What you need to do to transfer your license to Georgia

To transfer your driver license to Georgia, you visit your local Department of Driver Services office in person, bring your current out-of-state license and proof of residency, pass a vision test, and pay a fee. Georgia does not require you to take a written test or driving test if your out-of-state license is valid — the state honors licenses from other U.S. states. The whole process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, and you walk out with a temporary license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is mailed to you.

You cannot transfer your license by mail or online. Georgia requires you to appear in person at a DDS office. If you have moved to Georgia and your out-of-state license has expired, or if you have certain violations on your record, the process may take longer or require additional steps — but the basic path is the same.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services office in person with your current out-of-state license and proof you live in Georgia.
  • Georgia accepts valid licenses from other U.S. states without requiring a written or driving test.
  • You will pay a fee (the amount depends on how long you want your license to be valid) and pass a vision screening.
  • You receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your out-of-state license is expired or suspended, contact DDS before you visit to confirm what documents you need.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Bring your current out-of-state driver license, even if it is expired. You also need one document that proves your Georgia residency — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your name and current Georgia address, dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill or credit card statement does not count as proof of residency in Georgia.

If your name has changed since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a document showing the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or birth certificate. Bring your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number on it — a W-2, tax return, or bank statement works.

Bring your current address in Georgia. If you do not have a mailing address yet (for example, if you just moved and are staying with someone temporarily), you can use that person's address as your mailing address, but you still need a document proving you live there.

Where to go and how to find your local office

Georgia has Department of Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Georgia DDS website by entering your county or city. Some offices are busier than others — offices in Atlanta and other large cities often have longer wait times. If you live in a rural area, your county office may have shorter lines.

Many DDS offices now use an online appointment system. You can reserve a time slot on the Georgia DDS website before you go, which usually cuts your wait time significantly. Walk-ins are accepted, but you may wait 1 to 2 hours during peak times. Peak times are typically mid-morning and mid-afternoon on weekdays, and Saturday mornings.

The vision test and what happens during your visit

At the DDS office, you will take a vision screening. This is not a full eye exam — it is a quick test to make sure you can see well enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you and wear them during the test. If you fail the vision screening, you will not be able to get your Georgia license that day, and you will need to see an eye doctor and return with documentation of your vision correction.

The staff will take your photograph and fingerprints, verify your documents, and collect your fee. The fee for a Georgia driver license depends on how long you want it to be valid: a 4-year license costs less than an 8-year license. You can choose which length you prefer. Once you pay, you receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days, and your permanent plastic card is mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days.

Fees and how long your new license lasts

Georgia driver license fees vary based on the length of validity you choose. A 4-year license is less expensive than an 8-year license. You can select which option you prefer when you pay. The DDS website lists current fees, which change occasionally. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card — most offices accept all three, but call ahead to confirm your local office's payment methods.

Your new Georgia license will expire on your birthday in either 4 or 8 years, depending on which you chose. If you are over 65, Georgia offers a reduced-fee license option with a shorter validity period. Ask the DDS staff about this when you visit if you think you may may have access to.

What to do if your out-of-state license is expired or suspended

If your out-of-state license expired less than 2 years ago, Georgia will usually still transfer it without requiring a test. Bring the expired license and all other documents as normal. However, if your license has been suspended or revoked, or if you have unpaid traffic violations or a DUI on your record, the transfer process is more complicated and may be denied.

Before you visit a DDS office, call the Georgia Department of Driver Services at the phone number on their website and describe your situation. They can tell you whether your specific case can be transferred or whether you will need to take a written test, a driving test, or both. This phone call takes 10 to 15 minutes and can save you a wasted trip to the office.

After you receive your permanent card

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases, though it can take up to 2 weeks if the DDS office is processing a high volume of applications. Once your permanent card arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid — destroy it or keep it for your records.

If your permanent card does not arrive within 3 weeks, contact the Georgia DDS office where you applied. They can check the status of your card and reissue it if it was lost in the mail. If you move to a different Georgia address before your card arrives, you can update your mailing address on the DDS website or by calling the office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take a written test or driving test to transfer my license?

No, not if your out-of-state license is currently valid. Georgia honors valid licenses from other U.S. states. However, if your license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than 2 years, or if you have certain violations on your record, you may need to take a test. Call the Georgia DDS before you visit to confirm your situation.

Can I transfer my license if I do not have a permanent Georgia address yet?

Yes. You can use a temporary address — such as a friend's or family member's address — as long as you have a document proving you live there. Once you get a permanent address, you can update it on the DDS website or at any DDS office without getting a new license.

What if I lost my out-of-state license?

You cannot transfer a license you do not have. Contact your previous state's DMV or equivalent agency and request a replacement or a letter stating your license status. Bring that letter to the Georgia DDS office along with your other documents. Georgia may issue you a new license, but the process may take longer.

How long does it take to get my permanent card in the mail?

Most permanent cards arrive within 7 to 10 business days. Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days, so you have time to drive while you wait. If your card does not arrive within 3 weeks, contact the DDS office where you applied and they can check on it or reissue it.

Can I renew my Georgia license before it expires?

Yes. You can renew your Georgia license up to 6 months before it expires. You can renew online through the Georgia DDS website if your license is not suspended and you do not need to update your photograph. If you need a new photo or have other changes, you must visit an office in person.