Where to get a replacement Georgia driver's license

You can replace your Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in the state. Georgia operates about 60 DDS locations, with at least one in every county. The fastest way to find your nearest office is to visit the DDS website and use their office locator tool, which shows hours, address, and whether you need an appointment.

You have two main paths: visit in person during business hours, or use the mail-in renewal option if your license is not suspended or revoked. The in-person route typically takes 15 to 30 minutes once you are called, though wait times vary by location and time of day. Mail-in renewal takes 7 to 10 business days for processing, plus shipping time both ways.

Some DDS offices now use appointment systems to reduce wait times. Check your local office's website or call ahead to see whether you need to book a time slot or can walk in.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Georgia DDS office in person with your current ID, proof of residency, and the replacement fee, or mail in your process if your license is still valid.
  • You will need to bring original or certified copies of documents proving your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency — a utility bill or lease counts for residency.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license valid for eight years, or $20 for a four-year license if you are over 65.
  • If your license was lost or stolen, you may need to file a police report or sign an affidavit stating the circumstances, depending on the DDS office.
  • Mail-in renewal works only if your license is not suspended, revoked, or expired by more than five years.

Documents you need to bring

Georgia requires proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You do not need all three from the same document — you can mix and match.

For identity, bring one of these: your current Georgia driver's license, passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. If you are replacing a lost or stolen license, your passport or military ID is the strongest option because it is harder to forge.

For Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 or tax return, a 1099 form, or a pay stub with your full number visible. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration.

For residency, bring a recent utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or property tax bill in your name with a Georgia address. The document must be dated within the last 60 days. A bank or credit card statement also works if it shows your current address.

The in-person replacement process

Arrive at your DDS office with your documents and fee. Check in at the front desk and take a number. When called, you will go to a window where staff will review your documents, take a new photo, and collect your fee.

You will be asked to sign a form confirming your information and any restrictions (corrective lenses, hearing aid, etc.). If your vision has changed, you may be asked to read an eye chart. Staff will then issue you a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed.

Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Keep the temporary license with you until the plastic card arrives. If you need to drive before the plastic card comes, the temporary license is valid for all purposes.

Mail-in renewal and when it works

You can renew by mail only if your current Georgia license is valid (not expired, suspended, or revoked) and has not been expired for more than five years. You cannot use mail-in renewal if you need to change your name, address, or restrictions, or if you are replacing a lost or stolen license.

To renew by mail, read the DL 44 form from the DDS website, fill it out completely, and mail it with a copy of your current license and your fee. Mail your packet to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 7 to 10 business days from the date DDS receives it, then 3 to 5 days for delivery.

You will receive a temporary paper license by mail along with your process confirmation. Use this temporary license while you wait for your plastic card. If your mail-in renewal is denied, DDS will send you a letter explaining why and what to do next — usually a visit to an office in person.

Fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year driver's license costs $32. If you are 65 or older, you can get a four-year license for $20. A commercial driver's license (CDL) replacement costs more and has different requirements.

DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. If you are renewing by mail, include a check or money order — do not send cash through the mail.

There are no additional fees for a replacement license unless you are also changing your name or address, which may require extra documents but no extra charge.

What to do if your license was lost or stolen

If your license was lost, you can straightforward report it lost at the DDS office and request a replacement. You do not need a police report for a lost license. Bring your documents and fee as usual.

If your license was stolen, some DDS offices ask you to file a police report first or sign an affidavit stating that it was stolen. Call your local DDS office before you visit to ask what they require. If you file a police report, bring the report number or a copy of the report with you.

Whether lost or stolen, you should also contact your bank and any other institutions that have your license number on file, in case someone tries to use it fraudulently. Georgia does not charge extra for a replacement due to loss or theft.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online?

No. Georgia does not offer online replacement. You must visit a DDS office in person or mail in your renewal process if your license is still valid. Some states offer online renewal, but Georgia requires an in-person visit or mail-in form for all replacements.

How long does a replacement license take?

If you visit in person, you receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you mail in your renewal, the entire process takes 10 to 15 business days plus shipping time. Expedited processing is not available.

What if I moved out of state but still have a Georgia license?

You cannot renew a Georgia license if you no longer live in Georgia. You must get a license in your new state. If you need a replacement before you move, visit a DDS office in person with your current documents and address.

Do I need an appointment?

It depends on your local DDS office. Some offices use appointment systems, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Check the DDS website or call your office to find out. Appointments, when available, usually reduce wait time significantly.

What if my documents are from another country?

Foreign documents must be certified or translated by an official translator. Bring the original foreign document plus the certified English translation. DDS staff can tell you whether your specific document is acceptable — call ahead if you are unsure.