The Georgia Department of Driver Services issues all driver's licenses in the state

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is the only agency that can issue, renew, or replace a Georgia driver's license. It is part of the Georgia Department of Revenue and operates driver's license offices across all 159 counties in the state. You cannot get a Georgia license from any other government body, private company, or online service — you must go to a DDS office in person.

DDS handles every type of Georgia driver's license: standard licenses, commercial licenses (CDL), learner's permits, and ID cards. The same agency also manages license suspensions, reinstatement, and records. If you need to change your address, renew before expiration, or replace a lost license, DDS is where you go.

Key Takeaways

  • The Georgia Department of Driver Services, part of the Georgia Department of Revenue, is the sole issuer of all Georgia driver's licenses and permits.
  • You must visit a DDS office in person — there is no online or mail-in option to obtain a new license, though some renewals can be done by mail if you meet specific conditions.
  • DDS operates offices in all 159 Georgia counties, so you can visit the location nearest to you rather than traveling to a central office.
  • DDS also handles license suspensions, reinstatements, and records, so if your license status changes, you contact the same agency.

Where to find a Georgia DDS office near you

DDS maintains a full list of driver's license offices on its official website, organized by county. You can search by your county or city to find the office closest to your home or workplace. Each office has its own hours, which vary — some are open Monday through Friday only, while others have limited Saturday hours. Hours also change seasonally and for holidays, so check the specific office's schedule before you go.

Walk-in service is available at all DDS offices, but wait times can be long, especially in urban areas and on weekdays. Many offices now offer online appointment scheduling through the DDS website. Booking an appointment does not may provide you will be seen at that exact time, but it typically reduces your wait compared to walking in without one.

What you need to bring to a DDS office

DDS requires specific documents depending on whether you are getting your first license, renewing, or replacing one. For a first-time license, you need proof of identity (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Georgia residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and your Social Security number. You will also need to pass a vision test and written knowledge test at the office.

For renewals and replacements, the requirements are simpler — usually just your current license or ID card and proof of residency if your address has changed. DDS publishes a full checklist on its website organized by transaction type, so review it before you visit to avoid making a second trip.

How long it takes to get a Georgia license

If you pass the tests and your documents are in order, DDS issues a temporary paper license on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and allows you to drive while you wait for your permanent card. The permanent plastic card is mailed to your address and typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though delays can happen during high-volume periods.

If your documents are incomplete or you fail a test, you will not receive a temporary license that day. You can retake the written test when ready, but you must return to the office with the missing documents before DDS can issue anything. Plan for at least one office visit to take the tests and submit documents, even if everything goes smoothly.

Renewing your license by mail (limited situations)

Most Georgia driver's licenses must be renewed in person at a DDS office. However, if you meet specific conditions — your license is not suspended, you have no medical restrictions, and you are renewing before expiration — you may be able to renew by mail. DDS sends renewal notices to your address about 60 days before your license expires, and the notice will state whether you are may be able to access for mail renewal.

If you are may be able to access, you can mail your current license, the renewal form, and payment to the address listed on the notice. DDS will mail your new license back to you. This process takes longer than in-person renewal — typically 2 to 3 weeks — so do not wait until the last week before expiration to mail it in.

What happens if your license is suspended or revoked

If your Georgia license is suspended or revoked, DDS is the agency that enforces it and the only one that can reinstate it. Suspensions happen for reasons like unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, medical conditions, or accumulating too many points from traffic violations. A revocation is permanent until you meet specific conditions set by DDS or the court.

To reinstate a suspended license, you must resolve the underlying reason — pay fines, clear the child support debt, or complete a required course. Once you have done that, you contact DDS to request reinstatement. Some reinstatements are automatic once the condition is met, while others require you to visit an office in person and pay a reinstatement fee. DDS will tell you which applies to your situation when you call or visit.

Contacting DDS if you have questions

DDS operates a customer service phone line during business hours, though wait times can be long. The number is listed on the DDS website along with hours of operation. You can also visit the DDS website to find answers to common questions, read forms, and check the status of a license process or replacement card.

If you need to speak with someone about a specific issue — a suspension, a failed test, or a document problem — visiting an office in person often gets you a faster answer than calling. Staff at the office can review your records on the spot and tell you exactly what you need to do next.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Georgia driver's license online?

No. You must visit a DDS office in person to take the vision and written tests and submit your documents. Some renewals can be done by mail if DDS notifies you that you are may be able to access, but new licenses and most replacements require an in-person visit.

What if I moved to Georgia from another state?

You must get a Georgia license within 30 days of establishing residency. Visit a DDS office with your out-of-state license, proof of Georgia residency, and proof of identity. You will take the vision test and written test, and DDS will issue a temporary license on the spot.

How much does a Georgia driver's license cost?

Fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver's license costs less than a commercial license. DDS publishes current fees on its website. Payment methods accepted at offices include cash, check, and card.

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake the test when ready at the same office visit, at no additional cost. If you fail again, you must return to the office on another day to try a third time. After three failures, you may need to wait a set period before retesting.

Can someone else pick up my license for me?

No. Your permanent license is mailed to the address you provided at the office, so you do not need to pick it up. If you need a replacement card before it arrives, you must visit a DDS office yourself with your temporary license.