Get a replacement license from the Georgia Department of Driver Services

If you've lost your Georgia driver's license, you'll need to visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person to request a replacement. Georgia does not issue replacement licenses by mail or online. You can walk in without an appointment at most locations, though some offices accept appointments through their website.

The replacement process is straightforward: bring the documents listed below, pay the replacement fee (currently $32 for a standard license), and have your photo taken. You'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address on file. The plastic license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

If your address has changed since your license was issued, bring proof of your current address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. The replacement will be mailed to whatever address you provide at the DDS office.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Georgia DDS office in person; there is no online or mail replacement option.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency if your address changed, and payment ($32 for a standard license).
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days and your plastic replacement card within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, the temporary paper license is valid for all driving purposes.

What documents to bring to the DDS office

You don't need your original license to get a replacement — in fact, you can't produce it since it's lost. Instead, bring your Social Security number (written down or memorized) and a form of identification. A passport, military ID, or state ID card works. If you don't have any of those, a birth certificate plus one additional document with your name and date of birth (school ID, employee badge, insurance card) will work.

If your current address differs from the address on your lost license, bring proof of residency. The DDS accepts a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. A cell phone bill does not count as proof of residency in Georgia.

Bring your payment method — cash, debit card, or credit card. The replacement fee is $32 for a standard Class D license. If your license was a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is higher and you may face additional requirements; contact your local DDS office before visiting.

Finding your nearest DDS office and hours

Georgia has DDS locations in most counties. Visit the official Georgia DDS website and use their office locator tool to find the branch nearest you. The locator shows hours of operation, which vary by location — some offices are open Monday through Friday only, while others have Saturday hours. A few high-traffic locations stay open until 6 p.m.

Call ahead if you're unsure about wait times. Many DDS offices post current wait times on their website or answer the phone with an estimate. Early morning visits (first hour after opening) typically have shorter waits than midday or late afternoon.

If you live in a rural area far from a DDS office, some county tag offices can process replacement licenses on behalf of DDS. Call your county tag office to confirm they offer this service before making the drive.

What happens if you need to drive before your replacement arrives

The temporary paper license you receive at the DDS office is valid for all driving purposes — you can use it to drive, show it to police during a traffic stop, and present it as proof of license to your insurance company. It's not a restricted permit; it's a full, legal license valid for 30 days.

Keep the temporary license in your vehicle or wallet. If you're pulled over and show the paper license, the officer can verify it in the system. If you lose the temporary license before your plastic card arrives, return to the DDS office and request another temporary license for $5.

Replacing a license if you've moved out of state

If you've relocated to another state since your Georgia license was issued, you have two options. You can request a replacement Georgia license by mail through a process called remote renewal, though this only works if your license hasn't expired and you haven't changed your address on file since moving. Contact the Georgia DDS to confirm whether your specific situation qualifies.

If remote renewal isn't an option, you'll need to obtain a license from your new state of residence instead. Most states won't let you hold a valid license from two different states at the same time. Check your new state's DMV or equivalent agency for their replacement process.

Replacing a license if it was stolen or damaged

The replacement process is identical whether your license was lost or stolen. You don't need to file a police report or provide proof of theft — straightforward tell the DDS staff member that your license is lost or stolen, and they'll process the replacement.

If your license was damaged (water-damaged, faded, cracked), you can also request a replacement at any DDS office. Bring the damaged license if you have it, though it's not required. The fee and timeline are the same as for a lost license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my Georgia license if I'm not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. You'll need to bring your passport or visa, Social Security number, and proof of residency. The DDS issues licenses to legal residents regardless of citizenship status. Bring the same documents as any other applicant, plus your immigration documents.

What if my name has changed since my license was issued?

Bring legal proof of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DDS will update your name in the system and issue a replacement license with your current legal name. This counts as a replacement, not a renewal, so the fee is $32.

Do I need an appointment at the DDS office?

Most Georgia DDS offices accept walk-ins without an appointment. However, some locations now offer appointment scheduling through their website to reduce wait times. Check your local office's website to see if appointments are available in your area.

What if I move before my replacement license arrives?

Contact the Georgia DDS with your new address before the replacement is mailed. You can call or visit an office in person. If the license is already in the mail, it may still arrive at your old address; ask your mail carrier to forward it or contact DDS to have a new one sent to your updated address.

Can I get a replacement license with a different photo?

Yes. When you visit the DDS office, you'll have a new photo taken for your replacement license. You cannot use your old photo from the lost license.