How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Georgia driver's license either online, by mail, or in person at a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. Online renewal is the fastest option if you're may be able to access — it takes about 10 minutes and your new license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes longer but requires no trip. In-person renewal at a DDS office is necessary only if you need a new photo, have a medical condition that affects your driving, or don't meet the requirements for online or mail renewal.

Before you start, gather your current Georgia driver's license and a valid payment method. If you're renewing by mail, you'll also need to print and complete the process form. For in-person renewal, bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days).

Key Takeaways

Online renewal is available if your license is not expired more than two years, you have no medical restrictions, and you have no address changes since your last renewal.
Mail renewal takes 4 to 6 weeks total and costs the same as in-person renewal, with no office visit required.
In-person renewal at a DDS office requires proof of your Social Security number and current address, and you can walk in without an appointment at most locations.
Your new license will be mailed to you regardless of which renewal method you choose; you cannot pick it up at the office.
Renewal fees vary based on your license type and how long you want it valid — typically $32 for a five-year license or $64 for an eight-year license.

Renewing online through the Georgia DDS website

Go to dds.georgia.gov and click "Renew Your License" under the Driver's License section. You'll be asked to enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will confirm your identity and show you whether you're may be able to access for online renewal. If you see a message that you cannot renew online, the next section covers mail and in-person options.

If you're may be able to access, you'll review your current information and make any updates to your address or emergency contact. Then you'll pay the renewal fee using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check. After payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your current license until the new one arrives.

Renewing by mail if online renewal is not an option

read the Driver's License Renewal process (Form DL 44) from dds.georgia.gov or call the DDS at 678-413-8400 to request a form by mail. Complete the form by hand — print clearly in black or blue ink. Include your current driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. If your address has changed since your last renewal, write your new address on the form.

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a copy of your proof of address if you've moved. Mail processing typically takes 4 to 6 weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope. Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided on the form. If you don't receive your license within eight weeks, call DDS to check the status.

Renewing in person at a DDS office

Find your nearest DDS office on dds.georgia.gov by entering your county or zip code. Most offices are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and do not require appointments — you can walk in during business hours. Bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or 1099), and proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days (utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement).

At the office, tell the staff member you're renewing your license. They will verify your documents, take a new photo, and process your payment. The fee is the same as online or mail renewal. You'll receive a receipt with a temporary license number you can use when ready if needed. Your new physical license will be mailed to your address within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can use the receipt as proof of renewal.

What happens if your license has been expired for more than two years

If your Georgia license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it — you must explore for a new license instead. This requires an in-person visit to a DDS office. You'll need to bring proof of your Social Security number, proof of your current address, and proof of your Georgia residency (a utility bill or lease in your name). You may also need to pass a vision test and written knowledge test, depending on how long your license has been expired.

Contact your local DDS office or call 678-413-8400 to ask what documents and tests are required for your situation. Processing a new license process takes longer than a renewal — typically 2 to 3 weeks after your office visit — so plan accordingly if you need to drive soon.

Paying the renewal fee and understanding license validity periods

Georgia driver's licenses can be renewed for either five years or eight years. A five-year renewal costs $32, and an eight-year renewal costs $64. You choose the validity period when you renew, whether you're going online, by mail, or in person. There is no discount for choosing the shorter period, so most people choose the eight-year option to avoid renewing as often.

Payment methods depend on your renewal route. Online renewal accepts credit cards, debit cards, and electronic checks. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal at a DDS office accepts cash, checks, debit cards, and credit cards. Your new license will be valid for the period you chose, starting from the date it is issued — not from the date you applied.

Tracking your new license and what to do if it doesn't arrive

After you renew, you won't receive a tracking number or shipping confirmation. Your new license is mailed automatically to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days for most renewals, though mail delays can extend this. If you renewed online or by mail, keep your confirmation number or receipt in case you need to check on your renewal status.

If your new license doesn't arrive within two weeks, call the DDS at 678-413-8400 with your driver's license number and confirmation number. They can confirm whether your license was mailed and provide an updated delivery estimate. If your license was lost in the mail, DDS can reissue it. Do not request a replacement until at least two weeks have passed, as the office will need time to investigate whether the original was delivered.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. You must be a Georgia resident to hold a Georgia driver's license. If you've moved out of state, you should obtain a license from your new state. If you still live in Georgia but temporarily out of state, you can renew online or by mail using your Georgia address.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

If you've changed your name due to marriage, divorce, or legal name change, you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DDS office and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The office will update your name and issue your new license.

Do I need a new photo when I renew?

Online and mail renewals use your existing photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a DDS office. A new photo is also required if your current license photo is more than 10 years old or if DDS determines the photo no longer looks like you.

Can someone else pick up my renewed license for me?

No. Your new license is mailed directly to you at your address on file. It cannot be picked up at the DDS office or transferred to another person. If you're concerned about mail delivery, update your address before renewing to may support it goes to a find location.

What if I have a medical condition that affects my driving?

If you have a medical condition that requires restrictions on your license (such as corrective lenses or hand controls), you cannot renew online. You must renew in person at a DDS office so staff can review your medical status and update any necessary restrictions on your new license.

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.