The Georgia Department of Driver Services is where you get your license
You get your Georgia driver's license from the Department of Driver Services (DDS), which is part of the Georgia Department of Revenue. DDS runs all the locations where you take your written test, road test, and pick up your physical license. You cannot get a Georgia license from any other state agency or private business — DDS is the only place.
Georgia has two main ways to visit DDS: you can go to a local Driver Services office in person, or you can use an approved third-party testing location for your road test. Both routes lead to the same Georgia license, but they work differently and have different wait times.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Department of Driver Services operates all official licensing locations, and you must visit one to take your written test, road test, and receive your license card.
- Driver Services offices are spread across Georgia's counties, and you can find the one nearest you and check its hours on the DDS website.
- Third-party testing locations run by private companies can administer your road test, but you still take your written test at a DDS office.
- You need to bring specific documents to any DDS location: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
- Wait times at DDS offices vary by location and time of day, so arriving early or scheduling an appointment online can reduce your time in line.
Finding a Driver Services office near you
Georgia has Driver Services offices in most counties. To find the one closest to you, go to the official DDS website (dds.georgia.gov) and use their office locator tool. You can search by county or city, and the tool shows you the address, phone number, and hours for each location.
Office hours vary. Most locations are open Monday through Friday during business hours, but some have extended evening hours or Saturday appointments. Check your local office's schedule before you go — you do not want to arrive and find it closed.
Some offices are busier than others. Offices in larger cities or suburbs tend to have longer waits, especially during lunch hours and late afternoon. If you have a choice of locations, calling ahead to ask about current wait times can save you hours.
What documents to bring to any DDS location
You must bring original documents — photocopies do not work. You need three things: proof of identity, proof of Georgia residency, and your Social Security number or ITIN.
For proof of identity, DDS accepts a U.S. passport, a military ID, a birth certificate, or a school ID paired with another document. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current Georgia address. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days.
If you do not have your Social Security card, bring the number itself — you can write it on an process form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you can use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Bring documentation of whichever one you have.
Taking your written test at a DDS office
Your written test happens at a Driver Services office, not at a third-party location. The test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can take the test on a computer or on paper, depending on what the office offers.
You get to take the test up to three times if you do not pass on your first attempt. If you fail all three times, you have to wait seven days before you can start over. Most people pass on the first or second try if they study the Georgia Driver's Manual beforehand — the manual is free on the DDS website and covers everything on the test.
Once you pass your written test, you get a permit that lets you practice driving with a licensed adult. You cannot take your road test the same day — you have to wait at least one day after passing the written test.
Taking your road test at a DDS office or third-party location
Your road test can happen at a Driver Services office or at an approved third-party testing location. Both are run by DDS-certified examiners, and both tests are identical. The difference is convenience and wait time.
At a DDS office, you schedule a road test appointment through the DDS website or by calling your local office. Wait times for appointments vary — some offices have openings within days, others within weeks. You bring your permit, your vehicle, and proof of insurance.
Third-party testing locations are private companies licensed by DDS to give road tests. They often have more appointment slots available and shorter wait times than DDS offices. To find one near you, search "DDS third-party testing Georgia" or ask your local Driver Services office for a list. You pay a fee to the third-party location (in addition to your DDS fees), but you may get tested sooner.
Getting your physical license card after you pass
Once you pass your road test, you do not leave with a license in hand. Instead, DDS mails your physical license card to the address you provided. The card usually arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take longer during busy periods.
While you wait for your card, you can drive legally using your road test pass receipt as proof. Keep that receipt with you — it is your temporary license. If you need to drive before your card arrives and you lose the receipt, contact your local Driver Services office right away.
If your card does not arrive within two weeks, call your local DDS office or check the DDS website to see if there was a problem with your address or process. Mistakes happen, and DDS can reissue your card if needed.
Paying DDS fees at any location
DDS charges separate fees for your written test, road test, and license card. The exact amounts vary slightly, but as of now, the written test costs around $20, the road test costs around $20, and your license card costs around $32. These are state fees that go to DDS, not to the office itself.
Most Driver Services offices take cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some locations may have limits on payment methods, so call ahead if you want to be sure. If you use a third-party testing location, they may charge an additional fee on top of the DDS fees — ask when you schedule your appointment.
If you cannot afford the fees all at once, you can take your written test first, then schedule your road test for a later date when you have the money. There is no time limit between passing your written test and taking your road test (as long as your permit is still valid).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I schedule an appointment online at a Driver Services office?
Yes. The DDS website lets you schedule appointments for your written test and road test at most locations. You can also call your local office to book an appointment by phone. Scheduling ahead usually means a shorter wait than walking in without an appointment.
What if I fail my road test?
You can retake it. There is no limit on how many times you can take the road test, but you have to schedule a new appointment and pay the road test fee again each time. Most people pass on their second or third attempt.
Do I have to go to the same DDS office every time?
No. You can take your written test at one office and your road test at a different one, or use a third-party location for your road test. As long as you are testing in Georgia with a valid permit, DDS will process your license no matter which location you use.
What if I move to a different county before I get my license?
You can still finish your licensing at any DDS office in Georgia. Your written test and road test results are recorded in the state system, so any office can see them. You do not have to retake tests or start over.
Can someone else pick up my license card for me?
No. DDS mails your card directly to your address. You cannot pick it up in person at an office, and someone else cannot collect it for you. If you move before your card arrives, contact DDS to update your mailing address.