What you need to bring to the DPS office

Georgia's Department of Driver Services (DPS) requires specific documents before you can take the learner's permit test. You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

For proof of identity, bring an original or certified birth certificate, a valid passport, or a consular report of birth. A photocopy will not work — DPS needs the original document. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must be present and bring their own photo ID.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days and showing your current Georgia address. A cell phone bill does not count. If you live with someone else, bring a notarized affidavit from that person along with their proof of residency.

Key Takeaways

  • Bring your original birth certificate or passport, proof of Georgia residency from the last 60 days, and your Social Security number or ITIN to any DPS office.
  • If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must come with you and bring their photo ID.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Georgia Driver's Manual, which you can read free online at the DPS website.
  • You pay a one-time fee at the DPS office when you pass the test; the permit is valid for five years.
  • After you receive your permit, you must follow Georgia's restrictions: no driving alone, no driving between midnight and 5 a.m., and a licensed adult 21 or older must be in the front seat.

Finding your nearest DPS office and hours

DPS has driver's license offices across Georgia, but not every office handles learner's permits. Before you go, check the DPS website at dds.georgia.gov and use their office locator tool to find branches near you that issue permits. Many offices require you to take a number and wait; some allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can cut your wait time significantly.

Hours vary by location. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, but some stay open one evening per week or offer Saturday hours. Call ahead or check the website for the specific office you plan to visit, because hours change seasonally and some offices close for state holidays.

What the written test covers

The learner's permit test has 40 multiple-choice questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. The test covers road signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking rules, and safe driving practices. All questions come from the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is free to read or read online at dds.georgia.gov.

You take the test on a computer at the DPS office. The test is offered in English and Spanish. You have 30 minutes to complete it, and you will know your score when ready. If you do not pass, you can retake the test the same day or come back another day — there is no waiting period between attempts.

Age requirements and restrictions on your permit

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Georgia. If you are under 18, your parent or legal guardian must sign your process at the DPS office.

Once you have your permit, Georgia law sets specific restrictions on how you can drive. You cannot drive alone — a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front seat with you at all times. You cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except to call 911. These rules stay in place for the entire time you hold the learner's permit.

How long the permit is valid and what happens next

Your learner's permit is valid for five years from the date DPS issues it. You can use it to practice driving during that entire period. There is no rush to take your road test — you can wait months or years if you need more practice time.

When you are ready to take your road test and get your driver's license, you will return to a DPS office with your permit, proof of completion of a driver's education course (if you are under 18), and payment for the license fee. The road test itself takes about 15 to 20 minutes and includes both driving and parking maneuvers.

The fee and what it covers

DPS charges a single fee when you pass the written test and receive your learner's permit. This fee covers the five-year validity period of your permit. You pay at the DPS office on the day you pass the test — there is no online payment option. Keep your receipt, as you will need to show it when you return for your road test.

The fee amount varies slightly depending on whether you are a Georgia resident and your age, so ask the DPS office staff for the exact amount when you arrive. If you fail the written test, you do not pay anything that day; you only pay if you pass.

Preparing for the test at home

The Georgia Driver's Manual is the only study material you need. DPS publishes it free online at dds.georgia.gov, and you can also request a printed copy at any DPS office. The manual covers every topic on the test, and most people who read it carefully pass on their first attempt.

Many people also use free practice tests available online through third-party websites, which can help you get used to the format and timing. However, the official manual is what matters — focus on understanding the rules, not just memorizing answers. Pay special attention to right-of-way rules and speed limit laws, as these appear frequently on the test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the test if I do not have a Social Security number?

Yes. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. DPS accepts both. You will need to provide one or the other — you cannot skip this step.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day or return another day with no penalty. There is no waiting period between attempts in Georgia. You do not pay a fee unless you pass, so failing does not cost you money.

Do I have to take a driver's education course before I get my permit?

No. You can take the written test and get your learner's permit without completing driver's education first. However, if you are under 18, you must complete an approved driver's education course before you can take your road test and get your license.

Can I drive to school with my learner's permit?

Only if a licensed driver 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive alone, even to school. The adult must be present every time you drive.

What happens if I move out of Georgia while I have a learner's permit?

Your Georgia permit is no longer valid once you become a resident of another state. You will need to get a learner's permit from your new state. Contact that state's DMV or equivalent agency for their requirements.