How to Get or Renew a Driver's License in DeKalb County

Where to go for a DeKalb County driver's license

DeKalb County driver's licenses are issued by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS), not by the county itself. You cannot get a license at a county courthouse or county office — you must visit a DDS location. Georgia has two types of locations: full-service Driver Services offices that handle new licenses, renewals, and replacements, and express locations that handle renewals and limited transactions only.

DeKalb County has multiple DDS offices. The main full-service office is located in Decatur, and there are additional locations in other parts of the county. Before you go, check the Georgia DDS website or call 678-413-8400 to confirm the office hours and current wait times, since hours vary by location and change seasonally.

Key Takeaways

Georgia driver's licenses are issued by the Department of Driver Services (DDS), with full-service offices in DeKalb County that handle new licenses, renewals, and replacements.
You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number to get or renew a license.
New licenses require an in-person visit, a vision test, and a photograph; renewals can sometimes be done by mail or online if you meet certain conditions.
Processing takes about 10 business days for a standard license mailed to your address; you can request a temporary paper license to drive while you wait.
Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid — check the DDS website for current pricing before you visit.

Documents you need to bring

Georgia requires specific documents for any driver's license transaction. You must bring one form of primary identification (a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), one form of proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or ITIN. 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.

If you are renewing a license and your name has changed since your last license was issued, bring a document proving the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are getting your first license, bring your learner's permit if you have one. Bring originals or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted for most documents.

Getting a new license versus renewing

A new license requires an in-person visit to a full-service DDS office. You will take a vision test, answer questions about your medical history, and have a photograph taken. You must pass a written knowledge test unless you hold a valid license from another state or country. If you have a learner's permit, you may be able to skip the written test. Bring all required documents and be prepared to spend 30 minutes to an hour at the office, depending on wait times.

A renewal is simpler if you meet certain conditions. If your current license is not expired and you have no medical restrictions, you may renew by mail or online through the Georgia DDS website. Online renewal is available if your license expires more than 30 days in the future and you have not renewed online in the past four years. If you cannot renew by mail or online, you must visit an office in person, but you will not retake the vision or written tests.

How long the process takes and what to expect

A standard license is mailed to your address and arrives within 10 business days of your visit. You can request a temporary paper license at the office, which you can use to drive when ready while you wait for the plastic card. The temporary license is valid for 45 days. If you need the license faster, some DDS offices offer expedited service for an additional fee, though availability varies by location.

If you are renewing by mail, the process takes 15 to 20 business days from the date DDS receives your process. Check the Georgia DDS website for the current mailing address and instructions. Do not send cash; payment must be by check or money order.

Fees and payment methods

Driver's license fees depend on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Renewal fees are lower than new license fees. Real ID-compliant licenses (required for federal purposes like air travel) may have a different fee. Check the Georgia DDS website or call before you visit to confirm the exact fee for your situation, since pricing can change.

DDS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. If you renew by mail, you must pay by check or money order — cash cannot be mailed. Keep your receipt as proof of payment.

What to do if your license is suspended or revoked

If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the Georgia DDS directly at 678-413-8400 to find out the reason and what steps you must take to restore your driving privileges. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or medical conditions reported to DDS. The process to restore your license varies depending on the reason for the suspension.

Do not visit an office in person until you have confirmed with DDS that your suspension has been cleared. Visiting without clearing the issue first will waste your time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my DeKalb County license online?

You can renew online through the Georgia DDS website if your current license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and your license expires more than 30 days in the future. You cannot renew online if you have renewed online in the past four years. If you do not meet these conditions, you must renew by mail or in person at a DDS office.

What if I lost my license or it was stolen?

You must visit a full-service DDS office in person to report a lost or stolen license and get a replacement. Bring your required identification and proof of residency. You will have a new photograph taken. A replacement license is mailed to you within 10 business days, and you can request a temporary paper license to use while you wait.

Do I need a Real ID license to fly domestically?

Yes, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a Real ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of identification to board a domestic flight. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner. When you renew your Georgia license, ask the DDS office if you want the Real ID version. You may need to bring additional documents to prove citizenship.

How do I change my address on my license?

You can change your address online through the Georgia DDS website if your license is not expired. If you cannot change it online, visit a DDS office in person and bring proof of your new address. You do not need to pay a fee to change your address alone, but you will receive a new license card mailed to your new address.

What if I fail the vision test?

If you fail the vision test, you cannot get a license until you pass. You may be able to get a corrective lens restriction on your license, which means you must wear glasses or contacts while driving. Ask the DDS office about this option. You can retake the vision test at any time by visiting an office again.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.