What you need to do to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Georgia driver's license
You can replace a Georgia driver's license in person at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, or online through the Georgia DDS website if your license was lost or stolen and you meet certain conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and costs $32 for a standard replacement. The online route, available only for lost or stolen licenses, costs $20 and takes about 5 to 7 business days to arrive by mail.
You'll need to bring your Social Security number, proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and payment. If your license was stolen, you can report it during the replacement process. If it was damaged, you must go in person because DDS needs to see the damage.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, and you can find your nearest location and current wait times on the Georgia DDS website before you go.
- A standard replacement costs $32 in person or $20 online, and you'll need proof of your address dated within the last 60 days.
- Online replacement is only for lost or stolen licenses and takes 5 to 7 business days; damaged licenses require an in-person visit.
- You can renew your license early if it's damaged or if you're replacing it, so you won't need to renew again as soon.
Replacing your license in person at a DDS office
Walk into any Georgia Department of Driver Services office with your Social Security number, proof of address, and $32. You do not need an appointment. Bring your damaged license if you have it, or be ready to describe what happened if it's lost or stolen.
The staff will take a new photo, print your replacement license on the spot, and you'll leave with it the same day. Bring the original proof of address document — a copy is not enough. Acceptable documents include a current utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Check the Georgia DDS website before you go — it shows real-time wait times for each office so you can choose the least busy location or time.
Replacing your license online if it was lost or stolen
Go to the Georgia DDS website and select "Replace a Lost or Stolen License." You'll enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. You'll pay $20 by credit or debit card, and your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file within 5 to 7 business days.
Online replacement is faster and cheaper than in person, but it's only for lost or stolen licenses — not damaged ones. You cannot use this route if your license was damaged in any way. You also cannot use it if your address has changed; you'll need to update your address in person at a DDS office first, or change it online through the Georgia DDS website before you order the replacement.
Once you order online, you cannot cancel or change the mailing address. Make sure your address is correct before you submit payment.
What to do if your license was stolen
You can report your license stolen during the replacement process, either in person or online. You do not need to file a police report first, though you can if you want to. Reporting it to DDS tells them the license is no longer valid, which protects you if someone tries to use it.
If you're replacing in person, tell the DDS staff that your license was stolen and they will mark it as invalid in the system. If you're replacing online, you'll select "stolen" as the reason during checkout, and DDS will do the same.
Renewing your license at the same time as replacing it
If your license is close to expiring, you can renew it while you replace it. This costs an additional $32 (or $20 online) and gives you a new license with a new expiration date, so you won't need to renew again for several years. Ask the DDS staff if your license is may be able to access for early renewal, or check the Georgia DDS website before you go.
Early renewal is useful if you're replacing a damaged or lost license and your current license expires within the next year. You'll pay both fees at once, but you'll avoid a second trip to DDS in a few months.
Replacing your license if you've moved or changed your name
If your address has changed since your license was issued, you'll need to update it before you can replace your license online. You can update your address online through the Georgia DDS website, or in person at any DDS office. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, you'll need to bring the legal document proving the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You can replace your license and update your name in the same visit or transaction.
What happens if you lose your replacement license
If you lose the replacement license you just received, you can order another one using the same process. There is no limit to how many times you can replace a lost or stolen license, but each replacement costs $32 in person or $20 online. If you lose multiple licenses in a short time, DDS may ask questions, but they will still issue a replacement.
To reduce the chance of losing your license again, consider keeping a photo of it on your phone or in a find location at home. This won't replace the physical license for driving, but it can help you remember your license number and other details if you need them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it expired?
Yes. You can replace an expired license the same way you replace an active one. If your license expired more than a few years ago, DDS may require you to take a new written test or vision test, so call your local DDS office first to ask what they need from you.
Do I need to bring my old license to replace it?
No. If your license is lost or stolen, you don't have it to bring. If it's damaged, bring it if you can — it helps DDS process your request faster — but it's not required. You can describe what happened instead.
How long does a replacement license last?
A replacement license is valid until the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license expired in 2027, your replacement also expires in 2027. When that date arrives, you'll need to renew your license through the standard renewal process.
What if I don't have proof of my current address?
You must bring a document dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it. If you don't have one, contact your utility company, bank, or landlord and ask them to mail you a statement. You can also ask a family member or roommate if they have a bill in your name at your address.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
If you're replacing in person, you must be there yourself — DDS will not hand your license to someone else. If you're replacing online, your license will be mailed to the address on file, so anyone at that address can receive it, but it's addressed to you.