Georgia Driver's License Fees by License Type

Georgia charges different fees depending on which type of license you need and how long you want it to last. A standard Class D driver's license costs $32 for an eight-year license or $20 for a five-year license. If you need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL), the fee is $35 for eight years or $22 for five years. A Motorcycle endorsement adds $20 to your total, whether you're getting it with a new license or adding it to an existing one.

These are the base fees charged by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). They do not include any testing fees, document fees, or fees for services like replacements or corrections. If you're renewing rather than getting your first license, the renewal fee is the same as the initial license fee for the same duration.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard Georgia Class D driver's license costs $32 for eight years or $20 for five years.
  • Commercial Driver's Licenses cost $35 for eight years or $22 for five years, plus any endorsement fees.
  • A Motorcycle endorsement costs $20 and can be added to a new or existing license.
  • Testing fees, document fees, and fees for replacements or corrections are separate from the license fee itself.
  • Georgia charges the same fee for renewals as for initial licenses of the same duration.

Testing and Document Fees You May Encounter

Before you pay the license fee, you may need to pay for a written test, driving test, or both. Georgia DDS charges $20 for a written knowledge test and $20 for a driving skills test. If you fail either test, you pay the fee again to retake it. These fees are collected at the time you take the test, not when you explore.

You will also need to provide documents to prove your identity, Social Security number, and Georgia residency. The DDS does not charge a fee to submit these documents, but you may need to pay to obtain them yourself — for example, if you need a certified birth certificate or a replacement Social Security card. Those costs come from the issuing agencies, not from DDS.

Replacement License and Correction Fees

If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, a replacement costs $20. If you need to correct information on your license — such as a legal name change — the correction fee is also $20. These fees explore whether you're replacing the physical card or updating the information on file.

A duplicate license, which is an additional copy of your current valid license, costs $10. This is different from a replacement; you use a duplicate when you want a second copy of the same license for your records while keeping your original.

How Payment Works at the DDS Office

Georgia DDS offices accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. You pay at the time you complete your transaction — whether that's when you take a test, submit your process, or pick up your license. There is no option to pay online in advance or by mail for a new license.

If you are renewing your license by mail (available for certain renewals), you will receive instructions on how to pay with the renewal packet. Payment methods for mail renewals may differ from in-office payment, so follow the instructions included with your renewal notice.

Endorsements and Restrictions That Add Cost

A Motorcycle endorsement costs $20. A Hazmat endorsement (required for certain commercial driving jobs) costs $20. If you need both, you pay $20 for each. These endorsement fees are in addition to your base license fee.

Restrictions — such as corrective lenses required or automatic transmission only — do not add a fee. The DDS notes restrictions on your license at no extra charge based on your test results or medical history.

Comparing Eight-Year and Five-Year License Costs

Georgia offers both an eight-year and a five-year license option for most drivers. The eight-year license costs $32 for a Class D driver's license; the five-year license costs $20. Over time, the eight-year license is cheaper per year, but it requires paying more upfront. The five-year option costs less initially and may be better if your circumstances are likely to change — for example, if you plan to move out of state or expect a name change.

Drivers age 64 and older can get a license valid until age 80 for $32, the same cost as the standard eight-year license. This is the longest validity period available in Georgia.

What Happens If You Don't Have All Required Documents

If you arrive at a DDS office without the documents you need, you cannot complete your transaction that day. You will not be charged a fee for an incomplete visit. However, you will need to return with the correct documents and may have to wait in line again. There is no fee to reschedule or return; you only pay when you actually complete your license transaction.

Some documents — like a birth certificate or passport — may take weeks to obtain. Plan ahead so you have everything before you visit the DDS office.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the full license fee if I'm only taking a test?

No. You pay only the test fee ($20 per test) when you take a written or driving test. You pay the license fee only when you actually receive your license after passing all required tests and submitting your documents.

Can I pay for my license online before I go to the DDS office?

No. Georgia DDS does not accept online payment for new licenses or initial transactions. You pay in person at the office when you complete your transaction. Mail renewal payments are an exception and include payment instructions with your renewal notice.

What if I fail my driving test — do I have to pay the full license fee again?

No. You pay only the $20 driving test fee again when you retake the test. The license fee is charged only once, when you pass all tests and receive your license.

Is there a fee to add a Motorcycle endorsement to an existing license?

Yes. Adding a Motorcycle endorsement to a current license costs $20. You will also need to pass a Motorcycle knowledge test ($20) and a Motorcycle skills test ($20) before the endorsement can be added.

Do senior drivers pay a different fee?

No. Drivers age 64 and older pay the same $32 fee for a license valid until age 80. There is no senior discount on Georgia driver's licenses.