Where the Covington Driver's License Office Is Located

The Georgia Department of Driver Services office in Covington is at 8155 Dogwood Drive, Covington, GA 30014. This is the main location where you can renew your license, get a replacement, take a written test, or handle most other driver's license transactions in Newton County.

The office sits in a commercial area off Highway 278. If you are using GPS or a map app, enter the full address above rather than just "Covington driver's license office," since the building is not when ready visible from the main road. Parking is available in the lot directly in front of the building.

Key Takeaways

  • The Covington driver's license office is located at 8155 Dogwood Drive and handles renewals, replacements, tests, and most license transactions.
  • Hours are typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., but you should call ahead or check the Georgia DDS website because hours change seasonally and for holidays.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency, and the specific documents required for your transaction type before you go.
  • The office does not take appointments, so arrive early in the day to avoid long waits, especially on Thursdays and Fridays.
  • If you need a road test, you must schedule that separately through the Georgia DDS website or by phone.

Hours of Operation and When to Go

The Covington office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed on weekends and state holidays. However, hours can shift seasonally and the office may close early or stay open late on certain days, so call 678-413-8400 before you make the trip to confirm the current schedule.

Mornings between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. typically have shorter waits than afternoons. Thursdays and Fridays are the busiest days. If you have flexibility, Tuesday or Wednesday morning is usually your fastest option. The office closes for lunch from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., so plan accordingly.

What Documents to Bring

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a license renewal, bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. If your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

For a replacement license (if yours is lost, stolen, or damaged), bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For a new license (if you are getting one for the first time), bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.

For a road test, bring your current permit, proof of residency, and proof of insurance. You cannot take the road test at the Covington office itself — you must schedule it at a separate testing location, which the office staff can direct you to when you arrive.

How to Schedule a Road Test

Road tests are not handled at the Covington office. Instead, you must schedule through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website at dds.georgia.gov or by calling the state DDS line. The Covington office staff can provide you with the phone number and website information, but they cannot book the test for you on the spot.

You will need your learner's permit number and a valid email address to schedule online. Tests are typically available within two to four weeks, depending on demand. Bring your permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that is registered and inspected when you show up for the test.

What to Expect When You Arrive

When you walk in, you will see a waiting area with numbered tickets. Take a ticket from the dispenser near the entrance — do not assume you can walk straight to a window. The digital display will show which number is being served and which window to go to. Wait until your number is called.

The staff member will review your documents, ask you questions to verify your identity, and may take a new photo if you are renewing or replacing your license. If you are taking a written test, you will be directed to a testing station in the office. The entire process usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the office is and what you are doing.

Fees and Payment Methods

License renewal costs vary depending on how long you want the license to be valid — typically $32 for an eight-year license or $20 for a five-year license. A replacement license costs $20. A new license costs $32. These prices can change, so ask the staff member when you arrive or call ahead to confirm the current fee for your specific transaction.

The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. They do not accept checks. If you are paying by card, bring the card with you — you cannot pay over the phone or online for in-person transactions at this office.

If You Cannot Visit in Person

Some transactions can be handled by mail or online through the Georgia DDS website. License renewals for people over 65 or those with certain medical conditions may be done by mail. You can also renew online if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements — check the Georgia DDS website to see if you are may be able to access.

If you need to replace a lost or stolen license and cannot visit the office, call the state DDS line to ask about mail-in options. Not all transactions are available by mail, so confirm before you send documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Covington office?

No. The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You take a ticket when you arrive and wait for your number to be called. Arriving early in the day or on a Tuesday or Wednesday morning will reduce your wait time.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

You must have proof of residency dated within the last 60 days. If you do not have a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement, you can use other documents like a bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail. Call the office at 678-413-8400 to ask if a specific document will work before you visit.

Can I renew my license if it is already expired?

Yes, you can renew an expired license at the office. However, if your license has been expired for more than a certain period, you may need to take a written test or road test again. Call the office to ask whether you will need to test based on how long your license has been expired.

How long does it take to get a replacement license after I explore?

If you explore in person at the office, you will receive a temporary paper license that day. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving when ready.

What if the office is closed when I need to go?

Check the Georgia DDS website or call 678-413-8400 to find other driver's license offices in nearby counties. Offices in Madison, Conyers, or other Newton County locations may have different hours or shorter waits. You can visit any Georgia DDS office to handle most transactions — you are not limited to Covington.