Getting a replacement Georgia driver's license after you lose it

If you've lost your Georgia driver's license, you can replace it at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes in person, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your plastic card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Georgia does not issue replacements by mail or online, so you must visit a DDS office in person. You can find the office nearest you and check wait times on the Georgia DDS website before you go.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Georgia DDS office in person with proof of identity and residency to replace a lost license.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard driver's license, though the cost varies slightly if you hold a commercial license or other endorsement.
  • You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent plastic card within 7 to 10 business days by mail.
  • If your license was lost in another state, you can still replace it at any Georgia DDS office as long as you have the required documents.

Documents you need to bring to the DDS office

Bring one form of primary identification — a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate. If you don't have any of these, you can use two forms of secondary ID instead, such as a Social Security card, bank statement, utility bill, or insurance card.

You also need proof of residency showing your current Georgia address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days will work. If you recently moved, bring the document that shows your new address.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You do not need to bring the lost license itself — the DDS office will look up your record in their system.

The replacement fee and what it covers

A standard Georgia driver's license replacement costs $32. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is $35. These fees cover the plastic card only; the temporary paper license is issued at no additional cost.

Georgia DDS offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards. Some offices may have limits on payment methods, so call ahead if you want to confirm. The fee is non-refundable, even if you later find your original license.

How long the replacement takes and when you'll get it

You will walk out of the DDS office with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. This temporary license has the same legal weight as a plastic license — police will accept it, and you can use it to drive, board a plane, or enter a federal building.

Your permanent plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Mail delivery times vary by location; rural areas may take slightly longer. If you don't receive your card within two weeks, contact the DDS office where you applied.

What to do if you need to drive before your appointment

You can drive legally with just your temporary paper license while you wait for your plastic card. You do not need to schedule an appointment at most Georgia DDS offices — you can walk in during business hours, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

If you want to avoid a long wait, check the Georgia DDS website for real-time wait times at offices near you. Early morning visits (right when the office opens) and mid-week visits typically have shorter lines than afternoons and Fridays.

Replacing a license lost in another state

If you lost your Georgia license while traveling or living out of state, you can still replace it at any Georgia DDS office. You do not need to return to the office where you originally got the license. Bring the same documents — proof of identity, proof of Georgia residency, and your Social Security number — and the process is identical.

If you've moved out of Georgia since you got your license, you may need to transfer your license to your new state instead of replacing it in Georgia. Contact the DDS office in your current state to learn whether you need a new license there.

If your license was suspended or revoked

If your Georgia license was suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward replace it. The DDS system will flag your record, and the office will tell you that you must resolve the suspension or revocation first.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or a DUI conviction. You will need to contact the court or the DDS directly to find out what you owe or what steps you must take. Once the suspension is lifted, you can then replace your license normally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Georgia requires you to replace a lost license in person at a DDS office. You cannot do it online, by mail, or through a third-party service. You must bring original documents and be present to have your photo taken.

What if I lost my license and my Social Security card at the same time?

You can still replace your license without your Social Security card. Bring your proof of identity and residency, and tell the DDS office your Social Security number from memory or bring a document that shows it, such as a tax return or bank statement. If you truly cannot provide it, ask the office whether they can look it up in their system.

Do I need to report my lost license to the police?

No. Reporting a lost license to police is not required in Georgia. However, if you believe your license was stolen and you're concerned about identity theft, you can file a report for your own records. This does not speed up the replacement process.

What if I find my original license after I replace it?

Keep it or destroy it — either is fine. You cannot use both licenses at the same time, and the old one will stop working once your new one is activated. You do not need to return the old license to the DDS office.

How much does it cost to replace a lost commercial driver's license?

A CDL replacement costs $35, compared to $32 for a standard license. If your CDL has endorsements (such as hazmat), the fee remains $35. Bring the same documents as you would for a standard license replacement.