How to Get and Renew Your Georgia Driver License

What you need to get a Georgia driver license

A Georgia driver license is issued by the Department of Driver Services (DDS), a division of the Georgia Department of Revenue. To get one, you will need to visit a DDS office in person, bring specific documents, pass a vision test, and pass a written knowledge test and a driving test.

The documents you bring depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an expired one, or moving to Georgia from another state. Georgia requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Georgia residency. A passport or birth certificate works for identity. A Social Security card or W-2 form works for your Social Security number. For residency, you can use a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.

If you are under 18, you will also need a completed form signed by a parent or guardian, and you must follow Georgia's graduated licensing system, which has two stages before you get an unrestricted license.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a DDS office in person with documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency.
Georgia charges a fee for a driver license, and the amount depends on the type of license and how long it is valid for.
You will take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, a vision test, and a driving test before you receive your license.
If your license is expired, you can renew it online, by mail, or in person, depending on how long it has been expired and whether you need a new photo.

The written test and what it covers

The written knowledge test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take a practice test on the DDS website before you go to the office. The test has multiple choice questions, and you must answer most of them correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another day.

Georgia also offers the written test in languages other than English. When you schedule your appointment or arrive at the office, let DDS know which language you need. The test is available in Spanish and several other languages.

The driving test and how it is scored

The driving test takes place on public roads near the DDS office. An examiner sits in the car with you and watches how you handle basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The examiner scores you on how safely and smoothly you perform these tasks.

You must bring your own vehicle for the test, and it must be in safe working condition with valid registration and insurance. The examiner will check the brakes, lights, wipers, and mirrors before you start. If the vehicle is not safe, you cannot take the test that day.

Renewing your Georgia driver license

If your license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you may renew it without taking the tests again. You can renew online through the DDS website if you do not need a new photo and your address has not changed. Online renewal is the fastest option and costs less than renewing in person.

If your license expired more than two years ago, or if you need a new photo, you must renew in person at a DDS office. You will not have to retake the written and driving tests, but you will need to pass a vision test and bring your expired license plus proof of residency.

You can also renew by mail if your license is still valid. DDS will send you a renewal form if you request one. Mail renewal takes longer than online or in-person renewal.

Real ID and what it means for your Georgia license

A Real ID is a federal standard for driver licenses and identification cards. A Georgia Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for boarding domestic flights and entering federal buildings. If you do not have a Real ID license, you will need a passport or other federal ID to board a plane.

When you get or renew your Georgia license, you can choose whether to get a Real ID or a standard license. Both cost the same. To get a Real ID, you must bring the same documents as for a standard license, plus original documents or certified copies proving your identity and residency. The DDS website lists which documents count as acceptable proof.

Finding a DDS office and scheduling an appointment

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the DDS website by entering your county or city. Many offices now require you to schedule an appointment online before you come in. Walk-ins are accepted at some offices, but wait times can be long.

To schedule an appointment, go to the DDS website and select the office you want to visit. You will choose a date and time, and you will receive a confirmation. Bring that confirmation with you when you go. If you cannot make your appointment, cancel it online so someone else can use that time slot.

Fees and how long your license lasts

Georgia driver license fees vary based on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard license for someone 21 and older is valid for eight years. A Real ID license costs a few dollars more than a standard license. Licenses for people under 21 are valid for shorter periods and cost less. DDS publishes the current fee schedule on its website.

You can pay by cash, check, or card at the DDS office. Some offices accept online payment if you renew online. Keep your receipt until your license arrives in the mail, which usually takes one to two weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with an expired Georgia license?

No. Driving with an expired license is against the law in Georgia. If your license is expiring soon, renew it online or schedule an in-person appointment before it expires. If it has already expired, you cannot legally drive until you renew it.

What if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you will pay a fee each time you take it. Many people pass on their second or third try. You can practice with a licensed driver before you come back.

Do I need a Georgia license if I just moved here?

Georgia law requires you to get a Georgia license within 30 days of moving to the state if you plan to drive. You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Georgia one at a DDS office. You will not have to retake the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is still valid.

What happens if I lose my license before it expires?

Go to a DDS office and ask for a replacement. Bring your Social Security card or other proof of your Social Security number and proof of Georgia residency. A replacement license costs less than a new license and arrives in one to two weeks.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not change when your next renewal is due — your new license will be valid for the full term from the date you renew it.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.