What you need to do to get a Georgia driver's license

To get a Georgia driver's license, you visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person, pass a written test and a driving test, and pay a fee. You cannot do this online or by mail. The entire process usually takes a few weeks from start to finish, though the actual time at the office on test day is typically two to four hours.

Georgia issues a standard driver's license valid for eight years, or a Real ID-compliant license (also called a REAL ID driver's license) valid for eight years. The REAL ID version costs a few dollars more and meets federal requirements for flying domestically and entering federal buildings. Most people choose REAL ID because the price difference is small and it covers both purposes.

You can get a learner's permit first, which lets you practice driving with a licensed adult before you take the road test. This step is required if you are under 18, and optional if you are 18 or older.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DDS office in person with required documents, pass a written knowledge test, and pass a driving test to receive a Georgia driver's license.
  • A REAL ID-compliant license costs slightly more than a standard license but meets federal requirements for air travel and federal building access.
  • If you are under 18, you must first obtain a learner's permit and hold it for a set period before you can take the road test.
  • Bring original documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving; you can study using the Georgia DDS handbook available free online.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Bring an original document proving your identity, such as a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, or a military ID. Photocopies do not work. If your birth certificate is not certified (raised seal), bring it along with another identity document like a school ID or employee badge.

Bring proof of your Social Security number. An original Social Security card works, or a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return with your full SSN visible. Again, photocopies are not accepted.

Bring two documents proving you live in Georgia. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank statement, a government check, or a property tax bill. The documents must show your name and current Georgia address. A utility bill dated within the last 60 days is the most straightforward choice.

If you are explore for a REAL ID license, bring one additional document from the residency list above. So you would bring three residency documents total instead of two.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 40 questions and covers road signs, traffic laws, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is taken on a computer at the DDS office on the same day you submit your documents.

You can study for free using the Georgia DDS Driver's Manual, available as a PDF on the Georgia DDS website. The manual is about 80 pages and covers everything on the test. Many people read through it once or twice and take practice tests online before their office visit.

If you do not pass on your first try, you can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test, though you do pay the license fee when you pass.

The driving test and scheduling it

The driving test takes about 20 to 30 minutes. A DDS examiner sits in your vehicle while you drive on public roads and perform maneuvers like parallel parking, three-point turns, and lane changes. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working brakes, lights, wipers, and turn signals.

You schedule the driving test when you pass the written test. The DDS office will give you available dates and times. Wait times vary by location; some offices have openings within a week or two, while others may have a wait of several weeks. You can call ahead to ask about current wait times at your local office.

If you fail the driving test, you can retake it, but there is usually a wait before your next appointment. There is no additional fee to retake the test.

Learner's permit requirements if you are under 18

If you are under 18, you must get a learner's permit before you can take the road test. To get a learner's permit, you visit a DDS office, bring the same documents listed above, pass the written test, and pay a fee. You do not take a driving test for the permit.

After you receive your learner's permit, you must hold it for a minimum of one month before you can take the road test. During this time, you practice driving with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and sits in the front passenger seat. Some restrictions explore: you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m., and you cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free.

Once you have held the permit for the required time and feel ready, you return to the DDS office to schedule and take your driving test. If you pass, your learner's permit is exchanged for a driver's license.

Fees and what they cover

A standard Georgia driver's license costs one amount, and a REAL ID license costs a few dollars more. Fees change periodically, so check the Georgia DDS website for the current price before you visit. The fee covers the license itself and is paid when you pass the driving test.

A learner's permit has a separate fee, also listed on the DDS website. If you get a learner's permit first and then pass the driving test, you typically pay only the difference between the permit fee and the full license fee, not both fees in full.

Some DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. A few offices may accept only certain payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm.

Finding your local DDS office and what to expect

The Georgia DDS website has a tool to find the office nearest you by entering your city or zip code. Each office has its own hours and phone number. Call ahead if you have questions about documents or if you want to know current wait times for the driving test.

Arrive early on the day of your appointment. Bring all required documents in originals, not copies. The office will take your photo and fingerprints for your license. The entire visit, including the written test, usually takes two to four hours depending on how busy the office is.

If you are renewing a license rather than getting one for the first time, the process is different and faster. The DDS website explains renewal options, which include renewing by mail or online in some cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the written test online or at home?

No. You must visit a DDS office in person to take the written test. The test is administered on a computer at the office, and you cannot take it remotely or by mail.

What happens if I fail the driving test?

You can retake the driving test at no additional cost, but you must schedule another appointment. Wait times for the next available test vary by location. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test.

Do I need a Social Security number to get a Georgia driver's license?

Yes. You must provide your Social Security number and bring a document proving it, such as your Social Security card or a tax form. If you do not have a Social Security number, contact the DDS office to ask about alternatives.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. You must be present at the DDS office to have your photo taken and to receive your license. A family member or friend cannot pick it up on your behalf.

How long is a Georgia driver's license valid?

A standard Georgia driver's license is valid for eight years from the date it is issued. A REAL ID license is also valid for eight years. After that, you must renew it by visiting a DDS office or using an online or mail renewal option if you are may be able to access.