Where to get your driver license in Carrollton

In Carrollton, you get your driver license at the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Carrollton has one DDS office located at 311 Newnan Street, Carrollton, GA 30117. This is the only place in Carrollton where you can take the written test, road test, and receive your license on the same day if you pass both.

You cannot get a driver license at the county courthouse, police station, or any other local office — only at the DDS location. The office is open Monday through Friday, though hours vary by day. You can check the current hours and book a road test appointment on the Georgia DDS website before you go.

If you cannot reach the Carrollton office, the next nearest DDS office is in nearby Carroll County or neighboring counties. However, your test results and records stay with Georgia DDS statewide, so you can test in one location and pick up your license in another if needed.

Key Takeaways

  • The Carrollton DDS office at 311 Newnan Street is the only place in Carrollton to test and receive a driver license.
  • You need a Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity before you arrive — bring originals, not copies.
  • Road test appointments must be booked in advance through the Georgia DDS website; walk-in road tests are not available.
  • You will take the written test first, and only if you pass can you schedule a road test the same day or return another day.
  • The license fee is set by Georgia and does not vary by location; you pay at the Carrollton office when you receive your license.

Documents you need to bring

Bring originals of three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Georgia residency. Copies, photos, or digital versions are not accepted.

For proof of identity, bring a passport, military ID, or state ID from another state. A birth certificate alone is not enough. For proof of Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and Carrollton address on it.

If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to sign your process in person at the office. Bring their ID as well. If you are renewing a license that expired more than five years ago, you must retake both the written and road tests — you cannot straightforward renew by mail.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 multiple-choice questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; ask the DDS staff which languages are available at the Carrollton office.

You can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is free on the DDS website and also available in print at the Carrollton office. Many people study the manual for a few days before testing. There is no waiting period between failing and retaking the test — you can retake it the same day if you fail, though you may have to pay the test fee again.

The written test is taken on a computer at the office. You do not need to bring anything except your documents. The office provides the computer and shows you how to use it.

Scheduling and taking the road test

After you pass the written test, you must schedule a road test appointment. You cannot take the road test the same day you pass the written test — you must book it in advance through the Georgia DDS website or by calling the Carrollton office. Road test appointments fill up weeks in advance, especially in spring and summer, so book as soon as you know you will be ready.

For the road test, bring your written test receipt, your documents again, and a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors. A DDS examiner will ride with you and ask you to perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. The test takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you must schedule another appointment. There is no same-day retesting. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.

Fees and payment methods

Georgia sets the driver license fee statewide. The cost for a standard four-year license is the same at the Carrollton office as anywhere else in Georgia. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Ask about the current fee when you call or visit, as it can change.

You pay the fee only after you pass both the written and road tests and are ready to receive your license. If you fail either test, you do not pay the full license fee — you may pay only a test fee to retake the failed portion.

Getting your license after you pass

After you pass the road test, the DDS office prints your license on the spot. You will receive a temporary paper license that day and your plastic card license in the mail within one to two weeks. The temporary license is valid for driving while you wait for the card.

Your license is valid for four years from the date you receive it. You can renew it by mail if it has not been expired for more than five years, but if it has expired longer than that, you must return to the office and retake both tests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test without scheduling a road test first?

Yes. You take the written test when you arrive at the office, and you only schedule the road test if you pass. The road test appointment is separate and must be booked in advance, either before or after you pass the written test.

What if I fail the road test — do I have to retake the written test too?

No. Your written test result stays valid, and you only retake the road test. You must schedule a new road test appointment and return to the office on that date.

Can someone else pick up my license if I cannot go back to the office?

No. You must pick up your license in person at the Carrollton DDS office. You cannot have someone else collect it for you. Your temporary paper license is valid for driving in the meantime.

What if I move out of Carrollton after I get my license?

Your Georgia license is valid anywhere in the state and does not need to be updated if you move within Georgia. You only update your address if you move to another state or want to change it on your record.

Is there a vision test at the Carrollton office?

Yes. The DDS office gives a vision screening as part of the licensing process. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you may be required to see an eye doctor and bring a vision certificate before you can receive your license.