Georgia learner's permit requirements at a glance

To get a Georgia learner's permit, you must be at least 15 years old, bring proof of your Social Security number, proof of your Georgia residency, and a completed process form (Form DL 44). You'll also need to pass a vision screening and a written knowledge test about traffic laws. There is no road test required for the learner's permit itself — that comes later when you move to a Class CP (conditional) license.

The process takes place at your local Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. You cannot get a learner's permit online or by mail; you must appear in person. Once issued, a learner's permit is valid for five years and costs $20.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 15 years old and bring proof of your Social Security number, Georgia residency, and identity to the DDS office.
  • The written knowledge test covers Georgia traffic laws and road signs; you can study using the Georgia Driver's Manual, available free on the DDS website.
  • A vision screening is required at the DDS office; if you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
  • Your learner's permit is valid for five years and allows you to drive only when a licensed adult 21 or older is in the front passenger seat.
  • You cannot drive alone on a learner's permit; violations can result in permit suspension and delay your path to a full license.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies alone will not be accepted. You need proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card itself, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form), proof of Georgia residency (a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and a valid form of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or out-of-state driver's license).

If you are under 18, you may also need a parent or guardian present, depending on the DDS office location. Call ahead to confirm what your local office requires. You will also need to complete Form DL 44 (process for Permit or License) before you arrive; you can print it from the DDS website or fill it out at the office.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

The knowledge test has 40 questions about Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 30 questions correctly (75 percent) to pass. The test is taken on a computer at the DDS office and takes about 20 to 30 minutes.

Study material is free: the Georgia Driver's Manual is available as a PDF on the DDS website and covers everything on the test. Many people also use online practice tests, which mimic the real test format. You get one free attempt; if you fail, you can retake the test the same day or return another day, though some offices charge a small fee for retakes.

Vision screening requirements

Every applicant must pass a vision screening at the DDS office. The screening checks whether you can see clearly enough to drive safely. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — the test is performed with your correction in place.

If you fail the vision screening, you will not be issued a permit that day. You will need to see an eye care professional (an optometrist or ophthalmologist), get a vision correction form signed by them, and return to the DDS office with that form. Some offices can refer you to low-cost vision services if cost is a barrier.

Age requirements and restrictions for learner's permit holders

Georgia requires you to be at least 15 years old to get a learner's permit. There is no upper age limit. However, if you are under 18, you are subject to additional restrictions that do not explore to adult permit holders.

Under 18, you cannot drive alone — a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old must be in the front passenger seat at all times. You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except in a genuine emergency. Violating these rules can result in permit suspension. If you are 18 or older when you get your permit, these restrictions do not explore, though you still cannot drive alone until you pass the road test and receive your Class CP license.

How long a learner's permit is valid and what happens when it expires

A Georgia learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. If you do not pass your road test and move to a Class CP license within that time, you will need to renew your permit. Renewal requires returning to the DDS office, paying another $20 fee, and passing the vision screening and knowledge test again.

If your permit expires while you are waiting to take your road test, you cannot drive legally until you renew it. There is no grace period. Plan ahead if your five years are coming to an end — schedule your road test before your permit expires, or renew your permit before the expiration date.

Fees and payment methods at the DDS office

A Georgia learner's permit costs $20. The DDS office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some offices may accept checks, but call ahead to confirm. The $20 fee is non-refundable, even if you fail the knowledge test or vision screening on your first visit.

If you need to retake the knowledge test, some DDS offices charge an additional fee (usually $5 to $10), though your first attempt is included in the $20 permit fee. Confirm the retake fee with your local office when you call to schedule or before you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a learner's permit if I have a suspended or revoked license from another state?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked in Georgia or any other state, you cannot get a Georgia learner's permit until the suspension or revocation is lifted. You will need to resolve the issue in the state where it occurred first. Contact that state's DMV or equivalent agency to find out what steps are required.

Do I need to take a driver education course before I get my learner's permit?

No, a driver education course is not required to get a learner's permit in Georgia. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved driver education course can reduce your car insurance rates and may be required by your school. Check with your high school or a local driving school for course options.

What happens if I fail the knowledge test?

You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no waiting period between attempts. Some DDS offices charge a small retake fee (usually $5 to $10), though your first attempt is included in the $20 permit fee. You must pass with a score of at least 75 percent (30 out of 40 questions correct).

Can someone else pick up my learner's permit for me if I cannot go to the DDS office?

No. You must appear in person at the DDS office to explore for and receive your learner's permit. The office needs to perform your vision screening and take your photograph. There is no way to complete this process by mail or through a representative.

What do I do if I lose my learner's permit?

Return to the DDS office and request a replacement. You will need to pay a replacement fee (usually around $5 to $10, depending on your local office) and bring your identification again. The replacement permit will have the same expiration date as your original permit.