What you need to do right now

To get a replacement Georgia driver's license, you visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person with proof of identity and residency, pay the replacement fee, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter. Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, or you can request it on the spot if you pay an expedited fee — though this option is not available at all locations.

You do not need to retake the written or road test unless your license was suspended or revoked. If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to local police first; if it was damaged, bring the old one with you.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DDS office in person with a valid form of ID and proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license, and you pay at the counter before your photo is taken.
  • Your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days, but some offices offer same-day printing for an additional $20 to $25.
  • If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted.
  • You can check wait times and book an appointment online through the DDS website, which usually cuts your in-office time in half.

Gather your documents before you go

Bring one form of valid photo ID — your passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have a photo ID, you can use a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, but this takes longer and some offices turn people away. Call ahead if you are unsure whether your documents will work.

You also need proof that you live in Georgia right now. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days is acceptable. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you have moved recently and your ID shows an old address, bring both the ID and the proof of your new address.

If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report number if you have one — it is not required, but it speeds things up. If your license was damaged, bring what is left of it.

Find a DDS office and book an appointment

Go to the Georgia DDS website and use the office locator to find the location nearest you. Most cities have multiple offices, and wait times vary widely. The website shows current wait times for each location, updated throughout the day.

You can book an appointment online, which is faster than walking in. Appointments usually have shorter waits — sometimes 15 minutes instead of an hour. If you book online, you still pay the fee and have your photo taken in person; the appointment just reserves your spot in line.

Some offices are busier than others. If your nearest location shows a long wait, check an office 20 or 30 minutes away — the time saved often makes the drive worth it.

What happens at the DDS office

When you arrive, check in at the front desk with your documents. A staff member will verify your ID and proof of residency, then direct you to a payment window. You pay $32 for a standard replacement license. If you want same-day printing (available at some locations), you pay an additional $20 to $25 at this time.

After payment, you move to the photo station. You will sit for a new photo — wear something you are comfortable in, as this photo will be on your license for the next eight years. The photo is taken against a plain background, and you cannot wear sunglasses or a hat.

Once your photo is taken, you are done. If you paid for same-day printing, your license is ready in 15 to 30 minutes. If you chose standard mail delivery, you will receive your license in 7 to 10 business days at the address on your proof of residency.

If your license was suspended or revoked

You cannot get a replacement license while a suspension or revocation is active. You must first resolve the issue that caused the suspension or revocation — usually paying outstanding fines, completing a required course, or serving a waiting period.

To find out the status of your license, visit the DDS website and use the license status checker, or call the DDS customer service line. They will tell you exactly what you need to do before a replacement can be issued. Once the suspension or revocation is lifted, you can follow the normal replacement process.

Replacing your license by mail (limited situations)

Georgia does not offer mail-in replacement for most people — you must visit an office in person. The only exception is if you are a U.S. citizen living overseas and have a valid Georgia license. In that case, you can mail your process and documents to the DDS, but the process takes 4 to 6 weeks and costs more.

If you are temporarily unable to visit an office due to a medical condition or disability, call the DDS to discuss options. Some offices can accommodate requests for information, though you still must appear in person.

What to do if your new license does not arrive

Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If more than two weeks have passed and you have not received your license, contact the DDS customer service line with your confirmation number from your visit. They can check whether your license was mailed and provide a tracking update.

If your license was lost in the mail, the DDS can reissue it. You may need to visit an office again and pay another replacement fee, though some situations may have access to for a reprint at no charge. Call ahead to confirm what you need to bring.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?

Yes, but only at certain DDS locations. Same-day printing costs an additional $20 to $25 on top of the $32 replacement fee. Call your local office or check the DDS website to see if same-day service is available near you. If it is not, standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

You need something dated within the last 60 days showing your current address. If you have just moved and do not have a utility bill or lease yet, a bank statement, credit card statement, or mail from a government agency works. If you truly cannot get any of these, call the DDS to ask about alternatives — some offices may accept other documents on a case-by-case basis.

Do I need to retake the written test to get a replacement?

No. A replacement license is issued based on your existing license record. You only retake the written or road test if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you are renewing after it has expired for more than five years.

How much does a replacement license cost?

The replacement fee is $32. If you want same-day printing instead of mail delivery, add $20 to $25. If you need a duplicate license (a second copy of your current license) rather than a replacement, the cost is $20.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring your replacement documents plus proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will pay the standard $32 replacement fee. The DDS will update your name in the system and issue a new license with the correct name.