You can get a Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services office, online for renewals, or through a third-party location in some counties

Georgia's Department of Driver Services (DDS) runs the state's driver's license program. You can obtain a new license, renew an existing one, or replace a lost or damaged license at a DDS office, which are spread across the state. For renewals only, you can complete the process online without visiting an office. Some counties also have third-party locations — usually tag agents or other businesses — that handle certain transactions, though these typically cannot issue new licenses to first-time applicants.

The location you choose depends on whether you're getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing one. Each path has different requirements and takes different amounts of time. Knowing which location works for your situation will save you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • DDS offices are the only place to get a new Georgia driver's license if you've never had one or your license has been expired for more than two years.
  • You can renew your current license online at dds.georgia.gov if it's still valid or expired less than two years, without visiting an office.
  • Third-party tag agents in some counties can renew licenses and issue replacements, but cannot issue new licenses to first-time applicants.
  • DDS offices require an appointment, which you book online before you visit — walk-ins are not accepted.
  • You will need proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number at any DDS office.

Finding a DDS office near you

Georgia has 59 DDS offices statewide. You can find the one closest to you on the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov by entering your county or city. The site shows the office address, phone number, and hours of operation. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening hours or Saturday appointments.

Call ahead or check the website before you go. Some offices have longer wait times than others, and a few occasionally close for staff training or maintenance. The website also tells you which services each office offers — for example, some locations handle commercial driver's license (CDL) transactions, while others do not.

Booking an appointment at a DDS office

You must book an appointment before visiting a DDS office. Walk-ins are not accepted. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Schedule an Appointment," and choose the service you need (new license, renewal, replacement, etc.). The system will show you available dates and times at offices near you. You can book up to 60 days in advance.

When you book, you'll receive a confirmation number. Write it down or take a screenshot — you'll need it when you arrive. If you need to cancel or reschedule, do so through the same website at least 24 hours before your appointment. If you miss an appointment without canceling, you may have to wait longer to book the next one.

Renewing your license online

If your Georgia driver's license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you can renew it online without visiting an office. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Renew Your License Online," and follow the steps. You'll need your current license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes. You'll pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If your address has changed, update it before you renew, or your license will arrive at the old address. You cannot renew online if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than two years.

Using a third-party tag agent location

Some Georgia counties have tag agents or other third-party businesses authorized to handle certain driver's license transactions. These locations can renew valid licenses and issue replacements for lost or damaged ones, but they cannot issue new licenses to people who have never had one. Not all counties have third-party locations, and the services they offer vary.

To find a third-party location in your county, call your local county tag office or check the DDS website. Third-party locations typically have shorter wait times than DDS offices and do not require an appointment. However, they charge a service fee on top of the DDS fee. If you need a new license and no third-party location is available in your county, you must visit a DDS office.

Documents you'll need to bring

At any DDS office or third-party location, bring proof of identity, proof of Georgia residency, and your Social Security number. Acceptable forms of identity include a valid passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Your name on the residency document must match the name on your identity document.

If you're getting your first license, you'll also need to pass a written test and a driving test. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number. If you're renewing or replacing, bring your current license if you still have it. Bring glasses or contacts if you use them for driving — you'll need them during the vision screening.

What happens after you visit

If you visit a DDS office for a new license, you'll take a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a driving test on the same day or a scheduled follow-up day. Once you pass, your license is issued on the spot or mailed within 7 to 10 business days, depending on the office. For renewals and replacements, your new license is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

You can check the status of your license online at dds.georgia.gov using your driver's license number and date of birth. If your license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the DDS office where you applied. Keep your old license until the new one arrives — it remains valid for identification purposes until the new one is issued.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Georgia driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. A Social Security number is required to obtain a Georgia driver's license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license.

How much does a Georgia driver's license cost?

The fee varies depending on the type of license and how long it's valid for. A standard driver's license costs between $20 and $32. Renewals and replacements have different fees. Check the DDS website or call your local office for the exact cost of the transaction you need.

What if I moved to Georgia from another state?

You must get a Georgia driver's license within 30 days of moving to the state. You'll need to visit a DDS office for a new license. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of identity, proof of Georgia residency, and your Social Security number. You may not need to retake the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is valid.

Can I renew my license by mail?

No. Georgia does not offer mail-in renewals. You can renew online, visit a DDS office, or use a third-party tag agent location if one is available in your county.

What if my appointment gets canceled?

DDS occasionally cancels appointments due to office closures or staffing issues. If yours is canceled, you'll receive a notification. You can when ready book a new appointment through the website for a different date and time.