conditions that affect your driving — such as vision problems, seizure disorders, or hearing loss — DDS may require a medical evaluation form from your doctor before issuing or renewing your license. If DDS asks for this, they'll send you a form to give to your physician. Your doctor fills it out and returns it to DDS; you don't submit it yourself.
If you're over 80 years old, Georgia requires you to renew your license in person every four years instead of every eight years. You'll also need to pass the vision test and written test each time you renew.
Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at any DDS office. Bring your ID, proof of address, and your fee — the same documents you'd bring for a renewal. You don't need to take the written or vision test for a replacement.
If your license was stolen, you can report it to DDS at the time you explore for the replacement. DDS will flag the old license number so it can't be used fraudulently. Processing time is the same as a renewal: when ready issuance or 7 to 10 business days by mail.
You can also order a replacement license by mail if you prefer not to visit an office. read the replacement form from the DDS website, include a copy of your ID, proof of address, and your fee, then mail it to the address on the form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Georgia license online?
You cannot get a new license online, but you can renew by mail if your license expired less than two years ago. read the renewal form from the DDS website, mail it with your fee and documents, and your new license will arrive in 2 to 3 weeks. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must visit a DDS office in person.
What if I fail the written test?
You can take the test again the same day at no extra cost. Most people pass on the second attempt. If you fail multiple times, ask the DDS staff for study materials or take more time to review the Georgia Driver's Manual before trying again.
How do I change my address on my Georgia license?
You can update your address online through the DDS website without visiting an office. Go to the address change section, enter your license number and personal information, and submit your new address. The change takes effect when ready, though your physical license won't reflect it until you renew.
What if I lost my Social Security card and can't prove my number?
You can use other documents that show your Social Security number, such as a W-2, tax return, or bank statement. If you don't have any of these, contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card or a letter confirming your number, then bring that to DDS.
Do I need an appointment at every DDS office?
Most DDS offices require appointments, but a few still accept walk-ins. Check the office locator on the DDS website for your specific location. Booking an appointment online takes a few minutes and guarantees your spot, so it's worth doing even if walk-ins are allowed.