What You Need to Do Right Now
To replace a lost driver's license in Georgia, you must visit a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person with proof of identity and residency. You cannot renew or replace a license by mail or online. The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license, and the new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If you need to drive before it arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the same visit.
Georgia does not issue duplicate licenses or hold replacement licenses at the office for pickup. The process is straightforward but requires you to be present with the right documents — there are no shortcuts or exceptions to this rule.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a DDS office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current Georgia address; no online, mail, or phone replacements are available.
- The replacement fee is $32, and your new license will be mailed to your address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
- You can request a temporary paper license at your DDS visit if you need to drive when ready while waiting for the permanent card.
- Bring original documents or certified copies — photocopies and digital images are not accepted for proof of identity or residency.
- If your license was stolen, you may want to file a police report first, though it is not required to replace the license itself.
Documents You Must Bring to the DDS Office
Georgia requires two categories of documents: proof of identity and proof of residency. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies, faxes, and digital images will not be accepted.
For proof of identity, bring one of the following: a valid passport (U.S. or foreign), a certified birth certificate, a military ID, a state ID from another state, or a tribal ID. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of secondary documents such as a Social Security card, a school or work ID, or a bank statement with your name on it — but you will need at least two secondary documents.
For proof of residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days showing your current Georgia address. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, a lease or mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, a property tax bill, an insurance policy, or a government notice (such as a tax return or court document). A mail piece from a government agency counts. A PO box does not satisfy residency requirements.
Steps to Replace Your License at a DDS Office
Georgia has 59 DDS offices across the state. You do not need an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day. You can find your nearest office and current wait times on the Georgia DDS website (dds.georgia.gov).
- Locate your nearest DDS office using the office locator on dds.georgia.gov and note the hours.
- Gather your proof of identity and proof of residency documents (originals or certified copies only).
- Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized; you will need it to complete the process.
- Arrive at the office during business hours and check in at the front desk.
- Complete the DL 44 form (process for a Driver's License or Learner's Permit) at the office or read it beforehand from dds.georgia.gov.
- Present your documents to the DDS staff member and pay the $32 replacement fee (cash, check, or card accepted at most offices).
- Have your photo taken for the new license.
- Request a temporary paper license if you need to drive before the permanent card arrives.
- Receive a receipt with your confirmation number and expected delivery date.
The entire process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on office traffic. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.
Getting a Temporary License to Drive when ready
If you need to drive before your permanent license arrives, ask the DDS staff member for a temporary paper license before you leave the office. This is issued on the spot at no extra cost and is valid for 45 days. It is a printed document, not a card, and you must carry it with your proof of identity (such as your passport or birth certificate) when you drive.
The temporary license is valid in Georgia and is recognized by law enforcement. However, some rental car companies and out-of-state businesses may not accept it, so call ahead if you plan to rent a vehicle or cross state lines. The temporary license expires 45 days after issue or when your permanent card arrives, whichever comes first.
If Your License Was Stolen
If your license was stolen rather than lost, you may want to file a police report, though it is not required to replace the license itself. A police report can be useful if someone uses your stolen license for fraud or if you need documentation for insurance or identity theft purposes.
To file a report, contact your local police department's non-emergency line or file online if your city offers that option. You do not need the police report to visit the DDS — bring the same documents you would bring for a lost license. If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) by contacting any one of them.
What Happens If Your License Arrives Damaged or Wrong
If your replacement license arrives with a printing error, a damaged card, or incorrect information, return to any DDS office with the defective license and your receipt. DDS will issue a corrected license at no additional charge. Bring the same proof of residency document you used for the original replacement, as the office may ask to verify your current address.
If your license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the DDS office where you applied. Provide your confirmation number from your receipt. DDS can check the status of your order and reissue if the card was lost in the mail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license online or by mail in Georgia?
No. Georgia requires you to appear in person at a DDS office with original or certified copies of your identity and residency documents. There is no online replacement option, and you cannot mail in documents or renew by phone.
What if I don't have a current address to put on my new license?
You must have a Georgia address to replace your license. If you are homeless or living temporarily, bring a letter from a shelter, social service agency, or other organization on letterhead stating your current location and the dates you are staying there. DDS will accept this as proof of residency.
How much does it cost to replace a lost license in Georgia?
The replacement fee is $32. This covers the cost of the new card and processing. The temporary paper license is issued at no extra cost. Most DDS offices accept cash, check, and card payments.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. Georgia does not hold licenses at the office for pickup. Your license is mailed to the address on file. If you need someone else to receive it, you must update your mailing address at the DDS office before you leave, or file a change of address with the U.S. Postal Service.
What if I lost my license while traveling out of state?
You must return to Georgia to replace it in person at a DDS office. If you are stranded, you can request a temporary paper license by mail in some cases — contact the DDS office in your home county to ask about options. In the meantime, a passport or other state ID can serve as proof of identity if you need to fly or rent a car.