Georgia lets you replace a lost driver's license online through the DDS website, but only if your license is still valid and you haven't reported it stolen
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) offers an online replacement option for lost licenses at dds.georgia.gov. You can order a replacement without visiting a location in person, and the new license arrives by mail in about 7 to 10 business days. The fee is $32, paid by debit or credit card during the online process.
This online path works only if your current license hasn't expired and you haven't filed a police report for theft. If either condition applies, you'll need to visit a DDS location instead. The online system also won't work if your name, address, or other identifying information has changed since your license was issued — those changes require an in-person visit.
Key Takeaways
- Georgia's online replacement service costs $32 and takes 7 to 10 business days for delivery; you need a valid, non-stolen license to use it.
- You must have your Social Security number, current address, and the license number (or date of birth) ready before you start the online order.
- If your license has expired, your name has changed, or you reported it stolen, you cannot use the online system and must visit a DDS office instead.
- The replacement license is mailed to the address on file with DDS, so update your address before ordering if you've moved recently.
What you need before ordering online
Gather your Social Security number, current mailing address, and either your driver's license number or date of birth. You'll also need a debit or credit card to pay the $32 fee. If you don't have your license number handy, DDS can look it up using your date of birth and name during the online process.
Make sure the address on file with DDS matches where you want the replacement sent. If you've moved since your license was issued, log into your DDS account or call the DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400 to update your address first. Ordering a replacement to an old address means waiting longer to receive it and having to request it again.
Steps to order your replacement license online
Go to dds.georgia.gov and look for the "Replace Lost License" or "Order a Replacement License" option in the online services section. You'll be asked to create or log into a DDS account using your email address. The system will ask for your Social Security number, date of birth, and current address to verify your identity.
Once verified, you'll confirm your license information and choose the replacement reason (lost). Review the $32 fee, enter your payment card details, and submit. You'll receive a confirmation number by email. DDS will mail your replacement license to the address on file; tracking is not available, but most licenses arrive within 7 to 10 business days.
When you cannot use the online system
If your license has expired, you must visit a DDS location to renew it rather than replace it — these are different transactions. If you reported your license stolen to police, you cannot order a replacement online; you'll need to bring the police report number to a DDS office. The online system also blocks orders if your name, gender marker, or other core information has changed since your license was issued.
Address changes alone don't block the online process, but name changes do. If you've married, divorced, or legally changed your name, visit a DDS location with your updated legal documents (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The same applies if you need to update your gender marker or correct any other identifying detail.
What happens after you order
DDS processes online orders during business hours, Monday through Friday. Your confirmation email will include your order number; save it in case you need to check status or contact DDS. The replacement license is printed and mailed within 1 to 2 business days of your order, then travels through the postal system for 5 to 8 more days.
If your replacement doesn't arrive within 10 business days, contact DDS at 678-413-8400 with your confirmation number. They can verify the mailing address and resend if needed. Until your replacement arrives, you can use the confirmation email as proof that you've ordered a replacement, though it's not a legal substitute for a physical license.
Visiting a DDS location if you need to go in person
If the online system won't process your order, find your nearest DDS location at dds.georgia.gov under "Locations." Most offices operate Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some offering Saturday hours. Bring your Social Security card or a document with your SSN, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and payment for the $32 replacement fee.
Wait times vary by location and time of day; visiting early in the week or early in the morning usually means shorter lines. If you've reported your license stolen, bring the police report number or a copy of the report. In-person replacements are typically processed the same day, and you can leave with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days while your physical license is mailed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the online system if my license expired last month?
No. An expired license requires a renewal, not a replacement, and renewals must be done in person at a DDS location or through the mail with a renewal form. The online replacement system is only for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses that are still valid.
What if I don't remember my license number?
The online system can look up your license using your date of birth and full name. You'll need to verify your identity with your Social Security number. If the system can't find your record, call DDS at 678-413-8400 and they can provide your license number before you order.
Can I pick up my replacement license at a DDS office instead of waiting for mail?
No. Online orders are mailed only; there's no in-office pickup option. If you need a license faster, visit a DDS location in person and request a temporary paper license while your physical license is printed and mailed.
Do I need to report my license lost to police before ordering online?
You don't have to, but if you believe it was stolen rather than lost, filing a police report is a good idea for your records. If you do file a report, you cannot use the online system; bring the report number to a DDS location instead.
What if my address changed since I got my license?
Update your address with DDS before ordering online. Log into your DDS account or call 678-413-8400. The replacement will be mailed to whatever address is on file, so updating first ensures it goes to the right place.