The documents and steps Georgia requires

To get a driver's license in Georgia, you need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, your Social Security number, and proof that you are a Georgia resident. You will also pass a written test, a vision test, and a road test. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) handles all licenses, and you explore in person at a DDS office.

The process is different depending on whether you are a first-time driver, moving to Georgia from another state, or renewing an expired license. This guide covers what a first-time Georgia driver needs to bring and do.

Key Takeaways

  • You must bring a valid photo ID, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents showing your Georgia address to any DDS office.
  • Georgia requires you to pass a written knowledge test, a vision screening, and a practical road test before you receive your license.
  • You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit and at least 17 to get an unrestricted Class D license.
  • The road test must be taken in a vehicle registered in Georgia, and you cannot use a vehicle with a salvage or rebuilt title.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies—photocopies alone will not be accepted.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Georgia requires you to bring an original or certified copy of each document. Photocopies are not accepted. You need one document that proves your identity and is a valid photo ID. This can be a U.S. passport, a passport card, a military ID, a school photo ID issued by a Georgia school, or a work ID issued by a Georgia employer.

You also need proof of your Social Security number. This can be your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, a tax return, or a document from the Social Security Administration. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you go to DDS.

Finally, you need two documents that prove you live in Georgia. These can include a utility bill, a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank statement, an insurance policy, or a government check. The documents must show your name and current Georgia address, and they cannot be more than two months old.

Age requirements and permit-to-license progression

You must be at least 16 years old to get a learner's permit in Georgia. With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old is in the front passenger seat. You must hold the permit for at least 12 months and one day before you can take the road test for a full license.

You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted Class D driver's license. If you are 16 or 17, you can get a Class CP (Commercial Learner's Permit) or a Class D license with restrictions, but the restrictions lift once you turn 18. The restrictions include limits on nighttime driving and the number of passengers you can carry.

The written test and vision screening

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

The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You do not need to bring glasses or contacts, but you must wear them during the test if you normally wear them while driving. If you fail the vision screening, DDS will tell you what to do next—usually you will need to see an eye doctor and bring a vision form signed by that doctor on your next visit.

The road test: what to expect and what disqualifies you

The road test takes about 20 minutes. A DDS examiner will sit in the passenger seat while you drive on public roads near the DDS office. The examiner watches how you handle the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to other drivers and pedestrians. You must pass the written test and vision screening before you can take the road test.

You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Georgia and insured. The vehicle cannot have a salvage title or a rebuilt title. The examiner will check that the vehicle has working brakes, headlights, taillights, turn signals, windshield wipers, and a horn. If any of these do not work, you cannot take the test that day.

You can take the road test only if you have held your learner's permit for at least 12 months and one day. If you fail the road test, you can schedule another attempt, but you must wait at least one day before retesting.

What happens after you pass all three tests

Once you pass the written test, vision screening, and road test, DDS will issue your Class D driver's license on the spot. Your license will be valid for eight years. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and your plastic card in the mail within two weeks.

If you are under 18, your license will have restrictions until you turn 18. These restrictions include no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. (except for work, school, or medical reasons) and no more than three passengers under 21 years old in the vehicle. Once you turn 18, the restrictions are lifted automatically and you do not need to renew your license.

Moving to Georgia from another state

If you already have a valid driver's license from another state, you do not need to take the written test or road test again. You can exchange your out-of-state license for a Georgia license by bringing your current license, proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number to any DDS office. Georgia will issue you a new license valid for eight years.

If your out-of-state license is expired, you will need to take the written test and road test. Bring the same documents as a first-time driver, plus your expired license.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take the road test in a vehicle that is not registered in my name?

Yes. The vehicle must be registered in Georgia and insured, but it does not have to be registered in your name. The owner or a family member can bring the vehicle for you to use during the test. The vehicle still cannot have a salvage or rebuilt title.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the written test the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts. You will need to pay the test fee each time you take it. Study the Georgia Driver's Manual before your next attempt.

Do I need to bring my Social Security card, or can I bring something else?

You do not have to bring your Social Security card. You can bring a W-2, a 1099, a tax return, or a document from the Social Security Administration instead. Any one of these counts as proof of your Social Security number.

What if my address on my ID does not match my current Georgia address?

Bring two documents that show your current Georgia address, such as a utility bill or lease. DDS will use those documents as proof of residency even if your ID shows a different address. Make sure the documents are dated within the last two months.

How long does it take to get my plastic license card in the mail?

DDS usually mails your plastic card within two weeks of the day you pass all three tests. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while you wait. If you do not receive your card within three weeks, contact DDS to check the status.