What you pay for a replacement license in Georgia

A replacement driver's license in Georgia costs $32 if you renew it in person at a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. This is the standard fee for a regular Class D license valid for eight years. If you choose to renew by mail instead, the fee is the same — $32 — though mail renewal is only available if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired for more than five years.

The $32 fee covers the license itself and the processing. Georgia does not charge separate fees for replacement versus renewal, so whether your license was lost, stolen, or straightforward expired, you pay the same amount. If you need your replacement faster than standard processing, Georgia offers no expedited option through DDS, so the timeline depends on whether you go in person or by mail.

Some DDS offices accept cash, debit, or credit card. A few locations accept only certain payment methods, so calling ahead or checking the office location details on the DDS website before you go can save a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • A replacement Georgia driver's license costs $32 whether you renew in person or by mail.
  • In-person replacement at a DDS office is faster than mail renewal, which can take several weeks.
  • You must bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and proof of identity to replace your license in person.
  • If your license has been expired for more than five years, you cannot renew by mail and must go to a DDS office.

In-person replacement at a DDS office

Replacing your license in person at a Georgia DDS office takes about 15 to 30 minutes if you arrive with all required documents. You will receive your temporary license on the spot, valid for 30 days while your permanent license is printed and mailed to you. The permanent license usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

You need to bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), a document proving your identity (such as a passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), and proof of your current Georgia address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

DDS offices are located throughout Georgia. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Georgia DDS website. Some offices are busier than others; going early in the morning or mid-week often means shorter waits.

Mail renewal for replacement licenses

If your license is not suspended or revoked and has been expired for five years or less, you can renew by mail. You will need to complete the DL 44 form (process for Driver's License or Learner's Permit), include a check or money order for $32 payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, and mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Mail renewal takes longer than in-person replacement — typically four to six weeks from the time DDS receives your process. You will not receive a temporary license, so you cannot drive legally during this period. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you must go to a DDS office in person instead.

Mail renewal is useful only if you do not need to drive in the near term and prefer not to visit an office. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must renew in person because mail renewal is not an option.

What happens if your license was suspended or revoked

If your Georgia license is suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward pay the $32 fee and receive a replacement. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension or revocation — whether that is paying outstanding traffic fines, completing a defensive driving course, paying child support arrears, or meeting other court or DDS requirements.

Once you have met those requirements, you can explore for reinstatement. Reinstatement fees vary depending on the reason for suspension or revocation and range from $210 to $500 or more. After you have paid the reinstatement fee and DDS has processed your case, you can then pay the $32 replacement fee to receive your new license.

Contact the Georgia DDS directly to find out what specific steps you need to take to reinstate your license. The DDS website has a section for suspended and revoked licenses that explains the process for each type of suspension.

Replacement licenses with a REAL ID endorsement

Georgia offers REAL ID-compliant licenses, which are required to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings. A REAL ID license costs the same as a standard license — $32 — but requires additional documents at the time of replacement.

In addition to your identity and residency documents, you must bring proof of your Social Security number and two documents proving your Georgia residency (instead of one). The documents must be original or certified copies; photocopies are not accepted. Examples include utility bills, lease agreements, mortgage statements, or bank statements dated within the last 60 days.

If you already have a REAL ID license and are straightforward replacing it because it was lost or stolen, the process is the same and costs $32. Your new license will also carry the REAL ID endorsement.

Timeline and what to expect after you pay

If you replace your license in person, you leave the office with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license is printed at a facility outside the office and mailed to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days, though it can occasionally take longer during high-volume periods.

If you replace by mail, the timeline is longer. DDS must receive your process, process it, print your license, and mail it to you — a process that typically takes four to six weeks. During this time, you have no valid license and cannot drive legally.

If your permanent license does not arrive within the expected timeframe, you can contact the DDS office where you applied or call the DDS customer service line. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready when you call.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Georgia does not offer same-day replacement. In-person replacement gives you a temporary license when ready, valid for 30 days, while your permanent license is printed and mailed — a process that takes 7 to 10 business days. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks.

Do I have to pay again if my replacement license arrives damaged?

No. If your license arrives damaged or defective, contact the DDS office and request a replacement at no additional charge. Bring your damaged license or the temporary license you received when you applied. DDS will reprint your license and mail it to you.

What if I move after I explore for a replacement?

Your replacement license will be mailed to the address on file when you applied. If you move before it arrives, you can update your address with DDS and request that your license be reissued to your new address, though this may delay delivery. Contact DDS as soon as possible after moving to avoid your license being mailed to an old address.

Is there a fee to replace a license if it was stolen?

No additional fee. Replacement costs $32 whether your license was lost, stolen, or straightforward expired. You do not need a police report to replace a stolen license, though you may want one for your records.

Can I replace my Georgia license if I now live out of state?

No. You must be a Georgia resident to hold a Georgia driver's license. If you have moved out of state, you should obtain a license from your new state of residence. If you still own property in Georgia or have other ties to the state, contact DDS to discuss your situation.