How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

Georgia Driver's License Renewal: What You Need to Do

Georgia allows you to renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. Most people renew online through the Georgia DDS website, which takes about 10 minutes and costs $32 for a four-year license. You are may be able to access to renew online if your license is not expired by more than two years, you have no medical suspensions, and your address on file is current. If you cannot renew online, you must visit a DDS office in person.

The renewal process depends on which method you choose. Online renewal is the fastest route — you pay the fee, verify your information, and receive a temporary digital license when ready. Mail renewal takes 7 to 10 business days after DDS receives your process. In-person renewal is completed the same day you visit the office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

Key Takeaways

You can renew online at dds.georgia.gov if your license expired less than two years ago and you have no medical holds or address changes.
Online renewal costs $32 for a four-year license and takes about 10 minutes; you receive a temporary digital license right away.
If you cannot renew online, you must visit a DDS office in person with your current license, proof of residency, and the $32 renewal fee.
Your new physical license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete renewal, whether you renew online or in person.
If your license has been expired for more than two years, you must take the written test and vision test again at a DDS office.

Renewing Online Through the Georgia DDS Website

Online renewal is available at dds.georgia.gov under the "Renew Your License" section. You will need your current Georgia driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit card or credit card). The system will verify your identity and pull up your current license information.

During the online process, you will confirm your address, emergency contact, and organ donor status. If any information is incorrect, you can update it before you pay. Once you submit payment of $32, the system generates a temporary digital license that you can use when ready on your phone or print out. Your physical license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot renew online if your license has been expired for more than two years, if you have a medical suspension on your record, if you need to change your address, or if you are renewing for the first time after turning 18. In any of these cases, you must visit a DDS office.

Renewing in Person at a DDS Office

To renew in person, visit any Department of Driver Services office in Georgia with your current driver's license, proof of residency, and $32 in cash or card. Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. Bring the original document or a certified copy — a photo is not enough.

At the office, you will complete a DL 44 form (process for Driver's License or Learner's Permit) and submit it with your documents and fee. The staff will take a new photo and verify your information. You will not take a written test or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than two years or you have a medical condition that requires it. Your new license is issued the same day, and you can use it when ready.

Wait times at DDS offices vary widely. Offices in rural areas typically have shorter waits, while offices in Atlanta and other cities can have waits of 30 minutes to two hours during peak times. You can check current wait times on the DDS website before you go. Some offices accept walk-ins only; others use an appointment system. Check your local office's policy before you visit.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is available only if you meet the same requirements as online renewal: your license expired less than two years ago, you have no medical suspensions, and your address is current. You cannot change your address by mail.

To renew by mail, contact the Department of Driver Services at 678-413-8400 or visit dds.georgia.gov to request a mail renewal packet. Fill out the DL 44 form, include a copy of your current license (front and back), and mail everything with a check or money order for $32 to the address provided in the packet. DDS will process your process and mail your new license within 7 to 10 business days of receiving it. This method is slower than online renewal and offers no advantage, so most people choose online instead.

What to Do If Your License Has Been Expired for More Than Two Years

If your Georgia driver's license expired more than two years ago, you cannot renew it. You must explore for a new license, which requires you to visit a DDS office in person, pass a vision test, and pass the written knowledge test. You will also need to provide proof of residency and pay $32.

The written test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, available free on the DDS website. The vision test checks that you can see 20/40 or better with or without glasses. If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day at no additional cost.

Changing Your Address or Name During Renewal

If you need to change your address, you must renew in person at a DDS office. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days), and $32. The staff will update your address in the system and issue a new license the same day.

If you need to change your name, you must provide legal documentation of the name change — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. Bring the original or a certified copy to the DDS office along with your current license and $32. Name changes are processed the same day.

Georgia DDS Office Locations and Hours

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. The main office in Atlanta is located at 959 East Confederate Avenue SE, Atlanta, GA 30315, and is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Regional offices have varying hours; some are open Saturday mornings. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on dds.georgia.gov.

Many offices now use an appointment system. You can schedule an appointment online at dds.georgia.gov or by calling 678-413-8400. Appointments are free and typically available within one to two weeks. Walk-ins are accepted at most offices, but appointment holders are served first.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Georgia requires you to renew in person if you have moved out of state. You must visit a DDS office with your current license, proof of your new address in the other state, and $32. If you cannot travel to Georgia, you may be able to surrender your license and obtain a license in your new state instead.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot renew a suspended or revoked license. You must contact the DDS at 678-413-8400 to find out why your license was suspended and what steps you need to take to restore it. Once your suspension is lifted, you can renew normally.

How long can I drive on my temporary digital license while I wait for the physical one?

Your temporary digital license is valid for 30 days. Your physical license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days, but if it does not, you can use the digital version for up to 30 days. If you need to drive after 30 days and your physical license has not arrived, contact DDS to request a replacement.

Do I need to take a new photo if I renew online?

No. When you renew online, your current photo is used on your new license. If you renew in person, DDS will take a new photo. You cannot request a new photo during online renewal.

What if I lost my current license before renewal?

You cannot renew online if you do not have your current license number. You must visit a DDS office in person with proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or other government ID) and proof of residency. The staff will look up your license information and issue a replacement license with 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.