Where to get a replacement Georgia driver's license

You can replace your Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office across the state. Georgia has about 60 DDS locations, including offices in most county seats and major cities. You do not need an appointment at most locations, but some offices accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis while others use a reservation system.

The fastest way to find your nearest office and check current wait times is the DDS office locator on the Georgia DMV website (dds.georgia.gov). The site shows hours, services available at each location, and whether that office is currently accepting walk-ins or requires a reservation. Some offices also let you reserve a time slot online before you go.

If you cannot visit an office in person, Georgia does not currently offer mail-in replacement for standard driver's licenses, though you can renew by mail if your license is not expired and you meet other conditions. For a replacement, you must appear in person.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Driver Services office in person with a valid form of identification and proof of your Social Security number to replace your license.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license, and the new license is typically mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.
  • Georgia accepts a limited list of ID documents for replacement, including a passport, military ID, or previous Georgia license, so check what you have before you go.
  • Some DDS offices use online reservations while others operate first-come, first-served, so check the office locator on dds.georgia.gov before you visit.

Documents you need to bring

Georgia requires two things to replace your driver's license: proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number. You cannot replace your license without both.

For proof of identity, Georgia accepts a limited set of documents. These include a valid U.S. passport, a military ID, a previous Georgia driver's license, a Georgia ID card, a passport card, or a tribal ID. If your previous Georgia license is expired, it still counts as proof of identity for replacement purposes. A regular state ID card from another state does not work — it must be a Georgia-issued document or a federal document like a passport.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a document that shows both your name and Social Security number, such as a bank statement or insurance policy. DDS staff can tell you on the phone whether a specific document will work if you are unsure.

Bring your current address as well. If you have moved since your last license was issued, bring a document showing your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. If your address has not changed, you do not need a separate proof-of-address document.

The replacement process and fees

When you arrive at a DDS office, you will fill out Form DL 44, the process for a driver's license. Staff will verify your identity and Social Security information, take a new photo, and collect the replacement fee of $32. This fee is for a standard Class D driver's license valid for eight years. If you need a different class of license (commercial, motorcycle, or other), the fee may differ — ask at the office.

You do not need to pass a written test or driving test to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license. The office will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot that you can use to drive while your new plastic license is being mailed. This temporary license is valid for 45 days.

Your new license will be mailed to the address on file, typically within 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, some DDS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee — check with your local office about whether this option is available and what it costs.

Replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license

The process is the same whether your license is lost, stolen, or damaged. You do not need to file a police report to replace a stolen license, though you may want to do so for your own records. Georgia does not require you to report the theft to DDS before explore for a replacement.

If your license was damaged in a way that makes it unreadable or unsafe to use (water damage, torn, faded), bring the damaged license with you if you have it. DDS staff will take it and destroy it. If you do not have the damaged license, you can still replace it — just tell the staff member what happened.

Replacing an expired license

If your license has expired, you can still replace it at a DDS office using the same process and documents described above. You do not need to renew first and then replace — one visit covers both. The new license will have a new expiration date eight years from the date you replace it.

If your license expired more than five years ago, Georgia may require you to pass a vision test before issuing a replacement. Bring your glasses or contacts if you use them. Some offices also require a written test if your license has been expired for a very long time, though this is less common for straightforward replacement. Call your local DDS office ahead of time if your license expired more than five years ago to ask what to expect.

What to do if you cannot visit an office

Georgia does not offer a mail-in replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. You must appear in person at a DDS office. If you are unable to visit due to a disability or medical condition, call your local DDS office to ask about accommodations. Some offices can arrange for you to be seen at a specific time or may have other options available.

If you are out of state or out of the country, you will need to return to Georgia to replace your license in person. Some military members stationed overseas may have other options — contact the DDS directly to ask about your situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

No. Georgia does not offer online replacement for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. You must visit a Department of Driver Services office in person with proof of identity and proof of your Social Security number. You can renew an unexpired license by mail, but replacement requires an in-person visit.

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

Your new license is typically mailed within 7 to 10 business days after you visit the office. You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot that is valid for 45 days while you wait for the plastic license to arrive. If you need your license faster, ask your local DDS office whether expedited service is available.

What if I do not have a Social Security card?

You do not need the card itself. You can bring a W-2, 1099, tax return, bank statement, or insurance policy that shows your Social Security number. Any document with your name and Social Security number on it will work. Call your local DDS office if you are unsure whether a specific document is acceptable.

Do I need to take a test to replace my license?

No written or driving test is required for replacement. You will need a vision test only if your license expired more than five years ago. If you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license that is still valid or expired less than five years ago, no test is needed.

Can I change my name or address when I replace my license?

Yes. If you have changed your name, bring a certified copy of your marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. If you have moved, bring a document showing your new address dated within the last 60 days. Both changes can be made at the same time you replace your license for no additional fee.