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

To get a driver's license in Georgia, you will visit your local Department of Driver Services office, pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a vision test, and pass a driving test. You must be at least 16 years old. The entire process takes multiple visits spread over weeks or months — you cannot complete it in one day. Georgia issues a Class D license for regular driving, which is what most people need.

The state requires you to bring specific documents proving your identity, residency, and Social Security number. You will pay a fee at your first visit. After you pass all three tests, you will receive your physical license in the mail within two weeks.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Driver Services office in person with documents proving your identity, Georgia residency, and Social Security number before you can take any test.
  • The written test covers Georgia traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the free Georgia Driver's Manual available on the DDS website.
  • You must pass the vision test and written test before you can schedule a driving test, which is the final step.
  • The driving test must be taken in a vehicle registered in Georgia with valid insurance, and you must bring a licensed adult if you are under 18.
  • Your physical license arrives by mail after you pass all tests; you receive a temporary paper license at the office to use when ready.

Documents you must bring to the Department of Driver Services

Bring one document that proves your identity and one that proves you live in Georgia. A passport works for identity. For residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current Georgia address dated within the last 60 days. A piece of mail from a government agency also works.

You must also bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number, such as a W-2 form or tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for one.

If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate or passport. If you changed your name, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change. Bring the originals — photocopies are not accepted.

The written test: what to study and how to prepare

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 multiple choice and takes about 20 minutes.

Study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is free and available as a PDF on the Department of Driver Services website. The manual covers everything on the test. You can also take practice tests on the DDS website to see what kinds of questions appear. Many people study the manual for a few hours and pass on their first try; others need to study longer or take the test more than once.

You can retake the written test the same day if you fail, but you must pay the test fee again. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it.

The vision test and what disqualifies you

At your DDS office visit, a staff member will check your vision using an eye chart. You must see at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you will be told to see an eye doctor and return with a vision correction form signed by the doctor.

Certain medical conditions can disqualify you from holding a license. These include untreated seizure disorders, severe mental illness that affects judgment, and some heart conditions. If you have a condition you are unsure about, contact your local DDS office before you visit — they can tell you whether it will prevent you from getting a license.

The driving test: scheduling, what to bring, and what the examiner checks

You can schedule your driving test only after you have passed the written test and vision test. Call your local DDS office or schedule online through the Georgia DDS website. Wait times vary by location; some offices have openings within a week, while others may have a wait of several weeks.

On the day of your driving test, bring your temporary paper license (issued after you pass the written test), proof of vehicle insurance, and the vehicle's registration. The vehicle must be registered in Georgia and have valid insurance. You must also bring a valid driver's license holder or a parent or guardian if you are under 18 — this person sits in the car during the test but does not speak.

The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, parking, backing up, and stopping. The examiner watches how you handle the steering wheel, check your mirrors, use turn signals, and follow traffic laws. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and covers both city streets and highway driving. You pass or fail based on whether you commit any major errors (such as hitting an object or running a red light) or too many minor errors (such as not signaling a turn).

Fees and timeline from start to finish

The written test and vision test each cost money; the driving test costs money. The total cost varies depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A Class D license valid for four years costs less than one valid for eight years. Contact your local DDS office or check the Georgia DDS website for the exact current fee.

The timeline depends on how quickly you study and how soon you can get a driving test appointment. Many people pass the written test within a week of visiting the office. The driving test wait can range from one week to several weeks depending on your location and the time of year. After you pass the driving test, your physical license arrives by mail within two weeks. From your first office visit to receiving your license in the mail typically takes four to eight weeks, but can be faster or slower.

If you fail the driving test

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test. You must wait at least one day before scheduling another driving test, and you must pay the driving test fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the driving test.

When you schedule your next test, ask the DDS office what errors the examiner noted. This helps you know what to practice. Many people benefit from a few hours of practice driving with a licensed adult between attempts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit first instead of going straight for a full license?

Yes. A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. You get a permit by passing the written test and vision test, then waiting a set period before taking the driving test. This is common for younger drivers. Ask your DDS office about the waiting period for your age group.

What if I have an out-of-state license already?

You can transfer your license to Georgia without retaking the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is valid and you have lived in Georgia for less than 30 days. Bring your out-of-state license, Georgia residency documents, and your Social Security card to a DDS office. If you have lived in Georgia longer than 30 days, you must take the written and driving tests.

Do I have to take the tests in English?

The written test is available in several languages including Spanish, Vietnamese, and Korean. Call your local DDS office to ask which languages are available at your location. The driving test is not translated — the examiner speaks English, but you do not need to speak English to pass it.

What happens if I move to a different Georgia county?

You can visit any DDS office in the state to take your tests or renew your license. You do not have to go to the office in your county. Find office locations and hours on the Georgia DDS website.

Can I get a license if I do not have a Social Security number?

You can get a license if you bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number. Bring this letter along with your other required documents to a DDS office.