What You Need to Get a Georgia Driver's License

Georgia driver's license requirements depend on your age and whether you're a new resident or renewing

Georgia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Driver Services (DDS). The documents you need and the steps you follow change based on whether you're under 18, over 18, a new Georgia resident, or renewing an existing license. All applicants must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, and most must pass a road test before DDS issues a license.

The state does not issue licenses by mail or online. You must visit a DDS office in person, bring the required documents, and complete the tests on the day of your appointment. Georgia offers online appointment scheduling through the DDS website, and walk-ins are accepted at most locations, though wait times vary.

Key Takeaways

All Georgia driver's license applicants must bring proof of identity, proof of Georgia residency, and a Social Security number or a letter from Social Security.
Applicants under 18 must complete a DDS-approved driver education course and hold a learner's permit for a minimum of 12 months before taking the road test.
Applicants 18 and older can take the written and road tests without a learner's permit, but must still pass both before DDS issues a license.
Georgia charges a fee for each license type; the cost varies depending on whether you want a standard license, a REAL ID-compliant license, or a commercial license.
You can schedule an appointment online through the DDS website or visit a DDS office during business hours; some locations accept walk-ins.

Documents you must bring to a DDS office

Georgia requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Acceptable forms of identity include a valid passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a state ID from another state. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can request one from the Georgia Vital Records office or the state where you were born.

For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your name and current Georgia address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a government-issued document, or a piece of mail from a government agency. A driver's license from another state does not count as proof of residency.

You must also provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration confirming your number. DDS will not issue a license without this information.

Requirements for applicants under 18

Georgia law requires all drivers under 18 to complete a DDS-approved driver education course before they can obtain a learner's permit. The course covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take the course online or in person through a private driving school or your high school, if your school offers it. After you complete the course, bring your certificate of completion to a DDS office along with your required documents.

Once you have your learner's permit, you must hold it for a minimum of 12 months before you can take the road test. During this time, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is in the front passenger seat. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

After 12 months with your learner's permit, you can schedule a road test at a DDS office. The test takes about 20 minutes and covers basic vehicle control, turning, parking, and following traffic laws. If you pass, DDS will issue your driver's license. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after waiting one business day.

Requirements for applicants 18 and older

If you are 18 or older and have never held a driver's license, you do not need a learner's permit or a driver education course. You can go directly to a DDS office, pass the written knowledge test and the road test, and receive your license on the same day if you pass both tests.

The written test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You have 40 minutes to answer 40 multiple-choice questions. You must answer at least 30 questions correctly to pass. If you do not pass, you can retake the test after one business day.

The road test takes about 20 minutes. The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks such as starting the vehicle, turning, parking, and stopping. You must use your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by a DDS-approved testing facility. If you pass both tests, DDS will issue your license when ready.

Renewing or replacing an existing Georgia license

Georgia driver's licenses expire eight years after the date of issue. You can renew your license online through the DDS website if you meet certain conditions: your license must not be expired by more than two years, you must not have any medical conditions that would disqualify you, and you must not have any unpaid traffic violations or child support obligations. If you meet these conditions, you can renew online and DDS will mail your new license to your address on file.

If you cannot renew online, you must visit a DDS office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency, and payment for the renewal fee. You will not need to retake the written or road test unless your license was suspended or revoked.

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can replace it at a DDS office. Bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and payment for the replacement fee. DDS will issue a replacement license with the same expiration date as your original license.

REAL ID compliance and commercial licenses

Georgia offers a REAL ID-compliant driver's license that meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. A REAL ID license costs more than a standard license and requires additional documentation, including proof of your Social Security number and proof of your legal presence in the United States. If you are a U.S. citizen, your birth certificate or passport serves as proof of legal presence.

Georgia also issues commercial driver's licenses (CDL) for people who drive commercial vehicles. A CDL requires a separate written test, a skills test, and a road test. You must be at least 18 years old to obtain a CDL, and you must pass a medical examination. The requirements vary depending on the class of vehicle you will drive.

DDS office locations and appointment scheduling

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the DDS website. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or weekend appointments. You can schedule an appointment online through the DDS website, or you can visit an office during business hours and take a number for a walk-in appointment.

Wait times for walk-in appointments vary by location and time of day. If you schedule an appointment online, you will receive a confirmation with your appointment date and time. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time for check-in. Bring all required documents and payment for the license fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Georgia driver's license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. Georgia issues driver's licenses to people who are not U.S. citizens if they can prove their legal presence in the United States. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, a visa, a work permit, or a green card. You must also meet all other requirements, including passing the written and road tests.

What happens if I fail the written test or the road test?

You can retake the test after one business day. There is no limit to the number of times you can retake the test, but you must pay the test fee each time. Study materials and practice tests are available on the DDS website.

How long does it take to get a Georgia driver's license?

If you are 18 or older and pass both the written and road tests on your first attempt, you can receive your license on the same day. If you are under 18, you must complete driver education and hold a learner's permit for 12 months before you can take the road test. Processing times for licenses ordered by mail vary.

Can I renew my Georgia license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. If you renew early, your new license will expire eight years from the date of renewal, not from the date your old license would have expired.

What is the cost of a Georgia driver's license?

The fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard eight-year license costs less than a REAL ID-compliant license. Replacement and renewal fees also differ. Check the DDS website for current fees, as they may change.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.