How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

Where to renew your Georgia license and what documents you need

You can renew your Georgia driver's license in person at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Georgia DDS website. The method you choose depends on whether your license is still valid, how much time you have, and whether you need to update your address or other information.

If you renew in person, bring your current Georgia driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If your address has changed, the address proof is required. If you are renewing by mail, you will need to submit your current license along with the renewal form and payment.

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website is the fastest option if you are may be able to access. You can renew online if your license is not expired, you have no medical conditions that would restrict your driving, and you do not need to change your address or photograph. The online process takes about 10 minutes and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

Georgia offers three renewal methods: in-person at a DDS office, by mail, or online through the Georgia DDS website, each with different may be able to access rules.
In-person renewal requires your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address if it has changed.
Online renewal is the fastest option but only works if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you are not changing your address or photo.
Mail renewal takes longer than online but does not require a trip to a DDS office if your circumstances have not changed significantly.
Renewal fees in Georgia vary by license type and validity period; check the DDS website for the current fee before you visit or submit payment.

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website

The Georgia DDS website allows you to renew online if your license is still valid and you meet the may be able to access requirements. Go to the Georgia DDS website, select "Renew Your License," and follow the prompts. You will need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (credit card or debit card).

Online renewal does not include a new photograph, so your current photo will remain on your license. If you want a new photo, you must renew in person. The new license will be mailed to the address on file, so if you have moved recently, update your address through the DDS website before you renew online, or renew in person instead.

Processing time for online renewal is typically 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit your payment. Your old license remains valid until your new one arrives, so you can continue to drive legally during this period.

In-person renewal at a DDS office

Visiting a DDS office in person is necessary if your license has expired, you need a new photograph, you are changing your address, or you have medical conditions that require a vision test or other screening. DDS offices are located throughout Georgia; you can find the office nearest you on the Georgia DDS website by entering your county or city.

Bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. If you do not have a current address proof, bring two documents that show your name and address, such as a lease, mortgage statement, or utility bill. The office will take a new photograph and process your renewal on the spot. You will receive a temporary license to use while your permanent license is mailed to you.

Wait times at DDS offices vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less busy on weekday mornings and mid-week. You can check wait times on the Georgia DDS website before you go. In-person renewal usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing by mail

Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired and you do not need to change your photograph or address. You will need to complete the renewal form (available on the Georgia DDS website), include your current license, and mail both along with your payment to the address listed on the form.

Mail renewal takes longer than in-person or online renewal. Processing time is typically 2 to 3 weeks from the date the DDS receives your materials, plus the time it takes for mail to travel to and from the office. Your old license remains valid during this time, so you can continue to drive legally.

If you choose mail renewal, make a copy of your current license before you send it in, in case there are questions about your process. Send your materials by certified mail if you want confirmation that the DDS received your package.

Renewal fees and payment methods

Georgia driver's license renewal fees depend on the type of license and the validity period you choose. Standard renewal fees are lower than the cost of an initial license. You can pay by credit card, debit card, or check (by mail only). Online and in-person renewal accept credit and debit cards. Mail renewal accepts checks or money orders.

Check the Georgia DDS website for the current renewal fee before you renew, as fees may change. If you renew online or in person, you will pay at the time of renewal. If you renew by mail, include your payment with your process.

What happens if your license has already expired

If your Georgia driver's license has expired, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must renew in person at a DDS office. Driving with an expired license is illegal in Georgia, even if you have applied for renewal.

When you renew an expired license in person, bring the same documents you would bring for a standard renewal: your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address. The DDS will take a new photograph and issue you a temporary license to use when ready while your permanent license is mailed to you.

If your license expired more than a certain period ago (check the Georgia DDS website for the current timeframe), you may need to retake the written test or vision test, or both. The DDS office will tell you what is required when you arrive.

Address changes and other updates

If you have moved since your license was issued, you must update your address. You can change your address online through the Georgia DDS website without renewing your license, or you can update it when you renew. If you change your address online, your license itself will not change, but your record with the DDS will be updated.

If you are renewing in person and your address has changed, bring proof of your new address. If you are renewing online, you can update your address through the website before you complete the renewal. If you are renewing by mail, include a note with your new address or update it separately online.

Other changes, such as a name change due to marriage or legal action, require in-person renewal and additional documents (such as a marriage certificate or court order). You cannot make these changes online or by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Georgia license if I live out of state?

Yes. You can renew by mail or online if you meet the may be able to access requirements (your license is not expired, you do not need a new photo, and you are not changing your address). If you need to change your address to an out-of-state address, you can do so online or by mail without renewing your license first.

How long does a renewed Georgia license last?

A renewed Georgia driver's license is valid for 8 years for drivers under 65 and 5 years for drivers 65 and older. When you renew, you can choose the standard validity period or a shorter one if you prefer.

What if I lost my license and need to renew?

If your license is lost or stolen, you cannot renew by mail or online. You must visit a DDS office in person to report the loss and receive a replacement. Bring proof of your identity and Social Security number. A replacement license costs less than a renewal and is processed on the spot.

Can I renew my license before it expires?

Yes. Georgia allows you to renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewing early does not shorten the validity of your new license; your new license will still be valid for the full 8 years (or 5 years if you are 65 or older) from the date of renewal.

What if my name has changed since my license was issued?

You must renew in person at a DDS office and bring legal documentation of your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You cannot change your name by mail or online renewal.

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.