What you need to bring to the Georgia DDS office

Georgia issues driver's licenses through the Department of Driver Services (DDS). To get your first license or replace one that has expired, you will need to visit a DDS office in person with specific documents. The state requires proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number — you cannot complete this by mail or online.

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a consular report of birth abroad. A photocopy will not work. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days that shows your current Georgia address. A driver's license from another state counts as proof of residency if it is still valid.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have your Social Security number yet, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration before visiting DDS. You will also need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, and current address when you explore.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Georgia DDS office in person with an original birth certificate or passport, proof of residency dated within 60 days, and proof of your Social Security number.
  • The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual available free on the DDS website.
  • The vision screening and road test happen on the same day as your written test if you pass, so plan for the full appointment to take two to three hours.
  • Your new license will be mailed to your Georgia address within 7 to 10 business days after you pass all tests.
  • The fee for a four-year license is $32; an eight-year license costs $64.

Scheduling your DDS appointment

Georgia allows you to schedule an appointment online through the DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400. Scheduling ahead is strongly recommended because walk-ins are accepted only at certain locations and wait times can exceed two hours. When you schedule, you will choose your local DDS office and select a date and time that works for you.

Some DDS offices have limited hours or days of operation. If you live in a rural area, the nearest office may be 30 or more miles away. Check the DDS office locator on their website to find the location closest to you and confirm their hours before you schedule.

Passing the written test

The written test has 35 questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 28 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages; request your language when you schedule your appointment.

You can study for free using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is available as a PDF on the DDS website. The manual covers everything the test covers. Many people study it for one to two weeks before their appointment. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most DDS offices, though you may have to wait and pay the test fee again.

The vision screening and road test

If you pass the written test, you will take a vision screening at the same appointment. The screener will check whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you will not be able to take the road test that day and will need to return after you have corrected your vision.

The road test happens after you pass the vision screening. A DDS examiner will ride with you in your own vehicle (or a vehicle you provide) while you demonstrate basic driving skills. The test lasts about 10 to 15 minutes and includes starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. You must have a valid vehicle registration and proof of insurance in the car. If you fail, you can retake the road test, but you will have to schedule a new appointment and pay the test fee again.

What happens after you pass

Once you pass all three parts — the written test, vision screening, and road test — the DDS office will issue you a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for driving in Georgia when ready. Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address you provided on your process within 7 to 10 business days.

If you move before your license arrives, you can request a replacement at a DDS office or update your address online through the DDS website. There is no fee to update your address if your license has not yet arrived.

Renewing an expired Georgia license

If your Georgia license has expired but you have held one before, the renewal process is simpler than getting your first license. You can renew online through the DDS website if your license expired fewer than five years ago and you have not had any major changes to your name or address. Online renewal costs $32 for a four-year license and takes about 10 business days.

If your license expired more than five years ago, you have changed your name, or you prefer to renew in person, you will need to visit a DDS office with proof of identity and proof of residency. You will not have to retake the written test or road test, but you will have a new vision screening. The in-person renewal takes about one hour and costs the same as online renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the road test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?

Yes. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but it must have a valid registration and proof of insurance in the car. Many people borrow a family member's vehicle for the road test. The vehicle must be in safe working condition and have working turn signals, brake lights, and windshield wipers.

What if I fail the road test?

You can retake the road test, but you will need to schedule a new appointment through the DDS website or by phone. You will pay the test fee again. Most people pass on their second or third attempt. Between attempts, practice the skills the examiner noted you needed to improve.

Do I need to pass the written test before I can take the road test?

Yes. You must pass the written test and vision screening on the same day before you take the road test. If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready at most offices, but you cannot take the road test until you pass the written test.

How long is a Georgia driver's license valid?

A Georgia driver's license is valid for four or eight years, depending on which you choose when you explore. An eight-year license costs twice as much as a four-year license. You can choose either option when you get your first license or when you renew.

What if I lose my license before it arrives in the mail?

Contact the DDS office where you applied and ask for a replacement. You will need to visit the office in person with proof of identity. There is a fee for a replacement license, which varies depending on how long your original license was valid for.