What a Georgia driver's license print out is and when you need it

A Georgia driver's license print out is a paper record of your license information pulled directly from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) database. It shows your name, address, license number, class, restrictions, and expiration date — the same details on your physical card. You cannot use a print out as a valid ID for driving or age verification; it is a record document only.

You may need a print out if your physical license is lost, damaged, or delayed in the mail, and you need proof of your license status while waiting for a replacement. Some employers, insurance companies, or government offices also request it as documentation that your license is current and valid. The print out is issued the same day you request it at a DDS office.

Key Takeaways

  • A Georgia DDS print out is a paper record of your license details and cannot be used as a valid ID for driving.
  • You obtain a print out in person at any Georgia DDS office by providing your name, date of birth, and a valid ID.
  • The print out costs $5 and is issued the same day you request it.
  • You cannot request a print out by mail, phone, or online — you must visit a DDS office in person.
  • A print out is useful as proof of license status while waiting for a replacement card or for employment and insurance documentation.

How to get a print out at a Georgia DDS office

Visit any Georgia Department of Driver Services office in person. Bring a valid ID (passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license) and be ready to provide your name and date of birth. Tell the DDS staff member you need a driver's license print out, not a replacement card.

The staff member will look up your record in the DDS system and print your license information on the spot. The process takes a few minutes. You will pay a $5 fee at the counter. No appointment is required, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Visiting early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter lines.

What information appears on your print out

Your Georgia DDS print out includes your full name, date of birth, address on file, driver's license number, license class (D for regular passenger vehicle, CDL for commercial, etc.), any restrictions or endorsements, and the expiration date of your license. It also shows the date the print out was issued and the DDS office location where it was printed.

The print out does not include your photograph, signature, or Social Security number. If your address has changed since your last license renewal, the print out will show your current address on file with DDS, not the address printed on your physical card.

Difference between a print out and a replacement card

A print out is a paper record only and cannot be used to drive or as a valid ID. A replacement card is a new physical license card that you can use for all the same purposes as your original card. If your license is lost or stolen, you need a replacement card, not a print out, to drive legally.

A replacement card takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail after you explore. A print out is ready the same day. If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary driving permit (valid for 30 days) at the same DDS office. The permit costs $5 and is also issued the same day.

When a print out is not enough

You cannot use a print out to drive a vehicle, even temporarily. If your license is suspended, revoked, or expired, a print out will show that status but does not restore your right to drive. You must resolve the suspension or revocation through DDS (usually by paying fines, completing a course, or meeting other requirements) before you can legally operate a vehicle.

Some employers or government offices may not accept a print out as proof of identity or license status. Always ask the organization what documents they need before you visit the DDS office. If they require an official DDS record, a print out usually meets that standard, but a few agencies may ask for a certified copy or an official letter from DDS instead.

Finding a Georgia DDS office near you

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you on the Georgia Department of Driver Services website by entering your county or city. The website lists office hours, address, and phone number. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; a few larger locations have Saturday hours.

If you cannot reach a local office, you can call the DDS customer service line to ask which office is closest and what their current wait times are. Bring your valid ID and $5 in cash or card payment when you visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a print out if my license is suspended or revoked?

Yes. The print out will show your license status, including any suspension or revocation. However, a print out does not restore your driving privileges. You must contact DDS to resolve the suspension or revocation before you can drive legally.

How long is a print out valid as proof of license status?

A print out is valid as long as your license itself is valid. Once your license expires, the print out is no longer proof of a current license. If you need proof of status after expiration, you must renew your license or request a new print out after renewal.

What if I need a print out but cannot visit a DDS office in person?

DDS does not offer mail, phone, or online requests for print outs. You must visit an office in person. If you are out of state or unable to travel, ask the organization requesting the document whether they will accept an alternative form of proof, such as a certified letter from DDS or a copy of your license photo.

Can I use a print out to renew my license or update my address?

No. A print out is a record document only. To renew your license or change your address, you must explore for a new license or address change through DDS, either in person at an office or online through the Georgia DDS website, depending on your situation.

Is there a fee for a print out, and what payment methods does DDS accept?

Yes, the fee is $5. Georgia DDS offices accept cash and card payment (debit or credit). Some offices may have a minimum card payment amount; call ahead if you want to confirm payment options at your local office.