What the Georgia Department of Driver Services does
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is the state agency that issues driver's licenses, handles vehicle registration, and manages commercial driver's licenses. It is part of Georgia's Department of Revenue. If you need a new license, a replacement, a renewal, or answers about Georgia driving rules, DDS is the office you contact.
DDS operates a network of local driver services offices across Georgia, plus an online portal for certain transactions. The agency also handles suspensions, reinstatements, and records requests. Understanding which office handles your specific need and how to reach them will save you a trip or a phone call to the wrong department.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia's driver services offices are located in most counties, and you can find your nearest office and hours on the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov.
- You can renew your license online through the DDS portal if your license is not suspended and you meet other basic requirements, without visiting an office.
- Replacement licenses, new licenses, and commercial licenses require an in-person visit to a driver services office with required documents.
- The main DDS customer service line is 678-413-8400, and wait times are typically shorter early in the week and early in the day.
- If your license is suspended, you must contact DDS directly to understand the reason and the steps to reinstate it.
Finding your local driver services office
Georgia has driver services offices in most counties. The easiest way to find the one nearest you is to visit dds.georgia.gov and use the office locator tool. Enter your county or city, and the site will show you the address, phone number, and hours of operation for that location.
Office hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended hours on certain days or limited Saturday hours. Check the specific office's hours before you go, because many offices close for lunch or have reduced hours on certain days of the week.
If you cannot reach your local office by phone, you can call the main DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400. This line can answer general questions, direct you to the right office, or help you understand what documents you need to bring.
Renewing your license online or in person
If your Georgia driver's license is not suspended and you meet the renewal requirements, you can renew online through the DDS website without visiting an office. Online renewal is available if your license is not expired by more than two years, you have no medical restrictions that need updating, and you have not had certain violations or suspensions.
To renew online, go to dds.georgia.gov, log in or create an account, and follow the renewal steps. You will need your current license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. The new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
If you cannot renew online, you must visit a driver services office in person. Bring your current license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment. If your address has changed, bring a document showing your new address. The office will issue a temporary license on the spot and mail your permanent license within 7 to 10 business days.
Getting a new license or replacement license
A new license is issued when you move to Georgia from another state or turn 16. A replacement license is issued when yours is lost, stolen, or damaged. Both require an in-person visit to a driver services office.
For a new license, bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your number), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days), and proof of your legal name and date of birth (birth certificate, passport, or state ID). If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present.
For a replacement license, bring your current license if you have it, proof of residency, and payment. If your license was stolen, you may be asked to file a police report or sign a statement. The office will issue a temporary license and mail your permanent license within 7 to 10 business days.
Commercial driver's licenses and endorsements
A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required to operate certain large or hazardous vehicles. Georgia issues Class A, B, and C CDLs, and you can add endorsements for hazmat, passenger, or tanker transport. CDL testing and issuance happen only at specific DDS offices, not all locations.
To get a CDL, you must pass a written knowledge test and a driving skills test. You will need to bring your current Georgia license, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number. Some employers require a medical certificate; check with your employer or the DDS office before you explore.
Contact your local DDS office or call 678-413-8400 to find which office near you handles CDL testing and to schedule your tests. Testing slots fill up, so schedule as early as you can.
License suspension, revocation, and reinstatement
Your Georgia license can be suspended for unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, DUI convictions, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. A suspension is temporary; a revocation is permanent until you meet specific conditions.
If your license is suspended, you cannot legally drive. To find out why your license is suspended and what you must do to reinstate it, contact DDS at 678-413-8400 or visit your local office. The reason for suspension determines what you must do next — you may need to pay a fine, complete a defensive driving course, or satisfy a court order.
Once you have met the reinstatement requirements, you can pay the reinstatement fee (which varies by reason) and your license will be restored. Some reinstatements happen when ready; others take a few business days to process.
Getting records and documents from DDS
You can request a copy of your driving record from DDS. Your driving record shows your license status, traffic violations, suspensions, and accidents. You can order a record online through dds.georgia.gov, by mail, or in person at a driver services office.
Online orders are the fastest option. Go to dds.georgia.gov, select "Order Your Driving Record," and follow the steps. You will need your license number and a valid payment method. The record will be mailed to you within 5 to 7 business days, or you can pay extra for expedited delivery.
If you need other documents — such as proof that your license is valid, a duplicate registration, or a vehicle title — contact your local office or call 678-413-8400. Some documents can be ordered online; others require a visit or a phone call to confirm what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to bring to renew my license in person?
Bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 30 days), and payment. If your address has changed since your last license, bring a document showing your new address. If your name has changed, bring a document proving the change, such as a marriage certificate or court order.
How long does it take to get a new license after I visit the office?
The office will issue a temporary license on the spot that is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, ask the office whether expedited mailing is available for an additional fee.
Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than two years?
No. If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must explore for a new license in person at a driver services office. Bring proof of residency, proof of your legal name and date of birth, and proof of your Social Security number. You will also take a new photo and may need to retake the written test.
What happens if I move out of Georgia?
Your Georgia license remains valid until it expires, but you should get a license from your new state within the timeframe required by that state (usually 30 to 60 days). You do not need to notify Georgia DDS when you move, but if you want to update your address on file for mailing purposes, you can do so online or by visiting a driver services office.
How do I check if my license is suspended?
Call DDS at 678-413-8400 or visit dds.georgia.gov and log into your account. You can also visit your local driver services office and ask. Have your license number and Social Security number ready. The office or phone line can tell you the reason for the suspension and what you must do to reinstate your license.