What You Need to Do to Replace Your Georgia License
To replace a Georgia driver's license, you must visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person with proof of identity and residency. Georgia does not allow online or mail-in replacements for lost, stolen, or damaged licenses. The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready; your plastic card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
The fee for a replacement license is $32 for a standard Class D license. If your license is damaged but not expired, you can request a duplicate at no charge — but DDS must determine that the damage qualifies. Bring the damaged card with you to the office so they can assess it.
Key Takeaways
- You must explore in person at a DDS office with a valid ID and proof of Georgia residency; there is no online or mail option.
- The replacement fee is $32, unless your license is damaged and qualifies for a free duplicate under DDS policy.
- You receive a temporary paper license at the counter and the plastic card by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license was stolen, you do not need a police report to replace it, but you should file one separately if you want a record.
- Bring your Social Security number or an ITIN, as DDS will verify it during the replacement process.
Documents and ID You Must Bring
Bring one form of valid photo ID and one proof of Georgia residency. Your photo ID can be a passport, military ID, or an out-of-state driver's license. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two non-photo documents that together prove your identity — such as a birth certificate and a Social Security card, or a school ID and a bank statement.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current Georgia address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or a letter from a government agency. A piece of mail alone is not enough; it must be an official document from a utility company, financial institution, or government body.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). DDS verifies this information against state records before issuing the replacement. Bring the document that shows your number if you do not have it memorized.
Where to Go and How to Find Your Local DDS Office
Georgia has DDS offices in most counties, but not all. You can visit any DDS office in the state — you do not have to go to the one in your county. The official DDS office locator is at dds.georgia.gov. Enter your city or county name to see which offices are open and their hours.
Many offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, though some now use an online appointment system. Check the office locator or call ahead to see whether your chosen location takes appointments or walk-ins. Wait times vary widely; offices in rural areas often have shorter waits than those in Atlanta or other cities.
Some DDS offices close on certain days or have limited hours. Verify the hours before you go, especially if you are traveling a distance. If an office is temporarily closed for staffing or maintenance, the locator will show that information.
Step-by-Step Process at the DDS Office
- Arrive with your documents: photo ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
- Check in at the front desk or kiosk. Tell the staff member you need a replacement license.
- Complete the DL 44 form (process for Georgia Driver's License). Staff will provide this or you can read it from dds.georgia.gov before you go.
- Have your photo taken. Wear the same clothing you would for a passport photo — no hats, sunglasses, or heavy makeup.
- Pay the $32 fee by cash, debit card, or credit card. Some offices may not accept all payment methods, so bring cash as a backup.
- Receive your temporary paper license at the counter. This is valid for 45 days and allows you to drive while you wait for the plastic card.
- Your permanent plastic license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
If Your License Was Stolen or Lost
You do not need a police report to replace a stolen or lost Georgia license. DDS will issue a replacement based on your identity documents alone. However, if you want a record of the theft or loss — for insurance purposes or to protect against identity theft — you should file a report with your local police department separately. This is optional but recommended if you are concerned about fraud.
When you explore for the replacement, tell the DDS staff that the license was stolen or lost. They will note this in your file. If you later discover fraudulent activity linked to your old license number, you will have documentation that you reported it missing.
What Happens If Your License Is Damaged
If your license is cracked, faded, or otherwise damaged but still readable, you may be able to get a free duplicate instead of paying the $32 replacement fee. Bring the damaged card to the DDS office and ask staff to assess whether it qualifies. The decision is made by the staff member at the counter; there is no formal appeal process if they decline.
Common damage that qualifies for a free duplicate includes a cracked or split card, severe fading that makes the photo or information unreadable, or water damage. Minor wear, scratches, or a slightly bent card may not may have access to. If DDS denies the free duplicate, you can pay $32 for a replacement.
Timeline and What to Expect After You Leave
Your temporary paper license is valid for 45 days from the date of issue. Use this to drive while you wait for your plastic card. The plastic card is mailed to the address on file in your DDS record, not necessarily the address you provided on the process. If you have moved recently, update your address in the DDS system before you explore, or the card may go to an old address.
If your plastic card does not arrive within 10 business days, contact DDS at 678-413-8400 or visit dds.georgia.gov to check the status. Provide your driver's license number or Social Security number. DDS can reissue the card if it was lost in the mail, though this may take another 7 to 10 days.
Once your plastic card arrives, the temporary paper license is no longer valid. Destroy it or keep it for your records — you do not need to return it to DDS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my Georgia license if it is expired?
Yes. A replacement license is a new license, so it will be valid for eight years from the date of issue, regardless of when your old license expired. You do not need to renew first; replacement and renewal are separate processes.
What if I moved out of state but still have a Georgia license?
You cannot replace a Georgia license if you no longer live in Georgia. DDS requires proof of current Georgia residency. If you have moved, you must obtain a license from your new state instead.
Do I need to bring my old license to get a replacement?
No. If your license is lost or stolen, you do not have it to bring. If it is damaged, bring it so DDS can assess whether it qualifies for a free duplicate. Otherwise, it is not required.
How much does a replacement cost if I lost my license multiple times?
Each replacement costs $32, regardless of how many times you have replaced it before. There is no penalty fee or limit on the number of replacements you can request. However, if DDS suspects fraud or repeated intentional loss, they may investigate.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must explore in person at the DDS office. Once your plastic card arrives by mail, anyone at your address can open it, but the process itself requires your presence.