What You Can and Cannot Renew Online in Georgia
Georgia allows you to renew your driver's license online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, but only if you meet specific conditions. You can renew online if your license is still valid or expired no more than two years ago, you have a valid Social Security number on file, and you have not had any address changes since your last renewal. You cannot renew online if you need to change your address, correct your name, add or remove restrictions, or if your license was suspended or revoked.
The online renewal process takes about 10 minutes and costs $32 for a four-year renewal or $48 for an eight-year renewal. Your new physical card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you do not meet the online requirements, you must renew in person at a DDS office.
Key Takeaways
- You can renew online only if your Georgia license is current or expired within the last two years and you have not moved.
- The online renewal fee is $32 for four years or $48 for eight years, paid by debit or credit card during the process.
- You will need your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number to start the online renewal.
- Your new license card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days; you can continue driving on your expired license until it arrives.
- If you have changed your address, name, or have any license restrictions, you must renew in person at a DDS office instead.
Step-by-Step Process for Online Renewal
Start by visiting the Georgia DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. Look for the "Renew Your License Online" link on the homepage. Click it and select "Driver License" as the document type you want to renew. You will then be directed to create or log into your DDS account if you do not already have one.
Enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your identity and pull up your current license information. Review all the details on your screen — name, address, date of birth, and any restrictions or endorsements. If anything is incorrect, stop here and renew in person instead, because you cannot make changes online.
Once you confirm your information is correct, select your renewal term: four years or eight years. Proceed to payment and enter your debit or credit card information. After payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation number on screen and by email. Save or print this confirmation for your records.
Documents and Information You Need Before Starting
Gather these items before you begin the online renewal process. You will need your current Georgia driver's license (or a copy of it showing your license number), your date of birth, and your Social Security number. Have a valid debit or credit card ready for the renewal fee.
Check your address on your license before you start. If you have moved since your last renewal, you cannot complete the renewal online — you must go to a DDS office in person and bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days.
What Happens After You Submit Your Renewal
After you complete the online renewal, the Georgia DDS will mail your new license card to the address on file. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you submit your renewal. You can continue to drive on your expired license until your new card arrives, even though it is technically expired.
If you do not receive your new license within 10 business days, contact the Georgia DDS at 678-413-8400 or visit dds.georgia.gov to check the status of your renewal. Have your confirmation number ready when you call. If your card is lost or damaged in the mail, the DDS can issue a replacement, though you may have to pay an additional fee.
When You Cannot Renew Online and Must Visit an Office
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you cannot renew online. You must visit a DDS office in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test. Bring your current or expired license, proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2), and proof of Georgia residency (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days).
You also must renew in person if you have changed your name since your last renewal. Bring your current license and a certified copy of the document that shows your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. If you need to add a commercial driver's license (CDL) endorsement or correct any other information on your license, in-person renewal is required.
Finding a DDS Office and Making an Appointment
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. Visit dds.georgia.gov and use the office locator tool to find the nearest location to you. Enter your city or county, and the website will show all nearby offices, their hours, and whether they are currently accepting walk-ins or appointments only.
Many DDS offices now require appointments, especially in urban areas. You can schedule an appointment online through the DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400. Walk-in service is still available at some locations, but wait times can be long. Check the office's page before you go to see whether appointments are required.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Do not attempt to renew online if your address has changed. The system will reject your renewal if it detects a mismatch between the address on your license and the address in the DDS database. Update your address in person at a DDS office first, then you can renew online at your next renewal cycle.
Do not wait until your license expires to renew. You can renew online up to six months before your expiration date, which gives you time to receive your new card before the old one expires. If you wait until after expiration, you have only two years to renew online before you must go in person.
Do not assume your renewal is complete just because you received a confirmation email. The confirmation means your payment was processed, but your new card has not been issued yet. If you need to drive before your new card arrives, keep your old license with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Georgia license online if I just moved to Georgia from another state?
No. If you are a new Georgia resident, you must get a Georgia license in person at a DDS office. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Social Security number, proof of Georgia residency (utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and proof of your legal name if different from your previous license. You will take a written test and vision test.
What if I lost my license and need to renew it at the same time?
You cannot renew online if your license is lost. You must visit a DDS office in person and request a replacement license. Bring proof of your Social Security number and proof of Georgia residency. You will pay a replacement fee in addition to the renewal fee.
Can I renew my license online if I have a commercial driver's license (CDL)?
You can renew a standard driver's license online if you meet the other requirements, but you cannot renew a CDL online. CDL renewals must be done in person at a DDS office. Bring your CDL, medical certification form (MCSA-5875), proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency.
How long is my Georgia license valid after I renew it online?
Your new license is valid for either four or eight years from the date you renew, depending on which term you chose during the online process. The expiration date will be printed on your new card when it arrives. You can renew again online up to six months before that expiration date.
What if the online system says I am not may be able to access to renew?
The system will tell you why you are not may be able to access — usually because your address has changed, your license has been expired too long, or there is a flag on your account. Write down the reason and visit a DDS office in person. Bring the documents listed on the DDS website for your specific situation, and staff can help you complete your renewal.