What You Need to Do to Replace a Lost Georgia License

To replace a lost Georgia driver's license, you visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person with proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and take a new photo. You cannot do this by mail or online. The whole process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you.

Georgia does not issue a replacement license without an in-person visit. You must show up yourself — no one can do this for you. The office will verify your identity against their records, confirm you still live in Georgia, and issue the replacement on the spot.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DDS office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current Georgia address to replace a lost license.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license and $35 for a REAL ID-compliant license, and you pay at the office.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready that is valid for 30 days, and your plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.
  • DDS offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and many locations accept walk-ins, though some require an appointment.
  • If you cannot locate your license and are unsure whether it was lost or stolen, DDS can check their records when you visit.

Documents You Must Bring to the DDS Office

Bring one form of valid government-issued photo ID. This can be a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a state ID from another state. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents — ask DDS ahead of time what they will accept, because the rules are strict.

You also need proof of your current Georgia address. This means a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail (like a tax return or court document). A piece of mail from your insurance company or a credit card statement counts. A cell phone bill does not.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. If you have lost your Social Security card as well, bring a tax return or W-2 form instead.

Where to Find a DDS Office and How to Schedule

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. Find the one nearest you on the Georgia DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. The site lists every office location, hours, and phone number. Call ahead to ask whether that office takes walk-ins or requires an appointment, because policies vary by location.

Many DDS offices in Atlanta and other large cities fill up during lunch hours and late afternoon. If you can visit mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday, you will likely wait less than 15 minutes. Some offices are busier than others — the website does not show wait times, so calling first saves a wasted trip.

If you live in a rural county with only one DDS office and it is far away, ask whether you can visit an office in a neighboring county. Some counties allow this, but you must ask first.

The Cost and What Type of License to Choose

A standard Georgia driver's license replacement costs $32. A REAL ID-compliant license costs $35. The difference is that a REAL ID license meets federal standards and can be used for domestic air travel and entry to federal buildings. A standard license cannot be used for these purposes as of May 2025.

If you fly domestically or visit federal courthouses or military bases, get the REAL ID version. If you do neither, the standard license is cheaper. You can always upgrade to REAL ID later by visiting a DDS office again and paying the difference, so do not feel locked in.

You pay the fee at the DDS office when you explore. They accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Bring enough cash or a card in case the office does not accept the payment method you planned on.

Your Temporary License and When Your Plastic Card Arrives

When you finish at the DDS office, you receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This is valid for 30 days and works for driving, voting, and most ID purposes. Keep it with you while you wait for your plastic card.

Your new plastic license is mailed to the address you provide at the DDS office. Standard delivery takes 7 to 10 business days. If you move before it arrives, contact DDS when ready with your new address so they can redirect it. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, call DDS to check the status.

Do not throw away your temporary paper license until the plastic card arrives. If the plastic card is lost in the mail, you will need the paper license as proof that you applied.

What to Do If You Cannot Find Your License or Are Unsure It Was Lost

If you think your license might have been stolen rather than lost, you can report it to the police, but this is not required to replace it. DDS will issue a replacement either way. The difference matters only if you want a police report for your records or if you are concerned about identity theft.

If you are unsure whether you still have your license somewhere, call the DDS office before you visit and ask them to check their records. They can tell you whether a license is currently active in your name. If it is, you can request a replacement. If it is not, something else may have happened — ask DDS what they recommend.

Georgia does not charge extra to replace a lost license versus a damaged one. The process and fee are the same.

Special Situations: Replacing a License If You Have Changed Your Name or Address

If you have changed your name since your license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring a document proving the change. This can be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You will need to update your name on your license at the same time you replace it, but there is no extra fee.

If you have moved to a new Georgia address since your license was issued, bring proof of your new address (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days). DDS will update your address when they issue the replacement. If you have moved out of Georgia, you cannot replace a Georgia license — you must get a license from your new state instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license by mail or online?

No. Georgia requires you to visit a DDS office in person. You cannot mail in a request or use the DDS website to replace a lost license. You must show up with your documents and take a new photo.

What if I do not have a valid ID or proof of address?

Call your local DDS office and explain your situation. They can tell you what alternative documents they will accept. For example, if you do not have a utility bill, a lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement may work. DDS has some flexibility, but you must ask first.

How long does the plastic license take to arrive?

Standard mail delivery is 7 to 10 business days from the date you explore. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact DDS with your process number (printed on your temporary paper license) and they can check the status or reissue it.

Can I use my temporary paper license to fly or drive out of state?

You can drive out of state with your temporary paper license. For flying, it depends on the airline — some accept it, some do not. Call your airline before your trip. Your plastic license will work for all purposes once it arrives.

What if my address changes after I explore but before the card arrives?

Contact DDS when ready with your new address and your process number. They can update your mailing address so the card goes to the right place. If you do not update it, the card may be returned to DDS and you will have to reapply.