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 with specific documents. Georgia requires proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and a completed process form.
For proof of identity, bring a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. For proof of residency, a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. You'll also need your Social Security card or a document showing your number, like a W-2 or tax return. If you're a new resident, bring documents showing your move to Georgia.
You must pass a vision test and written knowledge test at the DDS office. If you're under 18, you'll also need a parent or guardian's signature on your process. Bring your current license if you're renewing, or bring a learner's permit if you're upgrading from one.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia driver's licenses are issued only at Department of Driver Services offices, and you must appear in person with original documents.
- You need proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number, plus a completed DDS Form #40 process.
- Standard licenses are valid for eight years for adults and five years for drivers under 21.
- You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended, you have no medical conditions, and you meet other specific requirements.
- Georgia charges different fees depending on whether you're getting a new license, renewing, or replacing a lost one.
DDS office locations and how to schedule an appointment
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find your nearest office and check hours on the official DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. Many offices now require appointments, though some still accept walk-ins during certain hours. Scheduling ahead reduces wait times significantly.
To schedule an appointment, visit the DDS website and select your county and preferred office. You'll choose a date and time slot. If you cannot find an appointment in your area, check neighboring counties—you can visit any DDS office in the state. Some offices fill up weeks in advance, especially near the end of the month or before holidays.
Bring your appointment confirmation number or receipt when you go. If you miss your appointment, you may need to reschedule, and some offices charge a fee for no-shows.
License types and what each one allows
Georgia issues several types of driver's licenses. A Class D license is the standard license for operating regular passenger vehicles. A Class CP license is for commercial purposes and requires additional testing and medical certification. A Class M license is for motorcycles and requires a separate endorsement and test.
If you're under 18, you'll receive a Learner's Permit first, which allows you to drive only with a licensed adult in the vehicle. After holding the permit for at least 12 months and one day, you can take the road test for a Class D license. Drivers aged 16 to 17 receive a Restricted License after passing the road test, which has limitations on nighttime driving and passengers.
Georgia also offers REAL ID-compliant licenses, which meet federal requirements for air travel and federal building access. These licenses have a gold star in the top right corner. You can get a REAL ID license by providing the same documents as a standard license, plus proof of Social Security number.
Renewal by mail and online options
You may renew your Georgia license by mail if you meet certain conditions. Your license must not be suspended or revoked, you cannot have any medical conditions that affect your driving, and your license must not be expired by more than two years. You also cannot be required to take a new photo or vision test.
To renew by mail, complete DDS Form #40 and mail it with your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a copy of proof of residency. Mail everything to the address listed on the DDS website. Processing takes about two to three weeks after DDS receives your process.
Georgia does not currently offer online renewal. You must renew in person at a DDS office or by mail. If you need to renew in person, you can schedule an appointment through the DDS website.
Fees and what they cover
Georgia charges different fees depending on what you're doing. A new Class D license costs $32 and is valid for eight years. Renewal of an expired license also costs $32. If you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license, the fee is $20. A Learner's Permit costs $16.
These fees cover the license itself, the vision test, and the written knowledge test if required. If you need a REAL ID-compliant license, there is no additional charge beyond the standard license fee. Payment methods accepted at DDS offices include cash, check, debit card, and credit card. By mail, you must send a check or money order.
If you're renewing by mail and your process is denied, DDS will return your payment. If you need to take the road test, there is no separate fee—it's included in the license cost.
What to expect during your DDS office visit
When you arrive at the DDS office, check in at the front desk with your appointment confirmation or take a number if walk-ins are accepted. A staff member will review your documents to make sure everything is complete. If anything is missing, they'll tell you what you need to bring back.
Next, you'll go to the vision station, where an employee will test your eyesight. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. You'll then move to the written test area and take the knowledge test on a computer. The test covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 70 percent to pass.
If you're getting your first license or upgrading from a permit, you'll also take a road test. A DDS examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you arrange) and evaluate your driving skills on public roads. The road test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. Once you pass all tests, you'll have your photo taken and receive a temporary license on the spot. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.
License validity periods and when to renew
A Georgia Class D license is valid for eight years if you're 21 or older. If you're under 21, your license is valid for five years. Your expiration date is printed on the front of your license. You can renew your license up to 12 months before it expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute.
If your license expires while you're out of state or unable to visit a DDS office, you can still renew by mail as long as you meet the conditions listed above. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Georgia, even if you've already submitted a renewal process.
DDS sends renewal reminders by mail about 60 days before your license expires. If you don't receive a reminder, check the expiration date on your license and plan ahead. Renewing early gives you time to handle any issues that might come up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a Georgia driver's license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?
Yes. Georgia issues licenses to non-citizens who have a valid visa, work permit, or other immigration document. You'll need to bring your immigration document along with the other required documents. Some immigration statuses may limit how long your license is valid.
What happens if I fail the written test or road test?
You can retake the test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no additional fee to retake a test. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. You can study the Georgia Driver's Manual online at dds.georgia.gov to prepare.
How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?
You receive a temporary license on paper the day you pass. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving during this time.
Can I change my name or address on my license without renewing?
Yes. You can update your address at any DDS office for free. For a legal name change, you'll need to bring a court order or marriage certificate. There may be a small fee for a replacement license with your new name.
What should I do if my license is lost or stolen?
Report it to your local police department and get a report number. Then visit a DDS office with your report number and the documents you used to get your original license. You'll pay $20 for a replacement. The replacement process is faster than getting a new license.