Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Georgia's Department of Driver Services requires you to bring specific documents in person to prove your identity, residency, and Social Security number. You cannot mail these in or submit them online — you must show originals or certified copies at a DDS office.

Bring one document from each of these three categories: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. A single document can sometimes count toward two categories if it contains both pieces of information, but you still need to cover all three.

Proof of identity documents

For proof of identity, bring one of these: a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a valid passport card, a military ID, a military dependent ID, a Native American tribal ID, or a consular report of birth abroad. If you are renewing and your current Georgia license is not expired, you can use that instead.

If you are using a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with the raised seal or embossed stamp — a photocopy will not work. The document must show your full legal name and date of birth. If your name has changed since the document was issued, bring the legal document that shows the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

Proof of residency documents

For proof of residency, bring one document showing your current Georgia address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a homeowners insurance policy, a bank or credit card statement, or a government-issued document with your address on it.

The document must show your name and current address and be dated within the last 60 days. If you recently moved and do not have a utility bill or lease in your name yet, ask the DDS office what alternative they will accept — some offices have flexibility for people in transition.

Proof of Social Security number

Bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, a pay stub, or a benefit statement from Social Security, unemployment, or a pension. The document must show your full Social Security number or the last four digits plus your name.

If you do not have a Social Security number, you will need to bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one. This is rare but applies to some non-citizens.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring one document proving your identity, one proving your live in Georgia, and one showing your Social Security number — all originals or certified copies.
  • Certified birth certificates require a raised seal or embossed stamp and cannot be photocopies.
  • Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show your current address.
  • You must appear in person at a DDS office with these documents; you cannot mail them or submit them online.
  • If your name has changed, bring the legal document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.

What to do at the DDS office

Bring your documents to any Georgia DDS office during business hours. You will fill out a form (the DL 44), have your photo taken, and take a written test on road signs and traffic laws. You will also take a vision test and a road test if you are getting your first license or renewing after a suspension.

The written test covers Georgia traffic laws and road signs. You can study the official Georgia Driver's Manual online at the DDS website before you go. The road test is conducted by a DDS examiner and takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you fail any test, you can retake it, but you may have to pay a retest fee.

Bring your Social Security number in your head or on paper — you will need to provide it during the process. Bring cash or a debit card because DDS offices accept both for fees. Check the DDS website for your local office's hours and whether they require an appointment or accept walk-ins, as this varies by location.

Fees and timeline

A Georgia driver's license costs money, and the amount depends on the type of license and how long it is valid for. A standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. If you are under 21, the fee is different from the fee for drivers 21 and older. Check the DDS website or call your local office for the exact current fee.

You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot if you pass all tests. Your physical license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the card to arrive.

If you are renewing or replacing an expired license

If your license expired less than two years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online without taking the tests again. Check the DDS website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal. If your license expired more than two years ago, you will need to come in person and take the written and vision tests again, though you may not need the road test.

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it — you will need to complete the reinstatement process first, which involves paying a reinstatement fee and sometimes taking tests again. Contact DDS directly to find out what you need to do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a photocopy of my birth certificate?

No. Your birth certificate must be a certified copy with a raised seal or embossed stamp. A photocopy will not be accepted, even if it is notarized. If you do not have a certified copy, you can order one from the county or state where you were born.

What if I do not have a current utility bill or lease?

Call your local DDS office and explain your situation. Some offices accept alternative documents for people who recently moved, such as a letter from a landlord or a recent bank statement. Do not assume you cannot get a license — ask what they will accept.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card or can I bring a pay stub?

Either works. You need one document that shows your Social Security number or the last four digits plus your name. A pay stub, W-2, tax return, or benefit statement all count. Your Social Security card itself is not required.

What happens if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or come back another day. You will have to pay a retest fee each time you retake it. Study the Georgia Driver's Manual before your next attempt — it covers everything on the test.

How long does the temporary license last?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days while you wait for your physical card to arrive by mail. If your card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact DDS to report it. Do not drive after the 45 days expire without your physical card.