The Georgia Department of Driver Services handles all driver licenses, ID cards, and driving records in the state
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is the state agency that issues driver licenses, ID cards, and maintains driving records. It is part of the Georgia Department of Revenue. If you need a new license, a renewal, a replacement card, or a copy of your driving record, you work with DDS — not a county office or a third party.
DDS operates driver license offices across Georgia. Each office handles in-person transactions like testing, photo capture, and document verification. You cannot complete most driver license transactions by mail or phone; you must visit an office in person. The agency also maintains an online portal where you can check some information and renew certain licenses without visiting an office, depending on your situation.
Understanding which office to visit, what documents to bring, and whether you can handle your transaction online saves time and prevents wasted trips.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Department of Driver Services is a state agency under the Department of Revenue, and it is the only place to get a Georgia driver license or state ID card.
- Most transactions require an in-person visit to a DDS office, though some renewals and record requests can be done online or by mail.
- You can find your nearest office, check wait times, and schedule an appointment through the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov.
- Bring original or certified documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency — the DDS website lists exactly what counts for each transaction type.
- DDS offices have varying hours and may close for state holidays, so check the specific office location before you go.
Finding a DDS office location and checking wait times
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. The main DDS website at dds.georgia.gov includes a location finder tool where you can enter your city or county and see all nearby offices, their hours, and current wait times. Wait times vary widely — some offices have short waits during off-peak hours, while busy urban locations may have waits of an hour or more during lunch and late afternoon.
Many DDS offices now allow you to schedule an appointment online through the same website. Scheduling an appointment does not may provide you will be seen at that exact time, but it typically reduces your wait compared to walk-ins. If your local office offers appointments, you can reserve a time slot several days or weeks in advance.
Some transactions — like a standard license renewal for someone with no violations or restrictions — may be available through the online portal without a visit. Check the DDS website to see whether your specific transaction can be handled that way before you plan a trip.
Documents you need for a new or replacement license
DDS requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Georgia residency for a new license or ID card. The exact documents that count vary by category, and DDS publishes a detailed list on its website showing which documents fall into each category.
For identity, DDS accepts a valid passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license. For Social Security number, you can bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a tax return. For Georgia residency, you can bring a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies usually do not work.
If you do not have one of the standard documents, DDS has a process for that too. The website lists alternative documents and explains how to proceed if your situation is unusual. Calling your local office before you visit can save time if your documents are nonstandard.
Renewing your license online or by mail
If your Georgia driver license is still valid and you have no medical restrictions or license suspensions, you may be able to renew online through the DDS portal without visiting an office. Online renewal is available for standard licenses and costs less than an in-person renewal. You will need your current license number and a valid payment method.
If you do not meet the requirements for online renewal, you can renew by mail. DDS will send you a renewal form if you request one. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — typically two to three weeks — so plan ahead if your license is close to expiring.
If your license has been suspended, revoked, or if you have medical restrictions, you must renew in person at a DDS office. The same applies if you need to change your name, address, or other information on your license.
Getting a copy of your driving record
Your driving record shows your license status, any violations, accidents, and suspensions. You can order a copy online through the DDS website, by mail, or in person at a DDS office. Online orders are the fastest — you can read your record when ready or have it mailed to you. Mail orders take one to two weeks.
DDS offers both a certified copy (which has an official seal and is accepted by courts and employers) and an uncertified copy (which is cheaper and works for personal reference). Specify which type you need when you order. You will need your driver license number or Social Security number to place an order.
If you need your record urgently, ordering online and downloading it when ready is your fastest option. If you need a certified copy mailed to a third party (like an insurance company or court), you can request that through the online portal or by calling your local DDS office.
Contacting DDS by phone or email
DDS does not have a single statewide phone number for general questions. Instead, you call the specific DDS office you plan to visit or the office nearest you. The DDS website has a directory with phone numbers for each county office. Calling ahead can answer questions about which documents you need, whether your transaction can be done online, and current wait times.
DDS does not offer email support for most transactions, but the website has a contact form for specific questions. Response times vary. For urgent issues — like a suspended license or a needed record for court — calling your local office is faster than email.
If you have questions about a specific transaction before you visit, the DDS website has detailed guides for each type of transaction. Reading the relevant guide before you call or visit often answers your question without needing to wait on hold.
What to expect during your visit
When you arrive at a DDS office, you will check in and receive a number or confirmation. You will wait until your number is called. A DDS employee will review your documents, verify your information, and take your photo. For a new license or a license test, you may also take a written test or vision test at that visit.
The entire process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is and whether your documents are in order. If your documents are missing or incorrect, the DDS employee will tell you what you need to bring back. You cannot complete the transaction that day if documents are missing.
Your new license or ID card will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You will receive a temporary paper license at the office that you can use while you wait for the permanent card to arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Georgia license if it has already expired?
Yes. An expired license can still be renewed, but you must do it in person at a DDS office. You cannot renew an expired license online or by mail. Bring your expired license and the same documents you would bring for a standard renewal.
What if I lost my license and need a replacement?
Visit a DDS office in person with proof of identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency. You do not need the original license to get a replacement. A DDS employee will issue you a temporary license on the spot and mail your permanent replacement within 7 to 10 business days.
How do I check if my license is suspended or revoked?
You can check your license status through the DDS website portal using your driver license number or Social Security number. You can also call your local DDS office or visit in person. If your license is suspended, the DDS website will explain the reason and what you need to do to restore it.
Can I change my address without getting a new license?
Yes. You can update your address online through the DDS portal if your license is still valid and you have no suspensions. If you cannot update online, you can visit a DDS office in person. Address changes are usually processed quickly and do not require a new photo or test.
What if I need my driving record for a court case or insurance claim?
Order a certified copy of your driving record through the DDS website, by mail, or in person. A certified copy has an official seal and is accepted by courts and insurance companies. Online orders can be downloaded when ready; mail orders take one to two weeks. Specify that you need a certified copy when you order.