How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

What you need to do to renew in Georgia

Georgia renews driver's licenses by mail, online, or in person at a Department of Driver Services office. Which route you take depends on how much time you have and whether your license has restrictions that require an in-person visit. Most people can renew online or by mail without going to an office, but you'll need to know your current license number and have a valid payment method ready.

Your license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. Georgia sends renewal notices to the address on file about 60 days before expiration, but you don't have to wait for the notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website takes about 10 minutes and costs $32 for a standard eight-year license.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license along with a check or money order.
In-person renewal at a DDS office is required if your license has a medical restriction, if you need to change your address, or if you want a REAL ID-compliant license.
You cannot renew online if your license has expired for more than two years or if you've had certain violations or suspensions.

Renewing online through the Georgia DDS website

Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access. Go to the Georgia Department of Driver Services website, select "Renew Your License," and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will pull up your current information and ask you to confirm it's still correct.

You'll pay the $32 renewal fee with a credit or debit card. Once approved, your new license will be mailed to the address on file within seven to ten business days. You can continue driving on your current license until the new one arrives. Online renewal is not available if your license expired more than two years ago, if you have a medical restriction, or if you've had a suspension or revocation in the past five years.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal works if you're ineligible for online renewal but don't need to visit an office. Request a renewal form by calling the Georgia DDS at 678-413-8400, or read the form from their website. Fill it out completely, sign it, and mail it with your current license and a check or money order for $32 to the address listed on the form.

Processing takes two to three weeks after the DDS receives your envelope. Mail your renewal at least three weeks before your license expires to avoid driving with an expired license. Keep a copy of your mailed form and payment receipt in case questions come up. If your address has changed, you must renew in person instead of by mail.

Renewing in person at a DDS office

You must visit a DDS office if your license has a medical restriction, if you need to change your address, if you want a REAL ID-compliant license, or if you've had a suspension or revocation. Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the past 60 days). If your address has changed, bring two proofs of your new address.

Visit the Georgia DDS office locator on their website to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Some offices take walk-ins; others require you to schedule an appointment online. Processing at the office usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You'll pay $32 for a standard license or $35 for a REAL ID license, and you can pay with cash, check, or card. Your new license will be mailed to you within seven to ten business days.

Understanding REAL ID and whether you need it

A REAL ID-compliant license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal security standards. Starting May 7, 2025, you'll need a REAL ID license or a passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If your current Georgia license doesn't have the star, you can upgrade to one during renewal.

To get a REAL ID license, you must renew in person and bring proof of your identity (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization papers), proof of your Social Security number, and two proofs of your current address. The fee is $35 instead of $32. If you don't fly or visit federal buildings, a standard license is still valid for driving.

What happens if your license has expired

If your license expired fewer than two years ago, you can renew online or by mail using the same process as a current license. If it expired more than two years ago, you must renew in person at a DDS office. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal, plus your expired license.

Driving with an expired license is illegal in Georgia, even if you've already started the renewal process. If you're stopped by police, you can show proof that you've submitted a renewal process (a receipt or confirmation number), but this does not may provide you won't be cited. Renew before your expiration date to avoid this risk.

Fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year Georgia driver's license costs $32 to renew. A REAL ID license costs $35. The DDS accepts cash, check, money order, and credit or debit card, depending on how you renew. Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts all methods.

There are no additional fees for address changes or corrections to your name (if you've legally changed it). If you need to replace a lost or damaged license before your renewal date, that's a separate transaction with its own fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Georgia license if I've moved out of state?

Yes. If you've moved but still have a valid Georgia address on file, you can renew by mail or online and have your new license mailed to an out-of-state address. Contact the DDS to update your mailing address before you renew. If you've moved permanently and want a license from your new state, you'll need to follow that state's process instead.

How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?

Online and mail renewals take seven to ten business days after approval. In-person renewals also take seven to ten business days from the date you visit the office. You can drive on your current license until the new one arrives. If you need a license urgently, visit a DDS office in person, as that's the fastest way to complete the transaction.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

If you've legally changed your name through marriage, divorce, or court order, you must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). Online and mail renewal cannot process name changes. Bring this document along with your standard renewal documents.

Can I renew if I have a suspended or revoked license?

No. You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must first contact the Georgia DDS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do to restore your driving privileges. Once your license is restored, you can then renew it through the normal process.

Do I need to take a new photo for renewal?

No. Online and mail renewals use your photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DDS office. The office will take a new photo as part of the in-person renewal process at no extra cost.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.