What you need to do to move your license to Georgia

To transfer your driver license to Georgia, you must visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person, bring your current out-of-state license, and pass a vision test. Georgia will not mail you a new license or let you renew by mail if you are moving from another state — you have to appear at an office location. The process takes about 30 minutes, and your new Georgia license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

You do not need to take a written knowledge test or driving skills test if your out-of-state license is valid and not suspended. Georgia recognizes valid licenses from all U.S. states and territories. However, if your license is expired, suspended, or revoked, you will need to follow Georgia's standard licensing process, which includes the written test and road test.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Georgia DDS office in person with your current out-of-state license to transfer; there is no online or mail option for new residents.
  • Georgia requires a vision test but waives the written and driving tests if your out-of-state license is currently valid and not suspended or revoked.
  • Your new Georgia license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the in-person visit.
  • You will need proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease) and proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or W-2) in addition to your current license.
  • Georgia charges a fee for the license transfer, which varies based on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid.

Documents to bring to the DDS office

Bring your current out-of-state driver license, even if it is expired within the last year. You will also need two forms of proof of Georgia residency. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail with your name and current Georgia address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.

You must also prove your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card, W-2 form, 1099 form, or tax return. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a letter from the Social Security Administration. Additionally, bring a form of identification that shows your date of birth, such as a passport or military ID, if your out-of-state license does not clearly display it.

If you have changed your name since your out-of-state license was issued, bring a document proving the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

Georgia DDS office locations and how to schedule

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can find the office nearest you and check its hours on the Georgia DDS website. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Scheduling ahead is faster and reduces wait times, especially in urban areas.

To schedule online, visit the Georgia DDS website, select your county, and choose an available time slot. If you prefer to call, the DDS customer service line can help you find an office and book an appointment. Peak times are typically mid-morning and mid-week; early morning or late afternoon appointments often have shorter waits.

The vision test and what happens at your appointment

At your DDS appointment, you will take a vision screening. You must be able to read a standard eye chart from a distance of 20 feet. If you wear glasses or contacts, you may wear them during the test. If you fail the vision test, you will be asked to see an eye doctor and return with a vision correction certificate before your license can be issued.

The DDS staff will also check your documents, take a new photo for your license, and collect your fee. The entire process usually takes 20 to 30 minutes. You will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to your Georgia address.

License fees and validity periods in Georgia

Georgia charges different fees depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. A standard Class D (passenger vehicle) license costs less than a commercial or motorcycle license. You can choose to renew for 4 or 8 years; the 8-year option costs more upfront but is cheaper per year.

Fees vary slightly by county due to local processing costs, but the state sets the base fee. Check the Georgia DDS website or ask at your appointment for the exact fee for your situation. Most offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards.

What to do if your out-of-state license is suspended or expired

If your out-of-state license is suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year, Georgia will not transfer it. Instead, you must take Georgia's full licensing process: a written knowledge test, a vision test, and a road skills test. You will also need to pay the standard license fee.

If your license was suspended or revoked due to unpaid traffic fines, DUI, or other violations, you may need to clear those issues in your home state before Georgia will issue you a license. Contact the DDS office in your previous state to find out what steps are required. Some violations carry a waiting period before you can obtain a license in a new state.

Real ID compliance and your new Georgia license

When you transfer your license to Georgia, you can choose whether to get a standard license or a Real ID-compliant license. A Real ID license has a gold star in the upper right corner and meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. The Real ID option costs a few dollars more but is useful if you plan to fly domestically or visit federal facilities.

To get a Real ID license, bring the same documents as you would for a standard transfer, plus an original or certified copy of your birth certificate. If you already have a Real ID from your previous state, you do not need to bring your birth certificate again — the DDS can verify your Real ID status in the system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive in Georgia with my out-of-state license while I wait for my Georgia license to arrive?

Yes. The temporary paper license you receive at your DDS appointment is valid for 30 days and counts as proof of a valid Georgia license. You can drive legally during this time. Once your permanent card arrives by mail, the temporary license is no longer needed.

What if I move to Georgia but my out-of-state license does not expire for several years?

You must still transfer your license to Georgia. Georgia law requires you to obtain a Georgia license within 30 days of establishing residency. Driving on an out-of-state license after that period can result in a traffic citation.

Do I need to take a written test if I transfer my license?

No, not if your out-of-state license is currently valid and not suspended. Georgia waives the written and road tests for valid license transfers. You only take the vision test. If your license is expired or suspended, you must pass the written test and road test.

How long does it take to receive my new Georgia license in the mail?

Your new license typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days after your appointment. During busy periods, it may take up to two weeks. You can use your temporary paper license to drive during this time.

What if I have an out-of-country driver license?

Georgia does not transfer licenses from outside the United States. You must take Georgia's full licensing test, including the written test and road test. You may also need an International Driving Permit or a certified English translation of your foreign license, depending on your visa status.