Georgia lets you renew your driver's license online if you meet a few conditions
You can renew your Georgia driver's license through the Georgia Department of Driver Services website without visiting an office, but only if your license is not expired and you have not had certain violations or changes since your last renewal. The online process takes about 15 minutes, costs $32, and you will receive your new license by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
Not everyone can use the online route. If your license has already expired, if you need to change your address, if you have had a suspension or revocation, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license, you must go to a Driver Services office in person. The same applies if your name has changed since your last license was issued.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online only if your Georgia driver's license is still valid and you have had no suspensions, revocations, or violations since your last renewal.
- The online renewal costs $32 and takes about 15 minutes; your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method to complete the renewal on the Georgia DDS website.
- If your license has expired, you cannot renew online and must visit a Driver Services office in person instead.
What you need before you start the online renewal
Gather these items before you log into the Georgia DDS website: your current Georgia driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a credit or debit card to pay the $32 renewal fee. You do not need to print anything or upload documents for a standard online renewal.
Make sure your address on file is correct. If you have moved since your last renewal, you cannot complete the online process—you will need to visit a Driver Services office to update your address at the same time. The same rule applies if your name has changed.
Steps to renew online through the Georgia DDS website
Go to the Georgia Department of Driver Services website and select the online renewal option. You will be asked to enter your driver's license number and Social Security number to verify your identity. The system will pull up your current license information and ask you to confirm it is still correct.
Review the vision and medical questions on the form. Answer honestly about any changes to your health or vision since your last renewal. If you answer yes to any medical question, you may be asked to have a doctor complete a form, which would require an in-person visit to finish your renewal.
Enter your payment information and submit. You will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Keep this number for your records. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file.
When your new license arrives and what to do with your old one
Your renewed license will arrive within 7 to 10 business days. It will have a new expiration date, usually eight years from the date of renewal (or five years if you are over 64). Once it arrives, you can begin using it right away.
Destroy your old license or keep it for your records—Georgia does not require you to return it. If you need to drive before your new license arrives, your old license remains valid as long as it has not expired.
What to do if you cannot renew online
If your license has already expired, you cannot use the online renewal process. Instead, you will need to visit a Driver Services office in person and bring your expired license, proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. The in-person renewal takes longer and may cost more if your license has been expired for more than a certain period.
If you have had a suspension, revocation, or serious violation since your last renewal, the online system will tell you that you are not may be able to access and direct you to schedule an appointment at a Driver Services office. The same applies if you need to change your name or address, or if you are renewing a commercial driver's license.
How to find a Driver Services office if you need one
The Georgia DDS website has a location finder where you can search by city or county. Most offices accept walk-ins, but wait times vary. You can also schedule an appointment online through the same website, which usually reduces your wait time to 15 to 30 minutes.
Bring your old license, proof of residency, and your Social Security card or a document with your Social Security number. If you are renewing after an expiration, bring proof that you have passed a vision test within the past 60 days, or be prepared to take one at the office.
Troubleshooting common problems with online renewal
If the system says you are not may be able to access for online renewal, it is usually because your license has expired, you have a suspension or revocation on your record, or your address or name has changed. You cannot override this—you will need to visit an office in person.
If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the Georgia DDS by phone or through their website. Have your confirmation number ready. If your license is lost or stolen in the mail, report it to DDS and they can reissue it, though you may have to pay an additional fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online if it expired more than a year ago?
No. If your license has expired, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office. You will also need to pass a vision test as part of the renewal process.
What if I moved and need to change my address?
You cannot change your address through online renewal. You must visit a Driver Services office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
Do I have to take a new photo for online renewal?
No. The online renewal uses your photo from your current license. Your new license will have the same photo unless you choose to visit an office and request a new one.
How long is my renewed license valid?
Your renewed Georgia driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of renewal. If you are 64 or older, it is valid for five years. The expiration date will be printed on your new license.
What if the payment fails during online renewal?
If your payment is declined, the system will ask you to try again with a different card or payment method. If you continue to have trouble, you can visit a Driver Services office in person to complete your renewal instead.