Georgia driver license fees depend on the type of license and how long you want it to last

A standard Georgia driver license costs $32 for an eight-year license if you are 21 or older. If you are under 21, the cost is also $32, but the license expires when you turn 21. A four-year license costs $16. These prices cover the license itself; additional services like replacement cards or address changes have separate fees.

Georgia charges different amounts for different license types. A commercial driver license (CDL) costs $35 for eight years. An ID card that is not a driver license costs $20 for eight years. If you need to renew by mail instead of in person, the fee is the same, but you may pay an additional processing fee depending on the method you use.

Payment happens at the time you explore or renew. You can pay in person at a Georgia Department of Driver Services office with cash, check, debit card, or credit card. If you renew online through the Georgia DDS website, you pay by credit or debit card. Mail renewals require a check or money order.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard Georgia driver license for adults costs $32 for eight years or $16 for four years.
  • Commercial driver licenses cost $35 for eight years, and ID cards cost $20 for eight years.
  • You pay the fee when you explore or renew, either in person, online, or by mail depending on your renewal method.
  • Georgia accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at in-person locations, but online and mail renewals have payment method limits.

When you pay: renewal versus replacement

If your license is expiring and you renew it, you pay the standard renewal fee. If your license is still valid but you need a replacement because it is lost, stolen, or damaged, you pay a replacement fee of $20. A replacement does not extend your expiration date — it keeps the same expiration as your original license.

Address changes do not cost extra if you do them in person at a DDS office. If you change your address online through the Georgia DDS website, there is no fee. However, if you need a new physical card printed because of an address change, some offices may charge a small fee for the card itself, though this varies by location.

Where to pay and what payment methods work

You can renew or explore for a license at any Georgia Department of Driver Services office. These offices accept cash, personal checks, debit cards, and credit cards. If you are paying in person, bring your payment method with you along with your required documents.

Online renewals through the Georgia DDS website accept debit cards and credit cards only. Mail-in renewals require a check or money order made out to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Do not send cash by mail. If you are mailing your renewal, include your payment with your process materials and allow extra time for processing.

Additional fees you might encounter

A duplicate license (an extra copy of your current valid license) costs $20. If you need to reinstate a suspended or revoked license, Georgia charges a reinstatement fee that varies based on the reason for suspension. You can find the specific reinstatement fee by contacting your local DDS office or checking the Georgia DDS website.

If you need a name change on your license, you do not pay an extra fee — the renewal or replacement fee covers it. However, you must bring proof of the name change, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Some services like obtaining a learner permit or taking a road test have their own separate fees that are not included in the license cost.

How to find your nearest DDS office and hours

Georgia has Department of Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Georgia DDS website by entering your county or city. Many offices operate Monday through Friday during standard business hours, but some have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Hours vary by location, so check before you go.

Some offices are busier than others, and wait times can be long during peak hours. Calling ahead or checking online for current wait times can help you plan when to visit. If you are renewing by mail or online, you do not need to visit an office at all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I pay for my Georgia driver license with a credit card?

Yes, if you are renewing or explore in person at a DDS office or online through the Georgia DDS website. Mail-in renewals do not accept credit cards — you must send a check or money order instead.

What if I lose my license before it expires?

You pay a $20 replacement fee to get a new card. The new license will have the same expiration date as your original license, so you are not paying to extend it — only to replace the physical card.

Do I have to pay if I just change my address?

No. Address changes done in person at a DDS office or online through the Georgia DDS website are free. You only pay if you need a new physical card printed, which some offices charge a small fee for.

Is there a fee to renew my license online?

No, the online renewal fee is the same as renewing in person: $32 for eight years or $16 for four years. You pay only the license fee, not an extra processing charge.