Where to replace your Georgia driver license

You can replace a lost or damaged Georgia driver license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office across the state. Georgia operates about 60 DDS locations, including offices in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, and most mid-sized cities. You do not have to go to the office in your home county — any location will process your replacement.

The fastest option is often a DDS Express location, which handles only license replacements and renewals without the longer wait times of full-service offices. Express locations are in high-traffic areas like shopping centers and are open extended hours, including some Saturday mornings. You can find the nearest office and check current wait times on the Georgia DDS website.

If you cannot reach an office in person, Georgia does not offer mail-in replacement for lost licenses, but you can renew by mail if your license is not lost — only if it expired or is about to expire. For a lost license, an in-person visit is required.

Key Takeaways

  • You need your Social Security number, proof of Georgia residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and payment of the replacement fee to get a new license.
  • Georgia charges a flat fee for license replacement that varies slightly depending on the type of license, but is typically under $35 for a standard replacement.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days; you cannot take it with you the day you explore.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first, though it is not required to get a replacement.
  • DDS Express locations have shorter wait times than full-service offices and are often open on Saturdays.

Documents and information you need to bring

Bring your Social Security number — you will need to provide it when you explore. Have it memorized or written down; the DDS office will not accept a Social Security card as proof of the number itself.

You must show proof of Georgia residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or insurance policy dated within the last 60 days. The document must show your name and current Georgia address. A phone bill or credit card statement will not work. If you recently moved and your address on file at DDS does not match your current residence, bring a document showing the new address.

Bring a valid form of photo identification if you have one — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver license. If your license was lost and you have no other photo ID, tell the DDS staff when you arrive. You can still get a replacement, but the process may take longer because staff will need to verify your identity through other means, such as checking your fingerprints against DDS records.

Have your payment method ready. Georgia DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Checks are not accepted. The replacement fee is typically $32 for a standard Class D driver license, but fees vary slightly for commercial licenses or other types.

The replacement process and timeline

When you arrive at a DDS office, check in at the front desk and tell staff you need a replacement license. You will be given a number and asked to wait. At your turn, an agent will verify your identity, check your Social Security number against state records, and confirm your current address. This step usually takes 5 to 10 minutes.

You will then be asked to sit for a new photo. The photo is taken on-site using DDS equipment. You cannot bring a photo from home or use an old one. Wear something you are comfortable being photographed in; the photo will appear on your license for the next 8 years (or until renewal).

After your photo is taken, you will pay the replacement fee and sign a form confirming the information on your new license. The agent will hand you a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days while your permanent license is being printed and mailed. Keep this paper license with you — it is your proof of a valid license until the plastic card arrives.

Your new plastic license will be mailed to the address you provided at the office. Standard mailing takes 7 to 10 business days. You cannot pick it up at the office or request expedited shipping. If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, the temporary paper license is sufficient for all purposes, including traffic stops.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, you may want to file a police report, though it is not required to get a replacement. A police report creates an official record that your license was taken without your consent, which can protect you if the license is misused. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or in person at a precinct.

When you explore for your replacement at DDS, mention that your license was stolen. Staff will note this in your file. You do not need to bring the police report to the DDS office, but having the report number can be helpful if questions arise later about the lost license being used fraudulently.

If you are concerned about identity theft, consider placing a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place an alert for free by contacting any one of the three bureaus.

Replacing a license that is damaged but not lost

If your license is still in your possession but is damaged — torn, faded, water-damaged, or the magnetic strip no longer works — you can still get a replacement at any DDS office. Bring the damaged license with you along with your proof of residency and payment. The process is the same as for a lost license: new photo, temporary paper license, and a permanent license mailed within 7 to 10 days.

The fee for replacing a damaged license is the same as for a lost one. You do not pay extra because the license is damaged rather than missing. If the damage is minor and the license is still readable, you may be asked whether you want to replace it now or wait until your next renewal, but you have the right to replace it when ready if you choose.

Checking the status of your replacement license

Once you have received your temporary paper license, you can check the status of your permanent license on the Georgia DDS website. You will need your driver license number (which appears on your temporary license) and your date of birth. The website will show whether your license has been printed and is in the mail, or if there is a delay.

If your permanent license does not arrive within 14 business days, contact the DDS customer service line. Wait times can vary, but calling early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter hold times. Have your temporary license number and date of birth ready when you call.

If your license arrives damaged or with incorrect information, you can return to any DDS office for a free correction or replacement. Bring the damaged or incorrect license and your proof of residency. This replacement does not cost an additional fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day I explore?

No. Georgia mails all replacement licenses, and you cannot pick one up at the office. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed, which takes 7 to 10 business days. The temporary license is valid for driving and all legal purposes.

What if I moved out of state after losing my license?

You can still get a Georgia replacement mailed to an out-of-state address. Bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from your new state) to a Georgia DDS office, or contact DDS by phone to update your address before your replacement is mailed. Your new license will be sent to whichever address is on file.

Do I need a police report to replace a lost license?

No. A police report is not required by Georgia DDS to issue a replacement. Filing one is optional and is mainly useful if you are concerned about identity theft or if the lost license is later used fraudulently. You can file a report online or in person with your local police department.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

You must have a document dated within 60 days showing your name and Georgia address. If you cannot provide one, contact DDS before you visit an office to ask about alternative documents. In some cases, DDS may accept a notarized statement of residency or other documentation, but this varies and requires advance approval.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. Your replacement license is mailed directly to the address on file at DDS. You cannot arrange for it to be held at an office for pickup or have someone else collect it. If you are moving before your license arrives, update your address with DDS as soon as possible so it is mailed to your new location.