The Dalton Driver Services Office Location and Hours

The Georgia Department of Driver Services office in Dalton is located at 1410 Cleveland Avenue, Dalton, GA 30720. This is the physical location where you can renew your driver's license, get a replacement card, take a written test, or complete a road test. The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on weekends and state holidays.

You do not need an appointment to visit, but wait times vary depending on the time of day and day of the week. Mornings and early afternoons tend to be less crowded than late afternoon. If you are taking a road test, you will need to schedule that in advance by calling the office directly at the number listed on the Georgia DDS website.

Bring your current ID and any documents the office requires for your specific transaction. If you are renewing, you will need your current license. If you are getting a replacement, bring proof of identity and proof of residency. The staff at the office can tell you exactly what you need before you hand over documents.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dalton Driver Services office is at 1410 Cleveland Avenue and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with no appointment needed for most transactions.
  • Road tests must be scheduled in advance by calling the office, not by walking in.
  • Bring your current driver's license for renewals, or proof of identity and residency for replacements or new licenses.
  • Morning and early afternoon visits typically have shorter wait times than late afternoon.
  • The office is closed on weekends and state holidays, so plan your visit for a weekday.

What You Can Do at the Dalton Office

The Dalton Driver Services office handles most common driver's license transactions. You can renew your license if it has expired or is about to expire, get a replacement if your card is lost or damaged, or change your address without getting a new photo. You can also take the written knowledge test and the road test if you are getting your first license or upgrading your license class.

Not all services are available at every location. If you need something unusual — such as a commercial driver's license endorsement or a medical variance — call ahead to confirm the Dalton office can handle it. The Georgia DDS website lists which services are available at which locations.

Documents to Bring for a License Renewal

For a standard renewal, bring your current Georgia driver's license. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you may need to retake the written test, so check your license expiration date before you go. You will also need to pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on how long your new license will be valid.

If you are renewing and want to update your address at the same time, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. You do not need a new photo for an address change unless you want one.

Documents to Bring for a Replacement License

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, bring one form of government-issued photo ID and one document proving your current address. A passport, military ID, or state ID card counts as photo ID. For address proof, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, insurance bill, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

You will get a new photo taken at the office, so plan for that. The replacement fee is separate from the renewal fee and is typically lower. If your license was stolen, you may want to report it to the police first, though this is not required to get a replacement.

Taking a Written Test or Road Test

If you are taking the written knowledge test for a new license or a license class upgrade, you can walk in during office hours. The test is computer-based and takes about 30 minutes. You will need to bring proof of identity and proof of residency, just as you would for any other transaction. Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized.

Road tests must be scheduled ahead of time. Call the Dalton office to book a test date and time. You will need to bring your current learner's permit, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof that your vehicle is insured and registered. The vehicle you use for the test must be in safe working condition — the examiner will check the brakes, lights, and windshield wipers before you start.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver's license fees in Georgia depend on the type of transaction and the length of validity you choose. A standard renewal is less expensive than a replacement, and a four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. The Dalton office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Call ahead or check the Georgia DDS website for the exact current fee for your transaction.

If you cannot afford the fee, Georgia does not offer a fee waiver program for driver's licenses. Some community organizations or legal aid offices may help in specific situations, but this is rare. Plan to have the full fee available when you visit.

What to Do If the Office Is Closed

If you need to renew your license and the Dalton office is closed, you have a few options. You can visit a different Georgia Driver Services office — there are locations in nearby cities like Calhoun and Marietta. You can also renew online if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements; the Georgia DDS website has a tool to check if you are may be able to access for online renewal.

If you need a road test or a replacement license, you cannot use online renewal and will need to visit an office in person. Plan your visit for a day when the Dalton office is open, or travel to another location. Road test appointments can sometimes be scheduled weeks in advance, so do not wait until the last minute if you have a important date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the office?

You may be able to renew online through the Georgia DDS website if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements. The website has a tool to check your may be able to access. Online renewal is faster and does not require a visit to the office, but not everyone qualifies. If you cannot renew online, you will need to visit the Dalton office in person.

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

You receive a temporary paper license at the office on the day you explore. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Use the temporary license as proof of identity until the permanent card arrives. If you do not receive it within two weeks, call the office to check on the status.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card to the office?

You do not need the physical card, but you will need to provide your Social Security number. Have it memorized or written down. If you do not know your number, you can bring your Social Security card to prove it, but the office will accept the number alone.

What if I fail my road test?

You can schedule another road test at the Dalton office. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay the test fee again. Call the office to book your next test date. Many people pass on their second or third attempt, so do not be discouraged.

Can I get a REAL ID at the Dalton office?

Yes, the Dalton office issues REAL ID-compliant driver's licenses. You will need to bring additional documents — a birth certificate or passport, proof of Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. REAL ID licenses cost more than standard licenses and are required for federal air travel as of May 2025. Ask the staff which documents you need when you arrive.