Yes, you can replace a lost Georgia driver's license online, but only if you meet specific conditions
Georgia allows you to request a replacement license online through the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website, but the process has limits. You can order a replacement online only if your license is still valid (not expired) and you have not reported it stolen. If your license is expired or you believe it was stolen rather than lost, you must go to a DDS office in person.
The online replacement takes about 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail. You will pay a $20 replacement fee, and you can use a debit or credit card to pay. The new license will have the same number and information as your lost one — it is a duplicate, not a new license.
Key Takeaways
- You can order a replacement online only if your current license is valid and you have not reported it stolen to police.
- The online replacement costs $20 and arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
- If your license is expired or stolen, you must visit a DDS office in person with proof of identity and residency.
- You can check your replacement status on the DDS website using your driver's license number and date of birth.
Step-by-step: ordering your replacement online
Go to the Georgia DDS website and look for the "Replace a Lost or Stolen License" option in the online services section. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth to start. The system will ask you to confirm your current address and whether the license was lost or stolen.
If you say lost and your license is not expired, the system will let you proceed to payment. Enter your debit or credit card information and submit. You will receive a confirmation number by email — save this. Georgia will mail your replacement license to the address on file, and you can track its progress on the DDS website using your confirmation number.
When you must go to a DDS office instead
If your Georgia license is expired, the online system will not let you complete the order. You will need to visit a DDS office in person with a valid form of ID (passport, military ID, or state ID) and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days). The office will issue you a new license on the spot or mail it to you, depending on the office location.
You also must go in person if you reported your license stolen to police. Bring your police report number or a copy of the report itself. The DDS office will verify the theft and issue a replacement with the same number or, in some cases, a new number if fraud is suspected.
What happens if your replacement does not arrive
If your license does not arrive within 10 business days, check the status on the DDS website first using your confirmation number. Mail delays do happen, especially during holidays or bad weather. If the tracking shows it was delivered but you did not receive it, contact the DDS by phone at 678-413-8400 to report it.
If the DDS confirms the license was lost in the mail, they can issue a second replacement. You will pay another $20 fee. If this happens, consider picking up your next replacement in person at a DDS office instead of having it mailed.
How your insurance is affected by a lost license
A lost license does not affect your auto insurance coverage. Your policy stays active because the insurance company has your name, date of birth, and driver's license number on file — not the physical card itself. You do not need to call your insurer to report a lost license.
However, if you are pulled over while driving without a valid license in your possession, you can be cited. If you ordered a replacement online, you can show the officer your confirmation email or the tracking information from the DDS website to prove you have requested one. Some officers will accept this; others may still issue a citation. It depends on the officer's judgment and local enforcement practices.
Replacing your license if you have an SR22 or suspension on your record
If your license is suspended or you have an active SR22 requirement, you cannot order a replacement online. You must visit a DDS office in person. The office will verify your suspension status and either issue a replacement (if the suspension has been lifted) or tell you what steps you need to take to reinstate your license first.
If your suspension is still active, you cannot legally drive or hold a valid license. Do not attempt to use an online replacement to bypass this — the system will flag your record and deny the order. Contact the DDS office to find out what you owe in fines, fees, or other requirements to lift the suspension.
Cost and payment options for online replacement
The replacement fee is $20, paid by debit or credit card at the time you order online. Georgia does not accept cash, check, or money order for online orders. If you need to pay by another method, you must go to a DDS office in person.
Some DDS offices charge an additional fee if you request expedited processing or in-person issuance. Check the office location details on the DDS website before you visit to see what payment methods they accept and whether any extra fees explore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use my online replacement confirmation as a valid ID while I wait for the new license?
No. The confirmation email or tracking number is not a valid form of identification. If you are pulled over, you must have a physical license, passport, military ID, or state ID. If you need a valid ID before your replacement arrives, visit a DDS office to request in-person issuance.
What if I lost my license and do not remember my license number?
You will need to visit a DDS office in person. The online system requires your license number to start the replacement process. Bring a valid form of ID and proof of address, and the office staff can look up your number and issue a replacement.
Can I order a replacement if my address has changed since I got my current license?
Yes. The online system will ask you to confirm your current address. If it is different from what is on your license, update it during the replacement order. Your new license will show your updated address.
How long does a replacement license stay valid?
A replacement license has the same expiration date as your original license. If your original license was set to expire in 2027, your replacement will also expire in 2027. You are not getting a fresh license term.
What if I find my original license after I order a replacement?
You can still use your original license. When the replacement arrives, you can keep it as a backup or destroy it. There is no penalty for having both. If you want to cancel the replacement order before it ships, call the DDS when ready at 678-413-8400.