Georgia DDS locations handle renewals during business hours

You can renew your Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office across the state. These are the only places that issue and renew licenses in Georgia. Each office operates on its own schedule, and some locations get busier than others, so checking ahead for wait times can save you an hour or more.

DDS offices are run by the state and located in most counties. You'll find them in city centers, strip malls, and government buildings — not at the DMV (Georgia doesn't have a DMV). Walk-ins are accepted at all locations, but you can also schedule an appointment online through the Georgia DDS website, which often reduces your wait time to 15 to 30 minutes instead of an hour or more.

Key Takeaways

  • Every Georgia DDS office can renew your driver's license, and you can visit any location regardless of which county issued your current license.
  • Scheduling an appointment online through the Georgia DDS website typically cuts your wait time in half compared to walking in without one.
  • Bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and your Social Security number or ITIN to any renewal visit.
  • Hours vary by location, with most offices open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours.
  • If you cannot visit in person, you may be able to renew by mail if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements — check the DDS website first.

Finding the DDS office nearest you

The Georgia DDS website has a location finder that shows every office in the state, along with hours, phone numbers, and current wait times at many locations. You can search by city name or ZIP code. The site updates wait times throughout the day, so checking in the morning or mid-afternoon often shows shorter queues than lunch hour or late afternoon.

If you don't have internet access, you can call the DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400 to ask for the nearest office and its hours. They can also tell you whether a specific location is unusually busy that day. Some people find that smaller county offices have shorter waits than large urban locations, though this varies by time of day and day of week.

Scheduling an appointment online

The Georgia DDS website lets you book an appointment slot at most locations up to 30 days in advance. Go to the DDS website, select "Schedule an Appointment," choose your preferred location and date, and pick an available time slot. You'll receive a confirmation email with your appointment number and instructions.

Appointments are free and do not require payment upfront. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all required documents. If you need to cancel or reschedule, you can do so through the same website or by calling the office directly. Walk-ins are still accepted if you don't schedule ahead, but you'll typically wait longer.

What to bring to your renewal visit

Bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of your current address, and your Social Security number or ITIN. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days — it must show your name and current address.

If your name has changed since your last license (through marriage, divorce, or legal name change), bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you're renewing a license that expired more than five years ago, you may need to take the written test again — ask the DDS office when you call or schedule your appointment.

DDS office hours and what to expect

Most Georgia DDS offices are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., though some close for lunch between noon and 1 p.m. A few locations offer Saturday hours, typically 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., but these vary by office. Check the location finder on the DDS website for the exact hours of the office you plan to visit.

The renewal process itself usually takes 15 to 30 minutes once you reach the counter, including a new photo and a vision test. You'll pay the renewal fee at the time of your visit — the cost depends on whether you're renewing for four or eight years, and the DDS website lists current fees. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Alternatives if you cannot visit an office

If your current license is not expired and you meet certain conditions, you may be able to renew by mail without visiting a DDS office. The requirements are strict: your license must be valid, you cannot have any medical restrictions, and you must not need a new photo. Check the DDS website or call 678-413-8400 to see if you may have access to for mail renewal.

If you do may have access to for mail renewal, you'll receive a form in the mail before your license expires. Complete it, include payment, and mail it back to the address on the form. The process takes about two weeks total. If you don't receive a form and think you should, contact DDS directly — they can tell you whether you're may be able to access and send you the form.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at a DDS office in a different county than where I live?

Yes. You can visit any Georgia DDS office regardless of which county issued your current license or where you live now. There's no requirement to use a specific location — choose whichever is most convenient for you.

What if I don't have proof of residency with me?

You'll need to bring it with you to complete the renewal. If you forgot it, you can reschedule your appointment or come back another day. The DDS office cannot renew your license without proof of your current address, so a second trip is necessary.

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

Your new license is mailed to the address you provide at the DDS office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you need it faster, ask the DDS office whether they offer expedited mail options when you visit or call ahead.

Do I need an appointment, or can I just walk in?

Walk-ins are accepted at all DDS offices, but scheduling an appointment online usually means a much shorter wait — often 15 to 30 minutes instead of an hour or more. Appointments are free and take less than a minute to book on the DDS website.

What if my license has been expired for more than five years?

You may have to take the written driving test again when you renew. Call the DDS office or check the website before you visit to confirm whether your specific situation requires a test. If it does, you can study the Georgia Driver's Manual online before your appointment.