What you need to do to get a Georgia driver's license

To get a driver's license in Georgia, you will visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person, pass a written test about traffic laws, pass a vision test, and pass a driving test. You must bring specific documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency. The whole process usually takes a few weeks from start to finish, though you can get a temporary permit to drive while you wait for your license to arrive in the mail.

Georgia issues licenses to people age 16 and older. If you are under 18, you will follow a different path than an adult — you will get a learner's permit first, hold it for a set time, then take the driving test. Adults 18 and up can move straight to the full license if they pass all three tests on the same day.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DDS office in person with documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia address before you can take any test.
  • Georgia requires a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision screening, and a practical driving test in a vehicle with a DDS examiner.
  • If you are under 18, you must get a learner's permit first and hold it for at least one month before you can take the driving test.
  • Your physical license card arrives by mail within two weeks; you can drive with a temporary paper permit while you wait.
  • The total cost is around $32 for a license, plus fees for the written test and driving test, which vary by location.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Before you schedule a test or visit an office, gather your documents. You need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state license), proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return), and proof of Georgia residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). All documents must be originals or certified copies — photos or printouts will not work.

If your name has changed since your identity document was issued, bring a document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must sign your process in person at the DDS office.

The written 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 is taken on a computer at the DDS office, and you get your score when ready.

You can study for free using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is available on the DDS website. Many people also use practice tests online to get used to the format. If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

The vision test and driving test

The vision test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You read letters and numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision test, you cannot take the driving test that day, but you can return after you have seen an eye doctor.

The driving test takes about 20 minutes. A DDS examiner sits in the car with you while you drive on public roads. They watch how you handle turns, stops, parking, and how you respond to traffic. You must follow all traffic laws during the test — speeding, running a red light, or hitting a curb will result in failure. You can retake the driving test, but you must wait at least one day between attempts.

Different rules if you are under 18

If you are under 18, Georgia requires you to get a learner's permit before you take the driving test. To get the permit, you pass the written test and vision test at a DDS office. Once you have the permit, you must hold it for at least one month and practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old.

During the learner's permit phase, you cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. After you have held the permit for one month, you can schedule your driving test. Once you pass, you get your full license.

How to find a DDS office and schedule your test

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the DDS website by entering your county or city. Many offices allow you to schedule tests online or by phone; some still require you to walk in. Check your local office's website to see which method they use, because wait times vary widely — some offices have openings within days, while others may have a wait of several weeks.

When you call or go online to schedule, have your Social Security number and date of birth ready. You will choose a date and time for your written test. The vision and driving tests are usually scheduled after you pass the written test, either the same day or within a few days.

What happens after you pass all three tests

Once you pass the written test, vision test, and driving test, the DDS office will issue you a temporary paper permit that you can use to drive when ready. Your physical license card is printed and mailed to the address you provided. It usually arrives within two weeks, though it can take longer during busy periods.

Your license is valid for eight years if you are an adult, or until age 21 if you are under 18 when you get it. You will need to renew it before it expires. The DDS website shows your license status and expected arrival date if you create an online account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the driving test in a car I do not own?

Yes. The car must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition, but it does not have to be yours. Many people borrow a family member's car or use a driving school's vehicle. The car must have working brakes, lights, and wipers, and the examiner must be able to sit in the front passenger seat.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake it after waiting at least one day. There is no limit to how many times you can try. Many people pass on their second or third attempt. You do not have to retake the written test or vision test unless your vision has changed.

Do I need to take a driver's education course?

No course is required for adults. If you are under 18, Georgia does not require a formal course, but some insurance companies offer discounts if you complete one. A course can also help you prepare for the tests.

What if I move to Georgia from another state?

You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Georgia license at a DDS office. You will need your current license, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You do not have to retake the written or driving tests, though you will still need a vision screening.

How much does a Georgia driver's license cost?

A license costs around $32. The written test and driving test each have separate fees that vary by location, typically a few dollars each. Some DDS offices accept cash, card, or check; others accept only certain payment methods, so call ahead to confirm.