Where to go and what to bring

You replace your Georgia driver's license at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in the state. Georgia has about 60 locations, including offices in most county seats and larger cities. You can find the office nearest you on the DDS website by entering your county or city.

Before you go, gather these documents: your current driver's license (or state ID), proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current Georgia address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your name has changed since your last license, bring the document that shows the change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

You do not need an appointment at most DDS offices, but some locations now use an online reservation system. Check your local office's page on the DDS website to see if reservations are available or required in your area. Walk-in hours vary by location, so arriving early in the day usually means a shorter wait.

Key Takeaways

  • Visit any Department of Driver Services office in Georgia with your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license valid for eight years, or $20 for a limited-term license if you cannot provide proof of lawful presence.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your new plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was lost, stolen, or damaged, tell the DDS staff — the process is the same, but you may want to report a lost or stolen license to local police first.

What happens during your visit

When you arrive, you will check in at the front desk and take a number. A DDS examiner will call you when it is your turn. Bring all your documents to the window — the examiner will verify your identity, check your Social Security number against state records, and confirm your address.

You will be asked to sit for a new photo. Wear something you are comfortable in; the photo will be used on your license for the next eight years. The examiner will also ask you to sign the back of your new license right there at the counter.

Once everything checks out, you will pay the fee and receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid when ready and works anywhere a regular license does — you can drive, show it as ID, and use it for any purpose. Your new plastic card will arrive at the address you provided, usually within 7 to 10 business days.

Fees and payment methods

A standard eight-year driver's license costs $32. If you are unable to provide proof of lawful presence in the United States, you can get a limited-term license valid for four years for $20. DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards — check with your specific office if you have questions about payment methods.

There are no additional fees for a replacement license. If you need your license sooner than the standard mail time, some DDS offices offer expedited service for an extra charge, but this varies by location. Call your local office to ask whether expedited service is available.

If your license was lost or stolen

The replacement process is identical whether your license is lost, stolen, or straightforward worn out. You do not need a police report to replace it, though you may want to file one if your license was stolen — this creates a record in case someone tries to use your information.

When you arrive at the DDS office, straightforward tell the examiner that your license was lost or stolen. They will note this in the system. Your temporary paper license will work when ready, so you can drive right away while you wait for your new card.

What to do if you cannot find your documents

If you do not have your current license, you can still replace it, but you will need other forms of ID. A passport, military ID, or state ID card will work. If you cannot locate proof of your Social Security number, you can order a replacement Social Security card from the Social Security Administration online or by visiting a local Social Security office — this takes about two weeks.

For proof of address, a utility bill, lease agreement, or recent bank or credit card statement all work. If you have just moved and do not have a document dated within the last 60 days, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on their letterhead confirming your address. Some DDS offices will accept this in place of a dated document.

Renewing versus replacing

A replacement is what you do when your current license is lost, stolen, damaged, or you want a new photo. A renewal is what you do when your license is still valid but approaching its expiration date. Both happen at a DDS office, but renewal can also be done online or by mail if your license is not suspended or revoked.

If your license is straightforward expiring soon and you still have it in your wallet, you can renew it online at the DDS website without visiting an office. Renewal online costs $32 and takes about the same time as a replacement. You would only need to visit an office in person if you want a new photo, need to update your address, or if your license status prevents online renewal.

After your new license arrives

Your new license will arrive at the address you provided during your visit. Check the mail starting about five business days after your visit; most licenses arrive within 7 to 10 business days, but mail times vary. Once it arrives, destroy your temporary paper license — it is no longer valid once your plastic card is in your hands.

If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact your local DDS office. Bring your temporary license and ask them to check the status. They can reissue your license if there was a problem with the mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Replacements must be done in person at a DDS office because you need a new photo and your identity must be verified face-to-face. Online and mail options are only for renewals when your license is still valid and not suspended.

How long can I drive on the temporary paper license?

Your temporary license is valid until your new plastic card arrives, which is usually 7 to 10 business days. After that, you must carry your new plastic license. If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact your local DDS office.

What if I moved to Georgia from another state?

You will need to get a Georgia license, not replace your old one. Visit a DDS office with your out-of-state license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your Georgia address. The process is similar to a replacement, and the fee is the same: $32 for an eight-year license.

Do I need to pass a test to replace my license?

No. A replacement does not require a written test or driving test. You only need to provide your documents and sit for a new photo. Tests are only required if your license was suspended or revoked, or if you are getting a license for the first time.

What if my name changed since my last license?

Bring the document that shows your name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DDS examiner will update your name in the system and your new license will show your current legal name. This is part of the standard replacement process.