What you need to know before you go to the DMV
Georgia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Driver Services (DDS), which operates offices across the state. You will need to bring specific documents, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. The whole process typically takes a few weeks from the time you submit your documents to the time you receive your license in the mail.
Georgia recognizes several types of driver's licenses: a standard license for regular driving, a commercial license (CDL) if you drive large trucks or buses, and a learner's permit if you are under 18 or new to driving. Each has different requirements and testing rules. This guide covers the standard license, which is what most people need.
Key Takeaways
- You must bring a valid ID, proof of residency, proof of your Social Security number, and your birth certificate to a DDS office in person.
- Georgia requires you to pass a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a road test before you receive your license.
- The license fee is $32 for an eight-year license, and you can renew online if you do not need to update your photo.
- If you are under 18, you must first hold a learner's permit for a set period and follow restrictions on when and where you can drive.
- DDS offices accept appointments online, and booking ahead will save you time waiting in person.
Documents you must bring to the DDS office
Georgia requires four categories of documents. First, bring a valid ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. Second, bring proof of residency: a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Georgia address dated within the last 60 days. Third, bring proof of your Social Security number — a Social Security card, W-2 form, or 1099 form. Fourth, bring your birth certificate or certified copy.
If you are changing your name, bring the legal document that shows the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you are a non-citizen, bring your immigration documents — your visa, green card, or work authorization. DDS staff will make copies of what you bring, so bring originals if possible.
The written test and what it covers
The written knowledge test has 40 questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 30 correctly to pass. The test is offered on a computer at the DDS office on the same day you submit your documents. You can take it in English or Spanish.
The test covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, what different road signs mean, how to handle emergency vehicles, and what to do at traffic lights and stop signs. DDS publishes a free study guide on its website that contains all the material on the test. Most people study the guide for a few hours and pass on their first try. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day.
The vision test and road test
You will take a vision test at the DDS office as part of your appointment. The test checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. If you fail the vision test, you will not be allowed to take the road test that day, and you may need to see an eye doctor and bring a vision form back to DDS.
The road test happens at a separate appointment, usually within two to four weeks after you pass the written test. A DDS examiner will ride with you in your own car (or a car you borrow) and watch you drive for about 15 minutes. You will be tested on basic skills: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must pass the road test to receive your license. If you fail, you can retake it, but you will need to schedule another appointment.
How to book a DDS appointment and what to expect
Go to the DDS website and click "Schedule an Appointment." You will enter your zip code and see which offices near you have openings. Most offices book appointments several weeks in advance. Choose a date and time that works for you. You will receive a confirmation email with your appointment details.
Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they stay organized. The office will call your name, check your documents, take your photo, and have you sign forms. Then you will take the written test on a computer. If you pass, you will schedule your road test appointment before you leave. The whole visit usually takes 45 minutes to an hour.
The cost and how long it takes to receive your license
A standard eight-year driver's license costs $32. You pay this fee at the DDS office when you submit your documents. If you need a replacement license because yours was lost or damaged, the fee is the same. If you renew your license by mail or online without changing your photo, the cost is lower.
After you pass your road test, DDS will mail your physical license to the address you provided. This usually takes five to seven business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the DDS office that you can use to drive while you wait for the real one to arrive. Once your license arrives, the temporary one is no longer valid.
Special rules if you are under 18
Georgia requires drivers under 18 to hold a learner's permit for at least one year before they can take the road test for a full license. To get a learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old, pass the written test, and have a parent or guardian sign your process in person at the DDS office.
While you hold a learner's permit, you must have a licensed adult at least 21 years old in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free. After you hold the permit for one year and reach age 16, you can take the road test. Once you pass, you receive a full license with fewer restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Georgia license online?
Yes, if your license is not expired more than two years and you do not need to update your photo, address, or name. Go to the DDS website and follow the online renewal process. You will pay the renewal fee by credit card. Your new license will arrive by mail in five to seven business days.
What if I move to Georgia from another state?
You must get a Georgia license within 30 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Georgia, and your other required documents to a DDS office. You will take the written test and vision test, but you may not need to take the road test if your out-of-state license is valid. Ask the DDS staff when you arrive.
What happens if I fail the road test?
You can retake the road test as many times as you need. Schedule another appointment through the DDS website. There is no extra fee for retaking the test. Most people pass on their second or third try. Before you retake it, practice the skills the examiner said you needed to work on.
Do I need a learner's permit if I am over 18?
No. If you are 18 or older, you can go straight to the DDS office, take the written test and vision test, schedule a road test, and then take the road test. You do not need a learner's permit. You still must pass all three tests to receive your license.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. DDS offers the written test in Spanish and several other languages. When you schedule your appointment online, you can select your preferred language. Tell the DDS staff when you arrive which language you want to use.