How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

Where to renew and what you need before you start

You can renew your Georgia driver's license in person at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the Georgia DDS website. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid, whether you need a new photo, and how soon you need the renewed license in hand.

Before you go anywhere or submit anything, gather these documents: your current Georgia driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). If you are renewing in person, bring the originals. If you are mailing documents, send copies, not originals.

The renewal fee is $32 for a four-year license or $64 for an eight-year license. You pay at the time of renewal, whether you renew online, by mail, or in person. Georgia does not accept payment by phone or email.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website takes about 10 minutes and costs $32 for a four-year license, but you must have a valid license and cannot change your photo or address.
Mail renewal is an option if your license is not expired and you do not need a new photo, though it takes two to three weeks from the time DDS receives your envelope.
In-person renewal at a DDS office lets you update your photo, address, or other information, and you walk out with a temporary license the same day.
You must bring your current license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your address dated within the last 60 days to any in-person appointment.
DDS offices operate by appointment only; walk-ins are not accepted, so you must schedule online or by phone before you arrive.

Renewing online if your license is still valid

Online renewal is the fastest option if your Georgia driver's license has not expired and you do not need to change your photo or address. 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 (debit or credit card).

The system will ask you to confirm your personal information and choose your license term: four years ($32) or eight years ($64). You cannot upload a new photo or change your address online. If you need either of those, you must renew in person instead. Once you complete the online transaction, your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Renewing by mail for unchanged information

Mail renewal works if your license is not expired, your address has not changed, and you do not need a new photo. Print the renewal form from the Georgia DDS website (Form DL-44), fill it out completely, and mail it with a copy of your current license, a copy of your proof of Social Security number, and a check or money order for $32 (four-year) or $64 (eight-year) made payable to "Georgia DDS."

Mail your envelope to the address listed on the form. Processing takes two to three weeks from the date DDS receives your envelope, not from the date you mail it. Your new license will be mailed to the address on your current license. If you need to track your renewal or confirm receipt, call the DDS customer service line at 678-413-8400.

Renewing in person at a DDS office

In-person renewal is required if you need a new photo, want to change your address, have a name change, or prefer to walk out with a temporary license the same day. All Georgia DDS offices operate by appointment only; you cannot walk in without one. Schedule your appointment online at the Georgia DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400. The phone line is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern time.

Bring your current license, an original or certified copy of your proof of Social Security number, and an original proof of your current address dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable address proofs include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail. Bring your payment method (cash, check, debit card, or credit card) for the renewal fee.

At your appointment, a DDS employee will take your photo, verify your information, and process your renewal. You will receive a temporary license printed on the spot that is valid for 30 days while your permanent license is mailed. Your permanent license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license sooner, ask the DDS employee about expedited mailing options when you renew.

What to do if your license has already expired

If your Georgia driver's license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it—you must reapply as if you were getting a license for the first time. This means taking the written test, the road test, and paying the full process fee. If your license expired within the last two years, you can still renew it by mail or in person using the standard renewal process and fee.

To find out whether your license is still within the renewal window, check the expiration date on your license or call DDS at 678-413-8400. If you are unsure whether you need to renew or reapply, the DDS staff can tell you based on your expiration date.

Choosing between four-year and eight-year licenses

Georgia offers two renewal terms: a four-year license for $32 or an eight-year license for $64. The eight-year license costs twice as much but means you will not need to renew again for eight years instead of four. Both licenses are identical in function and appearance; the only difference is how long they remain valid.

Choose the four-year term if you expect your address or personal information to change soon, or if you prefer to renew more frequently. Choose the eight-year term if your information is stable and you want to avoid the renewal process for longer. You can switch between terms at your next renewal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if I have an outstanding traffic ticket or unpaid fine?

Georgia does not automatically block license renewal for unpaid traffic fines, but some courts may place a hold on your license. Call the court that issued the ticket to ask whether a hold exists. If one does, you must resolve the fine or appear in court before DDS will process your renewal.

What happens if I renew online but then need to change my address?

If you renew online and later need to change your address, you must wait until your new license arrives, then explore for a duplicate license with your updated address at a DDS office. Bring your new license, proof of your new address, and the renewal fee.

How long does a temporary license last?

A temporary license issued at a DDS office is valid for 30 days. Your permanent license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within that window, call DDS at 678-413-8400 to report it.

Can I renew my license if I am out of state?

Yes. You can renew by mail or online if your license is still valid and you do not need to change your photo or address. If you need to update your photo or address, you must renew in person at a Georgia DDS office when you return to the state, or contact DDS to ask about options for military members or others stationed out of state.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document that shows your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). DDS will update your name and issue a new license with your current legal name.

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.