The Savannah Driver's License Office Locations

Savannah has two Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) offices where you can renew, replace, or obtain a driver's license. The main office is located at 7400 Abercorn Street, and a second location operates at 2 Fahm Street downtown. Both offices handle the same services, though wait times and hours vary between them. You do not need an appointment at either location — you arrive, take a number, and wait your turn.

The Abercorn Street office typically has longer hours and serves more customers daily. The Fahm Street location is smaller and often has shorter waits, particularly on weekday mornings. Neither office closes for lunch, so you can visit anytime during posted hours. Check the Georgia DDS website or call ahead to confirm current hours, as they occasionally shift with staffing.

Key Takeaways

  • Savannah's two DDS offices are at 7400 Abercorn Street and 2 Fahm Street; both handle all driver's license transactions without requiring an appointment.
  • You will need a valid form of identification, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or tax ID to complete most transactions.
  • Renewal by mail is an option if your license is not suspended and you meet Georgia's requirements, which saves a trip to the office.
  • Processing times vary: a standard license takes one to two weeks by mail, while in-person transactions are completed the same day.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted for most transactions.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining a license for the first time. For a renewal, bring your current 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 license is expired by more than five years, you may need additional identity documents.

For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged license), bring a valid form of identification such as a passport or state ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you are obtaining a license for the first time, the requirements are more extensive: you will need a birth certificate or passport, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof of Georgia residency for at least 30 days (a utility bill or lease works). Bring originals or certified copies — the office will not accept photocopies.

Renewal by Mail as an Alternative

If your license is valid and not suspended, you may renew by mail instead of visiting an office. You are may be able to access if your license is not expired or expired by fewer than five years, you have no medical restrictions, and you have not had certain violations. Mail renewal takes one to two weeks and costs less than in-person renewal.

To renew by mail, contact the Georgia DDS or visit their website to request a renewal form. Complete the form, include a new photo (if required), and mail it with your current license and the renewal fee to the address provided. You will receive your new license by mail. This option works well if your schedule does not allow a trip to Savannah or if you live outside the city.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver's license fees in Georgia vary by license type and duration. A standard four-year license costs one amount, while an eight-year license costs more. Commercial licenses and endorsements carry different fees. The Georgia DDS website lists current fees, which change periodically.

Both Savannah offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices also accept checks, though calling ahead to confirm is wise. If you are renewing by mail, include a check or money order with your process — credit cards are not accepted for mail renewals. Bring exact change or a card to avoid delays.

Wait Times and Best Times to Visit

Wait times at both offices fluctuate based on the day and time. Weekday mornings, particularly Tuesday through Thursday between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., typically have shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays. Mondays are often busy as people return from the weekend. The Fahm Street downtown location usually has shorter waits than Abercorn Street, especially mid-morning on weekdays.

Avoid visiting on the first and last days of the month, when renewal important date drive higher traffic. If you have a flexible schedule, a mid-week morning visit will get you through faster. The offices do not take appointments, so arriving early does not may provide a short wait — it straightforward reduces the likelihood of a very long one.

What Happens During Your Visit

When you arrive, take a number from the dispenser and wait for your turn. A staff member will call your number and direct you to a window. Bring all required documents and be prepared to answer questions about your address, driving history, and any medical conditions. You will have your photo taken at the window unless you are doing a mail renewal.

The staff member will verify your documents, process your transaction, and collect the fee. If everything is in order, you will receive your new license on the spot for in-person transactions. If documents are missing or incomplete, you will be told what you need to bring back. Keep your receipt — it serves as a temporary license until your permanent one arrives by mail if you ordered an eight-year license or if processing takes longer than expected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license online?

Georgia does not offer online renewal for driver's licenses. You must renew in person at a DDS office or by mail if you meet the may be able to access requirements. The mail option is the closest alternative to online renewal and takes one to two weeks.

What if I do not have a birth certificate?

If you are obtaining a license for the first time and do not have a birth certificate, you can use a passport, passport card, or other approved identity document. Contact the Savannah DDS office before your visit to confirm which documents they will accept in your specific situation.

Do I need an appointment?

No. Both Savannah DDS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You arrive, take a number, and wait. There are no appointments available, though you can call ahead to ask about current wait times before deciding when to visit.

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

If you renew in person and receive your license at the window, you have it when ready. If you order an eight-year license or if processing takes longer, your license will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. Your receipt serves as a temporary license during this time.

What if my address has changed?

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days) along with your current license. The staff member will update your address during your visit, and your new license will reflect the correct address.