Get a replacement license at your local Georgia DDS office with your ID and a completed form

If you've lost your Georgia driver's license, you can get a replacement without retaking the written or road test. You'll need to visit a Driver Services office in person, bring an acceptable ID document, and complete a short form. The replacement license costs money (the fee varies depending on how long your current license is valid for), and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while the plastic card arrives by mail in about one to two weeks.

You cannot replace a lost license online or by mail in Georgia. You must appear in person at a Driver Services office. The office will verify your identity, process your replacement, and issue you a temporary license valid for 45 days while your permanent replacement is printed and mailed to your address on file.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring a valid ID document (passport, birth certificate, or state ID) and your Social Security number to the Driver Services office.
  • Complete form DL 44 (process for Driver's License or Learner's Permit) at the office or read it beforehand to save time.
  • Pay the replacement fee at the time of your visit; the amount depends on your license expiration date.
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent replacement card by mail within one to two weeks.
  • If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report, though it is not required to get a replacement.

What ID documents you need to bring

Georgia requires one primary document to prove your identity. Acceptable documents include a valid U.S. passport, certified birth certificate, state ID card, military ID, or permanent resident card. If you bring a birth certificate, it must be a certified copy with an official seal — a photocopy will not work.

You'll also need to provide your Social Security number. If you don't have your Social Security card with you, you can provide the number from memory, but Driver Services will verify it with the Social Security Administration. Bring your current address if it has changed since your license was issued, because the replacement will be mailed to the address on file.

How to find and visit a Driver Services office

Georgia has Driver Services offices in most counties. Find the office nearest you by visiting the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and using their office locator tool, or call 678-413-8400 to confirm hours and current wait times. Some offices are busier than others, so calling ahead can help you plan your visit.

Bring all your documents in one trip — you cannot complete a replacement without them. Most offices accept walk-ins, but some locations allow you to schedule an appointment online. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available, as this can reduce your wait time significantly.

Complete form DL 44 before or at the office

You'll need to fill out form DL 44 (process for Driver's License or Learner's Permit). You can read this form from the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and complete it at home, or you can fill it out at the office. Completing it beforehand saves time, especially if the office is busy.

The form asks for your name, date of birth, address, Social Security number, and whether you want to donate organs. It also asks you to confirm that your vision, medical conditions, and other information have not changed since your last license was issued. Answer honestly — if your vision has changed or you've developed a medical condition that affects driving, you may need to take a vision test or provide a medical form from your doctor.

Pay the replacement fee and get your temporary license

The replacement fee depends on how long your current license is valid for. Georgia charges different amounts for licenses that expire in 4 years versus 8 years. Driver Services will tell you the exact fee when you arrive. Payment is cash, check, or card — confirm which methods your local office accepts by calling ahead.

Once you pay, you'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as your plastic license for driving, so you can use it when ready. Your permanent replacement card will be mailed to your address on file within one to two weeks. If you don't receive it after three weeks, contact Driver Services to check the status.

What to do if your license was stolen

If your license was lost in a theft or you suspect identity theft, you can file a police report with your local police department or sheriff's office. A police report is not required to get a replacement license, but it creates an official record in case someone tries to use your license number fraudulently.

If you're concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them. A fraud alert tells creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. This step is separate from replacing your license but can protect you if your personal information was compromised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if my license has expired?

Yes. You can get a replacement for an expired license using the same process. However, if your license expired more than a few years ago, Driver Services may require you to pass a vision test or provide updated medical information. Call your local office to confirm what they need before you visit.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You must visit a Georgia Driver Services office in person to get a replacement. If you're out of state and cannot return to Georgia when ready, you can request a duplicate license by mail through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website, though this takes longer. Call 678-413-8400 to ask about mail-in options for your situation.

How long does the replacement take?

You'll receive a temporary paper license the same day you visit the office. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you need your replacement faster, some offices may be able to issue a plastic license on the spot, but this is not may provide — call your local office to ask.

Do I need to retake the written or road test?

No. A replacement license does not require you to retake any tests. You only need to bring your ID, complete the form, and pay the fee. Tests are only required if your license was suspended, revoked, or if you're renewing after a long period of inactivity.

What if my address has changed since I got my license?

Bring proof of your new address to the Driver Services office — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. Your replacement license will be mailed to your new address. You can also update your address separately through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website if you want to do that before you visit.