How to Replace a Lost Driver's License in Georgia

Where to get a replacement license in Georgia

You can replace a lost Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office across the state. Georgia has about 60 DDS locations, including offices in Atlanta, Savannah, Augusta, and most county seats. You do not need an appointment at most locations, though some offices allow you to schedule one online to reduce wait time.

The fastest option is often your nearest DDS office rather than the one where you originally got your license. Walk-in service is available at all locations during business hours, typically 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, though hours vary by location. You can find your nearest office and its specific hours on the Georgia DDS website.

If you cannot reach a DDS office in person, you cannot renew or replace your license by mail or online. Georgia requires you to appear in person for a replacement license, even if your original license was not expired.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Department of Driver Services office in person with your Social Security number, proof of residency, and payment for the replacement fee.
Georgia charges a flat fee for a replacement license that varies depending on how many years remain on your current license expiration date.
A replacement license typically takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail; you can request a temporary paper license to drive when ready.
If your license was lost in Georgia, you do not need to file a police report, but you should report it to DDS to prevent fraud.
Your replacement license will have the same expiration date as your original license unless you renew it at the same time.

Documents and fees you need to bring

Bring your Social Security number (you can write it down if you do not have your Social Security card) and one form of proof of residency. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your current Georgia address on it. A government-issued ID with your address also works.

The replacement fee depends on how long your original license is valid for. If your license expires within one year, the fee is lower than if it expires in three or more years. As of 2024, fees range from roughly $20 to $32, but you should confirm the exact amount when you visit or call your local DDS office, as fees can change. DDS accepts cash, debit, and credit cards at most locations.

You do not need to bring your old license (since it is lost) or file a police report. DDS will issue a replacement based on your identity verification and Social Security number.

How the replacement process works at the DDS office

When you arrive at the DDS office, check in at the front desk and tell staff you need a replacement license. You will be assigned a number and called when it is your turn. The process typically takes 15 to 30 minutes from check-in to completion.

A DDS examiner will verify your identity using your Social Security number and proof of residency. They will ask you to confirm your address, signature, and any other information on your original license. If your address has changed since your original license was issued, you will need to update it now. The examiner will take a new photo for your replacement license.

After verification, you will pay the replacement fee and receive a temporary paper license. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive legally while you wait for your permanent replacement to arrive by mail. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address on file and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days.

What to do if your address has changed

If you have moved since your original license was issued, tell the DDS examiner before they process your replacement. You can update your address at the same time you replace your license at no additional cost. Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days).

If you do not update your address during the replacement process, your new license will still be mailed to your old address on file, and you will not receive it. You would then need to return to DDS again to correct the address and request a reissue.

Replacing a license lost outside Georgia

If you lost your Georgia license while traveling or living out of state, you still must visit a Georgia DDS office in person to replace it. You cannot complete the replacement remotely or through a DDS office in another state.

If you are temporarily out of state and need to drive, you have two options: wait until you return to Georgia to replace it, or obtain a temporary license from the state where you are currently located. Once you return to Georgia, you can replace your Georgia license at any DDS office using the same process described above.

Requesting an expedited replacement

Georgia DDS does not offer expedited mail delivery for replacement licenses. Your permanent license will arrive in 7 to 10 business days regardless of when you explore. However, the temporary paper license you receive at the office is valid for 30 days, which covers most situations where you need to drive before your permanent license arrives.

If you need your permanent license faster than the standard mail timeline, you have no official expedited option through DDS. Some people choose to return to the DDS office after 10 business days to ask if their license has arrived and can be picked up in person, but this is not may provide and depends on processing delays.

Preventing fraud after losing your license

When you report your lost license to DDS by explore for a replacement, DDS flags your old license number in their system so it cannot be used fraudulently. This happens automatically when you complete the replacement process.

You should also monitor your credit report for suspicious activity. You can request a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) once per year at annualcreditreport.com. If you see fraudulent accounts or inquiries, you can place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the bureaus to prevent further misuse.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with just the temporary paper license?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and is recognized by law enforcement as a legal driving document in Georgia. You can use it to drive, rent a car, or show proof of licensure until your permanent license arrives.

What if I never receive my replacement license in the mail?

If 10 business days have passed and you have not received your license, contact your local DDS office to check the status. Provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number. If the license was lost in the mail, DDS can issue another one. You may need to return to the office in person to request a reissue.

Do I need to take a new photo or vision test for a replacement?

Yes, you will have a new photo taken at the DDS office. You do not need to take a vision test or written exam for a replacement license — those are only required for a new license or renewal after expiration.

Will my replacement license have the same expiration date as my original?

Yes, unless you choose to renew your license at the same time. Your replacement will expire on the same date as your original license. If your original license was close to expiring, you can renew it during the replacement process for an additional fee.

What if I lost my license and my address changed at the same time?

Bring proof of your new address to the DDS office. The examiner will update your address during the replacement process at no extra cost. Your new license will be mailed to your updated address.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.