The Savannah Driver's License Office Locations and Hours

Georgia's driver's license services in Savannah are handled by the Department of Driver Services (DDS), which operates two locations in the area where you can renew, replace, or obtain a license. The main office is located at 7505 Waters Avenue in Savannah, and a second location serves the broader Chatham County area. Both offices handle written tests, road tests, and license issuance, though wait times and available services can differ between locations.

The Waters Avenue location is the primary hub and typically has more staff and testing capacity. Hours are generally Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., though you should confirm current hours before you go because DDS occasionally adjusts schedules. The office closes on state holidays. Arriving early in the morning, especially on Tuesdays through Thursdays, usually means shorter waits than afternoons or Mondays.

You can find the exact address, current hours, and phone number by visiting the Georgia DDS website or calling the Savannah office directly. Having the correct phone number matters because staff can tell you whether a specific service (like road tests) is available that day, and whether you need an appointment or can walk in.

Key Takeaways

  • The main Savannah DDS office is at 7505 Waters Avenue and handles written tests, road tests, and license services Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • You can walk in without an appointment for most services, but road test availability varies by day and fills up quickly, so calling ahead is wise.
  • Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, and any required documents for your specific license type before you arrive.
  • The Georgia DDS website shows real-time wait times at some locations, so you can check before you drive to the office.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on whether you are getting your first license, renewing an existing one, or replacing a lost or damaged license. For a first-time license or learner's permit, bring your Social Security card (or a document showing your Social Security number), proof of your Georgia residency, and a document proving your date of birth and identity—typically a birth certificate or passport.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address, dated within the last 60 days. If you are renewing or replacing a license, you will need your current or expired license plus proof of residency if your address has changed. DDS also accepts an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in place of a Social Security number if you do not have one.

Bring originals or certified copies—photocopies alone are not accepted. If any of your documents are in a language other than English, bring a certified English translation along with the original. Having everything ready before you arrive cuts your time at the office significantly.

Written Test and Road Test Scheduling

The written test (also called the knowledge test) covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take it the same day you visit the office, and it is offered in multiple languages. The test has 40 questions, and you must answer at least 32 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or come back another time.

Road tests are more limited in availability. The Savannah office administers them, but they fill up quickly and may not be available every day. You must have a valid learner's permit and bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and passes a safety inspection (working brakes, lights, wipers, and seat belts). The examiner will test your ability to start the car, drive in traffic, park, and respond to road signs and hazards. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Call the Savannah office before you arrive to ask whether road tests are being scheduled that day and how far out the wait list extends. Some days they may be booked a week or more in advance. If you cannot get a test date that works, ask about other DDS locations in the region—sometimes a nearby office has sooner availability.

Fees and Payment Methods

Georgia DDS charges different fees depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license costs less than a commercial license, and renewal fees differ from first-time issuance fees. Fees also vary based on whether you choose a four-year or eight-year license validity period. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards, though you should confirm accepted payment methods when you call.

If you are getting a learner's permit first, that has a separate fee, and you will pay again when you upgrade to a full license. Ask the staff at the office or check the Georgia DDS website for the exact current fees, since they can change and vary slightly by service.

What to Expect on Your Visit

Arrive with all your documents ready and plan to spend 30 minutes to two hours at the office, depending on how busy it is and which services you need. You will check in at the front desk, receive a number, and wait to be called. Staff will verify your documents, take your photo, and collect your fee. If you are taking the written test, you will be directed to a testing station where you will answer questions on a computer or paper form.

If you are taking a road test, the examiner will meet you in the parking lot or nearby. Bring your vehicle keys, your learner's permit, and proof of insurance. The examiner will inspect the vehicle briefly, then drive with you through local streets and highways to assess your driving skills. After the test, you will receive your results when ready.

If you pass both the written and road tests, you can receive your license the same day or within a few business days, depending on processing time. If you only need to renew or replace an existing license, the process is faster—usually 15 to 30 minutes—and you may walk out with your new license or receive it by mail within two weeks.

Alternatives if the Savannah Office Is Closed or Too Busy

If the Waters Avenue location is too crowded or you cannot reach it during business hours, the second Chatham County DDS location may have shorter waits. You can also visit any other Georgia DDS office statewide—your license is valid regardless of which office issues it. Some smaller towns outside Savannah have DDS offices with shorter wait times, though you may need to drive farther.

Before making a trip to a different location, call ahead to confirm they offer the specific service you need. Not all offices administer road tests, for example. The Georgia DDS website lists all locations and their services, or you can call the main Savannah office and ask for a referral to a less-busy location nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an appointment to visit the Savannah DDS office?

Most services are walk-in only, but road tests often require scheduling in advance because they fill up quickly. Call the office to ask whether appointments are available for your specific need. Some DDS locations now offer online appointment scheduling through the Georgia DDS website.

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the office?

Georgia allows online renewal for some drivers whose licenses are not expired and who meet other requirements. Check the Georgia DDS website to see if you are may be able to access. If you are not, you must visit the office in person.

What if I fail the written test or road test?

You can retake the written test the same day or return another day at no extra cost. For the road test, you will need to schedule another appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake either test, though some people find it helpful to study more or practice driving before trying again.

How long does it take to get my license after I pass the tests?

If you pass both tests, you may receive your physical license the same day or within two weeks by mail. Ask the staff which option applies to you before you leave the office.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

Bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days) along with your current license. The office will update your address and issue a new license with the correct information.