What you can and cannot change online
Georgia lets you update some information on your driver's license through the Department of Driver Services website, but not everything. You can change your address, add or remove a REAL ID designation, update your organ donor status, and correct your name if you have legal documentation. You cannot renew an expired license online, change your photo, or update your date of birth through the website.
The online process is faster than going to a DDS office — most changes take effect within a few business days. However, if your change requires new identification documents (like a legal name change), you will still need to visit an office in person to show those documents.
Key Takeaways
- Address changes, organ donor updates, and REAL ID changes can be completed online through the Georgia DDS website without visiting an office.
- You will need your current Georgia driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth to log in.
- Name changes require you to upload a legal document (marriage certificate, court order, or divorce decree) and may require an in-person visit depending on the type of change.
- Changes made online typically take three to five business days to process, and you do not need to pay a fee for address or status updates.
- If you cannot complete your update online, you can visit a DDS office or mail your request with supporting documents to the address on the DDS website.
Steps to update your address online
Go to the Georgia Department of Driver Services website at dds.ga.gov. Look for the "Online Services" section and select "Update Your Information." You will be asked to log in using your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth.
Once you are logged in, select "Address Change" from the menu. Enter your new address exactly as you want it to appear on your license. Review the information for accuracy, then submit. You will receive a confirmation number on screen — save or print this for your records. Your new address will be active within three to five business days, and you do not need to pay a fee.
How to update your name online
Name changes require you to upload a legal document proving the change. Log in to the DDS website the same way you would for an address change. Select "Name Change" and choose the type of document you have: marriage certificate, divorce decree, court order, or other legal document.
Upload a clear photo or scan of the document. The DDS will review it, and if everything matches your records, the change will be processed. Some name changes can be completed entirely online; others may require you to visit a DDS office in person to verify the document. You will receive a notification by email or mail telling you which step comes next. There is no fee for a name change if your license is not expired.
Adding or removing REAL ID status
A REAL ID is a federal security standard that allows your Georgia license to be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings without a passport. If you want to add REAL ID to your current license, you can start the process online, but you will need to complete it in person at a DDS office because you must show original identity documents.
To remove REAL ID status, log in to your account and select "REAL ID Status." You can remove it online without visiting an office. Removing REAL ID does not change your license number or expiration date — it only changes the security level of your card.
Updating your organ donor status
You can add yourself to Georgia's organ donor registry or remove yourself from it through the online portal. Log in and select "Organ Donor Status." Choose whether you want to be a donor, and confirm your choice. This change takes effect when ready and does not require a new physical license card.
If you want to register as a donor but do not have a Georgia driver's license, you can register separately through the Donate Life Georgia website, which is run by the state's organ procurement organization.
What to do if you cannot update online
If your change is not available through the online system, you have two other options. You can visit a DDS office in person with your current license and any supporting documents (such as a marriage certificate or proof of address). Most offices accept walk-ins, though wait times vary by location and time of day.
You can also mail your request to the Georgia Department of Driver Services at the address listed on the DDS website, along with copies of your supporting documents and a completed form. Mail processing takes longer — usually two to three weeks — so use this option only if you cannot visit an office or update online.
Common reasons updates are rejected
Your update may be rejected if the information you enter does not match what the DDS has on file, if your supporting documents are unclear or expired, or if there is a hold on your license (such as an unpaid traffic fine or child support obligation). If your update is rejected, you will receive a notification explaining why.
If you disagree with the reason for rejection, contact the DDS directly at the phone number on their website or visit an office in person. Bring any documents that support your case. Do not attempt to resubmit the same information multiple times — this can delay processing further.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does an online update take to show up on my license?
Most changes take three to five business days to process. Address changes are usually the fastest. If your update requires document review (like a name change), it may take longer. You will receive a confirmation email or letter when the change is complete.
Do I have to pay a fee to update my information online?
No. Address changes, organ donor updates, and REAL ID removals are free. Name changes are also free if your license is not expired. If you need a replacement card with your new information, there may be a small fee, but the update itself costs nothing.
Can I update my address if my license is expired?
You can update your address online even if your license is expired, as long as you can log in with your license number and personal information. However, if you need a new physical card, you will need to renew your license, which requires an in-person visit or a separate online renewal process.
What if I made a mistake when I submitted my update?
Contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services as soon as possible. If your update has not yet been processed, they may be able to cancel it and let you resubmit. If it has already been processed, you can submit a new update to correct the error.
Can I update my photo online?
No. Photo updates require an in-person visit to a DDS office. You will need to bring your current license and a valid form of identification. If you need a new photo, you can renew your license in person or wait until your license expires and renew it then.