Where Georgia driver's license offices are located

Georgia's driver's license offices are run by the Department of Driver Services (DDS), which operates locations across the state. You can find the office nearest you by visiting the DDS website and using their office locator tool, or by calling 678-413-8400. Most counties have at least one office, and larger cities have multiple locations.

Each office handles the same services — license renewals, replacements, address changes, and new license applications — so you can visit whichever location is most convenient. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays.

Key Takeaways

  • The Department of Driver Services runs all Georgia driver's license offices, and you can find your nearest one using their online locator or by calling 678-413-8400.
  • You will need to bring specific documents depending on what you are doing — a renewal requires different paperwork than a new license process.
  • Most offices do not take appointments, so you arrive and take a number; some locations now offer online scheduling through the DDS website.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax identification number to any visit.

What documents to bring to a Georgia DDS office

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a license renewal, bring your current license, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number. You do not need to bring physical documents for your Social Security number — you can provide it verbally.

For a new license process, the requirements are more extensive. Bring one document proving your identity (a passport, birth certificate, or military ID), one document proving your residency, proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and your current out-of-state license if you have one. If you were born outside the United States, bring your immigration documents as well.

For an address change or replacement, bring your current license and proof of your new address. If your license was lost or stolen, you may need to fill out an additional form at the office.

How to schedule or prepare for your visit

Most Georgia DDS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis — you arrive, take a number from the kiosk, and wait for your turn. However, some locations now offer online scheduling through the DDS website. Check your local office's page to see if scheduling is available in your area; if it is, you can reserve a time slot and reduce your wait.

Before you go, make a checklist of the documents you need based on what you are doing. Take photos or copies of your documents if you are worried about losing originals. Bring your phone or a book — wait times can range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the office and time of day.

Office hours and what to expect during your visit

Most Georgia DDS offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some locations have different hours. A few offices open on Saturday mornings. Check the DDS website for your specific office's hours before you go, because hours vary by location.

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk or use a kiosk to take a number. You will then wait until your number is called. At the window, a staff member will review your documents, ask you questions about your process, and take your photo and signature. The entire process usually takes 10 to 20 minutes once you reach the window. You will pay the fee at that time — renewal fees, new license fees, and replacement fees all differ.

Getting your license after your visit

Georgia issues licenses on the spot in most cases. You will receive a temporary paper license to use when ready, and your permanent plastic license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Keep the temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives.

If there is a problem with your process — missing documents, unclear photos, or information that does not match — the office will tell you what you need to fix. You may need to return to the office or submit additional documents by mail.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

Georgia offers online renewal for some drivers. If your license is not expired and you have not had a name change, address change, or vision correction change, you may be able to renew online through the DDS website. You will still need to provide a new photo, which you can take with your phone or computer camera.

If you cannot renew online and cannot visit an office, you can mail in certain applications. The DDS website lists which forms can be mailed and what to include. Mail-in processing takes longer — usually 4 to 6 weeks — so this option is best only if visiting an office is truly not possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit a Georgia DDS office?

Most offices do not require appointments and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some locations now offer online scheduling. Check your local office's page on the DDS website to see if you can reserve a time slot.

What is the fee for a Georgia driver's license?

Fees vary depending on what you are doing — renewals, new licenses, and replacements each have different costs. The DDS website lists current fees. You pay at the office when you complete your transaction.

Can I renew my license online instead of visiting an office?

You may be able to renew online if your license is not expired and you have not had a name change, address change, or vision correction change. You will still need to provide a new photo. Check the DDS website to see if you are may be able to access for online renewal.

How long does it take to get my permanent license after my visit?

You receive a temporary paper license to use when ready, and your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Keep the temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives.

What if I lost my documents and cannot find them before my visit?

Contact the DDS office before you go and explain your situation. They can tell you what alternatives they accept — for example, some offices may accept a notarized statement in place of a missing birth certificate. Calling ahead saves you a wasted trip.