Where to go for a driver's license in Augusta

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in Augusta is located at 3001 Washington Road, Augusta, GA 30907. This is the only full-service DDS location in Augusta where you can take your written test, road test, and get your license issued on the same day if you pass both exams.

The office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and closed on state holidays. You cannot walk in without an appointment — Georgia DDS requires you to book a time slot before you arrive. You can schedule online at the Georgia DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400.

If you cannot reach the main office, the Georgia DDS customer service line at 844-900-3437 can help you find appointment availability or answer questions about what documents you need to bring.

Key Takeaways

  • The Augusta DDS office is at 3001 Washington Road and requires an appointment — you cannot walk in without one.
  • You must bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN to get a license.
  • Georgia offers both a standard driver's license and a REAL ID-compliant license; REAL ID costs more but works for federal building entry and domestic flights.
  • You can take your written test and road test on the same day if you schedule both, but you must pass the written test before taking the road test.
  • If you are under 18, you need a parent or guardian present and must have held a learner's permit for at least 12 months before taking the road test.

What documents you need to bring

Georgia requires you to bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. You need proof of identity (a passport, military ID, or certified birth certificate), proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or ITIN.

If you are getting a REAL ID license, you must also bring proof that your name has not changed since your identity document was issued. If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Bring your current out-of-state license if you have one. If you are renewing a Georgia license, bring that card. The office staff can tell you during your appointment booking whether you need any additional documents based on your specific situation.

Standard license versus REAL ID in Georgia

Georgia offers two types of driver's licenses: a standard license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The standard license works for driving and state identification but does not meet federal requirements for entering federal buildings or boarding domestic flights without additional ID.

A REAL ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and costs $5 more than a standard license. It meets federal standards set by the Department of Homeland Security and works for TSA airport screening and federal building entry. Most people in Augusta get the REAL ID version because the extra cost is small and the document lasts longer.

You choose which type when you book your appointment. If you are unsure which you need, ask during your appointment call — the DDS staff can explain the difference based on your plans.

Taking your written and road tests

The written test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Georgia DDS Driver's Manual, which is free online. The test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per appointment.

If you pass the written test, you can take the road test the same day if you have an appointment scheduled for it. The road test lasts about 20 minutes and covers basic driving skills like parking, turning, and following traffic laws. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

If you fail either test, you must schedule a new appointment to try again. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you cannot take the same test twice in one day.

Requirements if you are under 18

Georgia requires anyone under 18 to hold a learner's permit for at least 12 months before taking a road test. During that time, you must drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old. You also need a parent or legal guardian present at the DDS office when you take your road test.

If you are 16 or 17, you can get a learner's permit at the Augusta DDS office. You must pass the written test and bring the same documents as someone getting a full license. Once you have held the permit for 12 months and are ready for the road test, you schedule a new appointment and bring your parent or guardian with you.

Fees and payment methods

A standard Georgia driver's license costs $32 and is valid for eight years. A REAL ID license costs $37 and is also valid for eight years. If you are 65 or older, a license costs $16 and is valid for eight years. These prices do not include the written or road test fees, which are included in the license fee.

The Augusta DDS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. You pay at the office after you pass both tests and your license is approved. If you fail a test, you pay only for the test itself, not the full license fee.

What to expect during your visit

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early with all your documents. The staff will verify your identity and residency, take your photo, and collect your fee. You will then go to a testing station for the written test. If you pass, you move to the road test area, where an examiner will inspect your vehicle and take you on a short drive around Augusta.

The entire process usually takes two to three hours if you take both tests in one appointment. If you pass both, your license is printed at the office and you leave with it the same day. If you fail the written test, you can schedule another appointment to retake it. If you fail the road test, you must schedule a new appointment for that test alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I schedule my appointment online or do I have to call?

You can schedule online through the Georgia DDS website or by calling 678-413-8400. Online scheduling is usually faster, but if the website is down or you have questions about which appointment type you need, calling works just as well.

What if I fail my road test?

You can schedule another road test appointment as soon as you want. There is no waiting period. You do not have to retake the written test unless your learner's permit or written test score has expired. Bring the same vehicle and documents when you come back.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card?

No. You need your Social Security number, but you can provide it verbally or on a form at the office. Bring a document that shows your number, like a tax return or W-2, if you do not know it by heart. A Social Security card itself is not required.

Can I get a license the same day I explore?

Yes, if you pass both the written and road tests. Your license is printed at the office and you leave with it. If you only take the written test or fail either test, you will need to come back for another appointment.

What if I moved to Augusta from another state?

You must get a Georgia license within 30 days of moving. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of residency in Augusta (utility bill or lease), and your identity documents. You will take the written test but may not need to take the road test if your out-of-state license is valid — ask the DDS staff when you call to schedule.