You can replace a lost Georgia driver's license online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website, but only if your license hasn't expired and you don't need a new photo
Georgia's online replacement process is fast and costs $32. You'll receive your new license by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. The catch: this route works only if your current license is still valid (not expired) and you're comfortable keeping the same photo. If your license has expired or you want a new photo, you'll need to visit a driver services office in person instead.
The online process replaces your physical card when it's been lost, stolen, or damaged — but the state keeps your existing license record on file. You're not getting a new license number or restarting anything; you're just ordering a replacement card with the same information printed on it.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia's online replacement works only for valid (not expired) licenses and keeps your existing photo, so check your expiration date first.
- The $32 fee is paid by credit or debit card during the online order, and your new card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license is expired or you need a new photo, you must visit a Georgia driver services office in person instead.
- You'll need your Social Security number, date of birth, and current Georgia license number to start the online order.
What you need before you start the online order
Have your Social Security number, date of birth, and Georgia driver's license number ready. If you don't remember your license number, you can look it up on the Georgia Department of Driver Services website using your name and date of birth — but you'll need to do that before you begin the replacement order.
You'll also need a credit or debit card to pay the $32 replacement fee. Georgia does not accept cash, checks, or money orders for online orders. The charge will appear on your statement as a Georgia Department of Driver Services transaction.
Steps to order your replacement license online
Go to the Georgia Department of Driver Services website (dds.ga.gov). Look for the "Replace a Lost or Stolen License" option under the online services menu. You'll be taken to a form where you enter your personal information: name, date of birth, Social Security number, and your current Georgia license number.
The system will pull up your existing license record and show you the photo and information that will be printed on your replacement card. Review it carefully — this is your chance to catch any errors before you pay. If something is wrong (a misspelled name, incorrect address), you cannot fix it online; you'll need to visit a driver services office instead.
Once you confirm the information is correct, you'll enter your payment details and submit the order. You should receive a confirmation number when ready. Write it down or save the email confirmation — you'll need it if you want to check on your order status later.
How long it takes and what happens next
Your new license card will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days from the date you place the order. This timeline can vary depending on mail delivery in your area. Georgia does not offer expedited shipping for online replacement orders, so if you need your license faster, you'll have to go to a driver services office and pay for an in-person replacement instead.
While you're waiting for your new card, you can use your confirmation number as proof that you've ordered a replacement if you're stopped by police or need to show proof of licensure. Some employers and banks will accept this confirmation in the meantime, but it's not an official document — call ahead if you need to use it somewhere.
When you cannot use the online replacement
If your Georgia driver's license has expired, you cannot order a replacement online. You'll need to renew your license instead, which requires an in-person visit to a driver services office. The renewal process includes a new photo and costs more than a straightforward replacement.
You also cannot use the online replacement if you want a new photo on your license. If your appearance has changed significantly or you straightforward want a different photo, you must visit a driver services office. The same applies if your name, address, or other personal information has changed — those updates require an in-person appointment.
If your license was suspended or revoked, or if there's a hold on your driving record, the online system will not let you complete the order. You'll need to resolve the issue with the Georgia Department of Driver Services before you can get a replacement card.
In-person replacement at a Georgia driver services office
If the online route doesn't work for you, you can visit any Georgia driver services office to replace your lost license in person. Bring your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport, and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). You'll pay $32 for the replacement, plus $20 if you want a new photo.
In-person replacements usually take about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot that's valid for 45 days while your permanent card is mailed to you. Find your nearest driver services office and check its hours on the Georgia DDS website before you go — some offices require you to book an appointment online first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online if it was stolen?
Yes, the online replacement process works the same way whether your license was lost or stolen. You don't need to file a police report first. However, if you're concerned about identity theft, you may want to contact the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) to place a fraud alert on your credit file.
What if I don't know my Georgia license number?
You can look it up on the Georgia DDS website using your name and date of birth before you start the replacement order. Go to dds.ga.gov and use their license number lookup tool. You'll need this number to complete the online replacement form.
Can I track my replacement license after I order it online?
Yes, you can check the status using your confirmation number on the Georgia DDS website. The tracking tool will tell you whether your card has been mailed and an estimated delivery date, though the exact arrival depends on your local mail service.
What if my replacement license arrives damaged or with errors?
Contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services with your confirmation number and a photo of the damage or error. They can issue a replacement at no additional cost. You may need to return the damaged card first, depending on the type of error.
Do I need a new license if I just moved to a different Georgia address?
No, you need to update your address, not replace your license. Address changes must be done in person at a driver services office or online through the DDS website if you're only changing your mailing address. A replacement is only for a lost, stolen, or damaged card.