How to Replace a Lost Georgia Driver's License

Get a replacement license by visiting a Georgia DDS office in person with proof of identity and residency

To replace a lost Georgia driver's license, you must go to a Driver Services office operated by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). You cannot order a replacement online or by mail — Georgia requires you to appear in person, provide identification, and have your photo taken. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, though wait times vary by location and time of day.

You will receive a temporary paper license the same day, valid for 45 days while your plastic card is printed and mailed to your address. The plastic license arrives in 7 to 10 business days under normal circumstances, though processing can take longer during high-volume periods.

Key Takeaways

You must visit a Georgia DDS office in person with a valid ID and proof of your current address to get a replacement license.
Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, because DDS will verify it before issuing a new license.
The replacement fee is $32 for a standard license, payable by cash, debit card, or credit card at the office.
You will walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 45 days, and your plastic license will arrive 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 get a replacement.

What 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. If you do not have a photo ID, you can bring two documents from the DDS list of acceptable non-photo IDs — these include a birth certificate, Social Security card, or utility bill in your name.

You also need proof of your current Georgia address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. The name on the document must match the name on your ID. A post office mail forwarding notice does not count as proof of address.

Bring your Social Security number or a document showing it, such as a Social Security card or tax return. DDS verifies your Social Security number before issuing a new license, so you must have it or be able to prove it.

Finding a DDS office near you and what to expect

Use the DDS office locator on the official Georgia Department of Driver Services website (dds.ga.gov) to find the nearest office and its hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday only; others have Saturday hours. Call ahead if you want to confirm current hours, as some locations have reduced schedules.

Walk-ins are accepted at all DDS offices, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on the time of day and day of the week. Early morning visits (right when the office opens) and mid-week visits typically have shorter waits than afternoons or Fridays. Some offices offer online appointment scheduling through the DDS website, which can reduce your wait time.

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and take a number. You will be called to a service window where a DDS employee will verify your documents, take your photo, and process your replacement license. The entire transaction usually takes 10 to 15 minutes once you reach the window.

The replacement fee and payment methods

A replacement Georgia driver's license costs $32. This fee covers the plastic card and the temporary paper license. DDS accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards at all offices. There is no fee reduction for lost or stolen licenses — the cost is the same as renewing an expired license.

If you cannot pay the fee at the time of your visit, you cannot receive your replacement license. DDS does not offer payment plans or the option to pay later.

Your temporary license and when your plastic card arrives

Before you leave the DDS office, you will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 45 days and has the same legal weight as a plastic license — you can use it to drive, as proof of identity, or for any other purpose a regular license serves. Write the expiration date on the temporary license so you know when it expires.

Your plastic license is printed at a DDS facility and mailed to the address on file. Standard processing takes 7 to 10 business days, though delays can occur during peak periods (such as after holidays or at the start of the year). If your plastic license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact the DDS customer service line to check the status of your order.

If your license was stolen and you want a police report

A police report is not required to get a replacement license, but filing one creates a record if your stolen license is used fraudulently. If you believe your license was stolen rather than lost, you can file a report with your local police department or the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Provide the report number to DDS if you have one, though the DDS office will still issue your replacement without it.

If you are concerned about identity theft, you can also place a fraud alert or credit freeze with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This is a separate step from replacing your license and is not handled by DDS.

What to do if you cannot visit an office in person

Georgia does not offer remote or mail-in replacement for a lost license. You must appear in person at a DDS office. If you are temporarily out of state or unable to visit an office, you can wait until you return to Georgia, but you cannot legally drive without a valid license in the meantime.

If you are disabled or have a medical condition that prevents you from visiting an office, contact the DDS customer service line to ask about accommodations. Some offices may be able to arrange a visit at a different time or location, though this is handled case-by-case.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license the same day?

You receive a temporary paper license the same day you visit the DDS office, which is valid for 45 days. Your plastic license arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Georgia does not issue plastic licenses on the spot.

What if I lost my license and do not have a current address?

You must provide proof of a current Georgia address to get a replacement 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 address. Contact your local DDS office to ask what documents they will accept in your situation.

Do I need to report my lost license to the police?

No, a police report is not required to get a replacement license. However, filing one creates a record if your license is used fraudulently. You can file a report with your local police department if you believe your license was stolen rather than lost.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No. You must appear in person at the DDS office to explore for a replacement license. Georgia does not allow someone else to explore on your behalf or to pick up your temporary license.

What if my plastic license arrives damaged or does not arrive at all?

If your license arrives damaged, return it to any DDS office and request a replacement at no additional cost. If your license does not arrive within 15 business days, contact DDS customer service with your temporary license number to check the status and request a reprint if needed.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.