Where to go for your driver's license in Savannah

In Savannah, you get your driver's license at the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. The main location is at 7400 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31406. This is the office that handles new licenses, renewals, and replacements for Chatham County residents.

You can also visit the DDS office at 2 Bull Street, Savannah, GA 31401, which is downtown and may have shorter wait times depending on the day. Both offices handle the same services, so you can choose whichever location works better for your schedule.

Before you go, check the DDS website or call ahead to confirm hours, because office hours can change seasonally. The phone number for the Abercorn Street location is (912) 966-6638.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia DDS offices in Savannah are at 7400 Abercorn Street and 2 Bull Street downtown, and both handle new licenses, renewals, and replacements.
  • You need a valid form of ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or an ITIN to get a license.
  • A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 and is valid for eight years; a REAL ID costs $47 and is required for federal buildings and domestic flights after May 2025.
  • Bring your current license if you are renewing, or a birth certificate if you are getting your first license.
  • Wait times are usually shorter on weekday mornings and longer on Friday afternoons, so plan accordingly.

What documents you need to bring

Georgia requires you to bring several documents in person. You need one form of valid ID — this can be a passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. You also need proof that you live in Georgia, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days.

You must provide your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you do not have either, you will need to bring additional documents — ask the DDS office which ones when you call ahead.

If you are renewing, bring your current Georgia license. If you are getting your first license or replacing a lost one, bring your birth certificate or certified copy. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the marriage certificate or court document.

The cost and type of license you choose

A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 and is valid for eight years. A REAL ID costs $47 and is also valid for eight years. The difference is that a REAL ID meets federal security standards and is required to enter federal buildings, military bases, and to board domestic flights. Starting May 7, 2025, a standard license will no longer work for domestic air travel.

If you travel by air or visit federal offices, a REAL ID is worth the extra $15. If you rarely fly and do not enter federal buildings, a standard license is sufficient for driving and most everyday uses.

Georgia also offers a REAL ID Enhanced Driver's License for $57, which works for land and sea border crossings to Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean without a passport. This is only useful if you cross borders frequently by car or boat.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in and wait for your number to be called. A DDS staff member will review your documents, ask you to verify your address and other information, and take your photograph. You will then take a vision test and a written test about Georgia traffic laws.

The written test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You can retake it the same day if you fail. After you pass, you will pay the fee and receive your temporary license on paper. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

If you are renewing and your vision and address have not changed, you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting the office. Check the DDS website to see if you are may be able to access for mail or online renewal.

How long the process takes and when to go

The entire visit usually takes 30 minutes to two hours, depending on how busy the office is. Wait times are shortest on weekday mornings, especially Tuesday through Thursday between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Friday afternoons and the first week of the month are the busiest times.

Your temporary license is valid when ready, so you can drive the same day. Your permanent card arrives by mail, and you should receive it within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, call the DDS office to report it.

If you fail the written test or vision test

If you fail the vision test, you will not be issued a license that day. You will need to see an eye doctor, get a corrective lens prescription if needed, and return to the DDS office with proof of your vision correction. Bring your glasses or contacts and your prescription.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at the same visit, or you can leave and come back another day. There is no fee to retake the test. You have up to three attempts per visit. If you fail all three, you must wait one business day before trying again.

Renewing your license by mail or online

If your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or suspensions, you may renew by mail without visiting the office. You will need to send your current license, a check or money order for the renewal fee, and a completed process form to the DDS. The form is available on the Georgia DDS website.

Some renewals can also be done online through the DDS website if you meet certain requirements — your license must not be expired, and you must have a valid email address on file. Check the website to see if you are may be able to access for online renewal, as not all drivers can use this method.

Mail renewal takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time the DDS receives your process. Online renewal is faster and you receive your temporary license when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. You can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. If you have neither, bring additional documents such as a passport, visa, or work authorization card. Call the DDS office at (912) 966-6638 to ask which documents they will accept in your situation.

What if my license is suspended or revoked?

You cannot get a new license while a suspension or revocation is active. You must contact the Georgia DDS or the court that issued the suspension to find out how to restore your driving privileges. This may require paying a fee, completing a course, or waiting out a suspension period.

How do I replace a lost or stolen license?

Visit the DDS office with your ID and proof of residency, just as you would for a renewal. Tell the staff member your license was lost or stolen. You will pay the replacement fee, take a new photo, and receive a temporary license. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Do I need an appointment to visit the DDS office?

No appointment is required. You can walk in during business hours and check in at the front desk. However, you can schedule an appointment online through the Georgia DDS website to reduce your wait time. Appointments are not always available, but it is worth checking.

What if I moved to Savannah from another state?

You must get a Georgia license within 30 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license as your form of ID, along with proof of your new Georgia address. You will take the written test and vision test, just as a new driver would. Your out-of-state license will not be accepted for driving after the 30-day period.