What a Georgia instructional permit is and who needs one

A Georgia instructional permit, also called a learner's permit, is a document that lets you practice driving before you take the road test for a regular driver's license. You must have one before you can take the road test in Georgia, and you must hold it for a minimum period before you become may be able to access to test. The permit shows that you have passed the written knowledge test about traffic laws and road signs.

Georgia issues instructional permits to people as young as 15 years old. If you are under 18, you will need to complete a driver education course before you can move to a regular license. If you are 18 or older, you can skip the driver education requirement and go straight to the road test once you have held your permit long enough.

Key Takeaways

  • You must pass the written knowledge test at a Georgia Department of Driver Services office to receive an instructional permit.
  • Applicants under 18 must complete an approved driver education course and hold the permit for at least 12 months before taking the road test.
  • Applicants 18 and older can take the road test after holding the permit for at least 30 days.
  • With an instructional permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver 21 or older is in the front seat next to you.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to explore.

Documents you need to bring to explore

When you go to a Georgia Department of Driver Services office to explore for an instructional permit, bring a document that proves your identity. This can be a birth certificate, passport, or state ID card. You also need proof that you live in Georgia — a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your name and current address will work.

You will need to provide your Social Security number or, if you do not have one, your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you to sign the process. Bring the completed DDS Form 40 (process for Instructional Permit or Driver's License), which you can fill out before you arrive or at the office.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, and how to handle emergencies on the road.

You can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the Department of Driver Services website. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare. You get one attempt per visit to the office, so if you do not pass, you can schedule another appointment and try again. There is no waiting period between failed attempts.

Restrictions on driving with an instructional permit

An instructional permit is not the same as a regular driver's license. You cannot drive alone. A licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat next to you at all times while you are driving. This person is responsible for supervising your driving and helping you learn.

You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. with an instructional permit. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. These rules exist to reduce crashes among new drivers. Breaking these rules can result in your permit being suspended or revoked.

How long you must hold the permit before taking the road test

If you are under 18, you must hold your instructional permit for at least 12 months before you can take the road test for a regular license. During this time, you must also complete an approved driver education course — either in-school or through a private provider. The course usually takes several weeks.

If you are 18 or older, you only need to hold the permit for 30 days before you can take the road test. There is no driver education requirement for adults. Once you have met the waiting period, you can schedule your road test at any Georgia Department of Driver Services office.

How to schedule your road test

Once you have held your instructional permit for the required time, go back to a Georgia Department of Driver Services office to schedule your road test. Bring your instructional permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency again. You will pay a test fee at the time you schedule.

The road test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A Department of Driver Services examiner will watch you perform basic driving tasks like starting the car, turning, parking, and stopping. The examiner will also test your ability to follow traffic laws and respond to road conditions. You must pass the road test to receive your regular driver's license.

What happens if your permit expires

An instructional permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. If you do not take and pass the road test before your permit expires, you will need to explore for a new one. You will have to take the written knowledge test again and pay the process fee again.

If you are under 18 and your permit expires before you complete the 12-month holding period, you can renew it without retaking the written test. Contact your local Department of Driver Services office to find out the renewal process and any fees involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to school with an instructional permit?

Yes, you can drive to school as long as a licensed driver 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive alone, even if it is just to get to school. The supervising driver must be present for the entire trip.

What if I fail the written knowledge test?

You can retake the test at your next visit to a Georgia Department of Driver Services office. There is no waiting period between attempts. Study the Georgia Driver's Manual and use practice tests to prepare before your next try.

Do I need to take driver education if I am 18 or older?

No. Driver education is only required for applicants under 18. If you are 18 or older, you can take the road test after holding your instructional permit for 30 days, without completing a driver education course.

Can someone other than a parent supervise my driving?

Yes. Any licensed driver who is at least 21 years old can supervise you while you drive with an instructional permit. The person does not have to be a parent or relative.

What should I bring to my road test appointment?

Bring your instructional permit, proof of identity, and proof of residency. Make sure your permit is still valid and you have met the minimum holding period. Arrive early and bring the vehicle you will be tested in — it must be in safe working condition.