What you need to do to replace a Georgia driver's license

To replace a lost, stolen, or damaged Georgia driver's license, you will visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, pay a replacement fee, and have a new photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive a temporary paper license on the spot. Your permanent card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

You cannot replace your license online or by mail in Georgia — you must appear in person at a DDS location. The state does not mail temporary licenses; the paper version you get at the office is your legal driving document until the card arrives.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Department of Driver Services office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current Georgia address.
  • The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license and $57 for a REAL ID-compliant license, paid at the time of your visit.
  • You will have a new photo taken at the DDS office, so plan to look presentable.
  • You receive a temporary paper license when ready and your permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • 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 to bring to the DDS office

Bring one form of valid government-issued photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. You also need proof that you live in Georgia right now. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address and dated within the last 60 days will satisfy this requirement. A piece of mail from a government agency also counts.

If your license was stolen, bring a police report if you have one. It is not required to get a replacement, but it protects you if someone uses your old license number fraudulently. If your license was damaged, bring what remains of it — the DDS office will take it and destroy it.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will need it to complete the process. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring documentation of your immigration status instead.

Finding a DDS office and making an appointment

The Georgia Department of Driver Services operates offices across the state. You can find the location nearest you and check hours on the official DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many now require appointments, especially in urban areas. Booking ahead online through the DDS website will save you time and reduce your wait.

If you book an appointment, arrive 10 minutes early. If you walk in without an appointment, expect to wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on the office and time of day. Weekday mornings are typically less crowded than afternoons or Saturdays.

Replacement fees and license types

A standard Georgia driver's license replacement costs $32. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license — required for federal building access and domestic air travel after May 7, 2025 — the fee is $57. Both licenses are valid for eight years from the date of issue.

You do not have to upgrade to REAL ID when you replace your license, but if you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal building, you will eventually need one. If you choose REAL ID now, bring an additional document proving your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card, W-2, or tax return. The DDS office will tell you exactly what they accept.

Pay by cash, debit card, or credit card at the DDS office. Some locations may have payment restrictions, so call ahead if you want to confirm payment methods.

What happens at your DDS appointment

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give the staff your documents. A DDS employee will verify your identity and residency, enter your information into the system, and ask you to confirm your address and any other details on your process. You will then have your photo taken — this is the photo that will appear on your new license, so dress as you normally would.

After your photo is taken, you will pay the replacement fee. The DDS employee will give you a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and has the same legal weight as a plastic card — you can drive with it when ready, and police will accept it as proof of licensure.

Keep the temporary license in a safe place. Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. If it does not arrive within two weeks, contact the DDS office where you applied.

If your replacement license does not arrive

Your permanent license should arrive within 7 to 10 business days of your visit. If more than two weeks have passed, call the DDS office where you applied and provide your name, date of birth, and the date of your visit. They can check the status of your card and reissue it if necessary.

If your replacement license arrives damaged or with incorrect information, return to any DDS office with the damaged card and your temporary license. You can request a correction or reissue at no additional charge if the error was made by the DDS.

Replacing a license that was stolen

If your license was stolen, you have the option to file a police report. This is not required to get a replacement license, but it creates an official record in case someone tries to use your old license number. You can file a report online through your local police department's website or in person at a police station.

When you replace your license at the DDS, the old license number is deactivated in the system. However, if you filed a police report, keep a copy for your records. Some identity theft monitoring services ask for proof of the theft report if fraud occurs later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive with my temporary paper license while I wait for my permanent card?

Yes. The temporary paper license is valid for 30 days and is legally recognized by police and other drivers. You can drive, work as a rideshare driver, or use it for any purpose a plastic license serves. Keep it in a safe place because you will need it if your permanent card is delayed.

What if I moved to Georgia recently and my old out-of-state license is still valid?

You do not have to replace it when ready. Georgia allows you to drive on an out-of-state license for 30 days after you move. However, once you establish residency, you should replace it with a Georgia license. Bring your out-of-state license and proof of Georgia residency to any DDS office.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

It depends on the office. Many DDS locations now require appointments, especially in Atlanta and other large cities. Check the DDS website for your local office's policy. If appointments are required and none are available, some offices hold walk-in hours on specific days — call ahead to ask.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a document proving your name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The DDS will update your name in the system and issue a license with your current legal name at no extra charge.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must pick up your temporary license in person at your DDS appointment. Your permanent card is mailed to the address you provided, so no one else needs to be involved in that step.