Get a replacement license at your local Georgia DDS office with your Social Security number and proof of residency
You can replace a lost Georgia driver's license in person at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. You'll need your Social Security number, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment for the replacement fee. Georgia charges $32 for a standard replacement license valid for eight years. The process takes about 30 minutes at most offices, and you'll receive your new license the same day.
If you've lost your license and need to drive when ready, you have two options: get a temporary paper license at the DDS office that's valid for 30 days, or order a replacement online through the Georgia DDS website and pick it up at an office within five business days. The online route costs the same $32 but saves you a trip if you're not in a hurry.
Key Takeaways
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and $32 to any Georgia DDS office to get a replacement license the same day.
- A temporary paper license valid for 30 days is issued when ready at the office if you need to drive right away.
- You can order a replacement online through the Georgia DDS website and pick it up at an office within five business days instead of waiting in line.
- Georgia DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, and some locations offer Saturday hours — check the office locator on the DDS website for your nearest location and hours.
What documents you need to bring
Georgia requires two pieces of identification to process a replacement license. Your Social Security number counts as one form of ID. For the second, bring a document that proves your current address — a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance policy all work, as long as it's dated within 60 days of your visit. A government-issued ID like a passport is also acceptable.
If your address has changed since your lost license was issued, bring the document showing your new address. If you don't have a current proof of residency, you can bring two documents that show your name and address, even if one is older than 60 days.
Where to go and what to expect
Find your nearest Georgia DDS office using the office locator on the official Georgia DDS website (dds.georgia.gov). Enter your city or zip code to see locations, hours, and whether that office takes walk-ins or requires an appointment. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some busier locations now use an online appointment system to manage wait times.
Bring all your documents and arrive during posted business hours. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some offices close for lunch between noon and 1 p.m. A few locations offer Saturday hours. The office will take a new photo, verify your information against your Social Security number, and issue your replacement license on the spot. You'll drive away with your new license the same day.
Getting a temporary license if you need to drive now
If you need to drive before your replacement license arrives, ask for a temporary paper license at the DDS office. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while your permanent replacement is being processed. You don't pay extra for it — it's included with your $32 replacement fee. The temporary license is printed when ready, so you can leave the office and drive the same day.
Keep the temporary license with you while driving. It's not a physical card, so treat it like any other important document. If you lose the temporary license before your permanent one arrives, you'll need to return to the DDS office and request another one.
Ordering online and picking up at an office
You can start a replacement order on the Georgia DDS website without visiting an office first. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Order a Replacement License," and enter your information. You'll pay the $32 fee online using a credit or debit card. The system will give you a confirmation number and tell you which DDS office you've chosen for pickup.
Your replacement license will be ready for pickup within five business days. Go to the office you selected during ordering, bring your confirmation number and proof of residency, and they'll hand you your new license. This route works well if you want to avoid the wait at a busy office, though you still need to visit an office to pick up your license in person.
If your license was stolen or used fraudulently
If someone stole your license or you suspect it's been used fraudulently, report it to the Georgia DDS when you explore for your replacement. Tell the office staff that your license was stolen, not just lost. They'll flag your old license number in the system so it can't be used. You still pay the standard $32 replacement fee and follow the same process.
If you believe your identity has been compromised beyond just the lost license, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This is separate from replacing your license but protects you if someone tries to open accounts in your name.
Fees and payment methods
Georgia charges $32 for a standard replacement driver's license valid for eight years. If you're under 21, the replacement is also $32 but your license will expire on your 21st birthday. You can pay with cash, check, debit card, or credit card at the DDS office. If you order online, you must pay with a credit or debit card.
There are no additional fees for the temporary paper license or for flagging a stolen license. If you need your replacement faster than the standard timeline, Georgia does not offer expedited processing, so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license by mail?
No, Georgia requires you to appear in person at a DDS office to get a replacement license. You must provide proof of residency and have your photo taken. You can start the order online, but you must pick it up at an office.
What if I don't have proof of residency?
Bring two documents with your name and address instead of one current document. Older utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements work. If you have no documents showing your address, call your local DDS office to ask what alternatives they accept.
How long does a replacement license take if I order online?
Your replacement license will be ready for pickup within five business days of placing your online order. You still need to visit the DDS office in person to pick it up and show proof of residency.
Can I get a replacement license if I'm not a Georgia resident?
No, you must be a Georgia resident to hold a Georgia driver's license. If you've moved out of state, you'll need to get a license from your new state instead.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with an error?
Return to the DDS office with your damaged or incorrect license and your proof of residency. They'll issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge.