Georgia's learner's permit lets you drive under supervision before you take the road test

Georgia issues a learner's permit (also called a learner's license) through the Department of Driver Services. It is a document that allows you to practice driving on public roads with a licensed adult in the car, before you pass the road test for an unrestricted license. The permit is not a full driver's license — it comes with real restrictions on when you can drive, who must be in the car, and what roads you can use.

You get the permit by passing a written knowledge test at a DDS office. The test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. Once you have the permit, you can drive during daylight and early evening hours with a supervising driver who is at least 21 years old and holds a valid license. You must keep the permit with you whenever you drive.

Key Takeaways

  • Georgia's learner's permit requires you to pass a written knowledge test at a Department of Driver Services office; you do not need to own a car or have insurance in your name to get one.
  • With a learner's permit, you can drive only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m., and only with a licensed adult at least 21 years old sitting in the front passenger seat.
  • You cannot drive alone, use a cell phone while driving, or carry more than one passenger under 21 (other than a sibling) without a supervising adult present.
  • The permit is valid for five years, but you must pass the road test and meet the supervised driving hours before you can get an unrestricted license.
  • Georgia requires at least 40 hours of supervised driving (including 6 hours at night) before you are may be able to access to take the road test.

Age requirements and documents you need to bring

You must be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit in Georgia. If you are under 18, you will also need a parent or legal guardian to sign a consent form at the DDS office. Bring a birth certificate or passport, proof of your Social Security number (a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement in your name).

If you are 18 or older, you do not need parental consent, but you still need the same identity and address documents. Bring the originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If your documents are in a language other than English, bring an official English translation as well.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The knowledge test has 40 multiple-choice questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving. You must answer at least 32 questions correctly to pass. The test is offered in English and several other languages at most DDS offices.

The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, what different road signs mean, how to handle emergency vehicles, and impaired driving laws. You can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, which is free and available on the DDS website. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare. There is no fee waiver for the test, and you must pay the permit fee when you pass.

Driving restrictions while you hold a learner's permit

Your learner's permit comes with strict limits on when and how you can drive. You can drive only between 5 a.m. and 9 p.m. You cannot drive between 9 p.m. and 5 a.m., even with a supervising adult in the car. A licensed adult at least 21 years old must be in the front passenger seat at all times while you are driving.

You cannot use a cell phone or any wireless device while driving, even hands-free. You cannot carry passengers under 21 years old, except for a sibling, and only if a supervising adult is present. You must obey all traffic laws and speed limits. Violating these restrictions can result in your permit being suspended or revoked, and your supervising driver may also face penalties.

Supervised driving hours and how to track them

Georgia requires at least 40 hours of supervised driving before you can take the road test. Of those 40 hours, at least 6 must be at night (between sunset and sunrise). You do not have to complete all 40 hours before you explore for the road test, but you must have them logged before you can schedule the test appointment.

You are responsible for keeping a record of your driving hours. Some DDS offices provide a log sheet, or you can create your own. Write down the date, time of day, location, and number of hours for each driving session. Bring this log with you when you schedule your road test. The supervising driver does not have to sign off on the hours, but it is a good idea to have them verify your record in case there are questions.

How to schedule your road test after you meet the requirements

Once you have completed 40 hours of supervised driving (including 6 hours at night), you can schedule your road test. You can book an appointment online through the DDS website, by phone at 678-413-8400, or in person at a DDS office. Road test appointments fill up quickly, especially in busy areas, so schedule as soon as you are ready.

Bring your learner's permit, proof of your supervised driving hours, and a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have valid license plates and a current inspection sticker. The supervising driver does not have to be present during the road test itself, but you will need to arrange transportation to the testing location.

What happens if you fail the road test or your permit expires

If you do not pass the road test, you can retake it. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the road test fee each time. You can schedule another appointment as soon as you are ready. Many people take the test multiple times before passing, so do not be discouraged.

Your learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to renew it. You can renew by visiting a DDS office and paying the renewal fee. You do not have to retake the knowledge test if you are renewing within the five-year window. If more than five years have passed, you will need to start over with the knowledge test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to school or work with a learner's permit?

No. Your learner's permit does not have exceptions for school or work. You can drive only during the 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. window with a supervising adult in the front seat. If you need to drive outside those hours for school or work, you will need to get your unrestricted license by passing the road test.

What if I get pulled over while driving with my learner's permit?

Hand the officer your learner's permit, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. If you are violating any of the permit restrictions (wrong time of day, no supervising driver, using a phone), you may receive a citation. The supervising driver can also be cited for allowing the violation. Be honest and respectful with the officer.

Do I need to have insurance to get a learner's permit?

You do not need insurance in your name to get the permit itself. However, the vehicle you drive must be insured. The insurance can be in your parent's name or the vehicle owner's name. When you take the road test, the vehicle must have current insurance and a valid inspection sticker.

Can I drive on the highway with a learner's permit?

Yes, you can drive on highways during the permitted hours (5 a.m. to 9 p.m.) with a supervising adult. However, some DDS offices may restrict highway driving during the first few weeks of permit holding. Check with your local DDS office about any local guidelines.

How much does a Georgia learner's permit cost?

The permit fee varies and is set by the DDS. There is also a separate fee for the knowledge test and a fee for the road test. Contact your local DDS office or visit the DDS website for current fees, as they may change.