What You Need to Do to Get Your Georgia License Back

To reinstate a suspended or revoked Georgia driver's license, you must first find out why it was suspended, pay any required fees, and then submit a reinstatement request to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). The process and cost depend on the reason for suspension — whether it was for unpaid traffic fines, a DUI conviction, failure to pay child support, or another violation. You cannot straightforward renew your license; you must go through the formal reinstatement process, which typically takes two to four weeks after DDS receives your request.

Georgia does not reinstate licenses automatically when a suspension period ends. You must take action. The first step is contacting DDS directly to learn the specific reason your license was suspended and what conditions you must meet before reinstatement is possible.

Key Takeaways

  • You must contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services to find out why your license was suspended and what reinstatement requirements explore to your case.
  • Reinstatement fees range from $210 to $250 depending on the reason for suspension, and you must pay this fee before DDS will process your request.
  • Some suspensions require you to complete additional steps — such as paying court fines, completing a DUI education program, or providing proof of insurance — before you can reinstate.
  • You can request reinstatement online through the DDS website, by mail, or in person at a DDS office, but processing takes two to four weeks.
  • If your license was suspended for unpaid child support or court fines, you may need to contact the relevant court or agency to resolve that obligation first.

Finding Out Why Your License Was Suspended

Before you can reinstate your license, you need to know the exact reason DDS suspended it. Common reasons include unpaid traffic citations, failure to appear in court, DUI or reckless driving convictions, failure to maintain auto insurance, unpaid child support, and medical or vision issues. Each reason has different reinstatement requirements and fees.

Contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services at 678-413-8400 or visit the DDS website at dds.ga.gov. You can also visit a DDS office in person with your ID. Have your driver's license number or Social Security number ready. DDS will tell you the suspension reason, the reinstatement fee amount, and any other conditions you must meet — such as paying fines, completing a course, or providing documentation.

If your suspension is related to court fines or child support, DDS will direct you to contact the court or the Georgia Department of Human Services. Do not assume you can pay DDS and be done; some suspensions require you to resolve the underlying issue first.

Reinstatement Fees and What They Cover

Georgia charges a reinstatement fee that varies by suspension reason. The standard reinstatement fee is $210 for most suspensions. If your license was suspended for a DUI or refusal to take a breath test, the fee is $250. These fees are non-refundable and must be paid before DDS will process your reinstatement request.

The reinstatement fee covers the administrative cost of processing your request and restoring your driving privileges. It does not cover any court fines, child support arrears, or other debts that may have caused the suspension. You may need to pay those separately to the court or relevant agency.

You can pay the reinstatement fee by check, money order, credit card, or debit card. If you are paying by mail, include the fee with your reinstatement request form. If you are paying online or in person, DDS will accept payment at the time of your request.

Steps to Request Reinstatement Online, by Mail, or In Person

Georgia offers three ways to request reinstatement. The fastest method is online through the DDS website at dds.ga.gov, where you can submit your request and pay the fee when ready. You will need your driver's license number, Social Security number, and a valid payment method. After you submit, DDS will send you a confirmation email.

If you prefer to mail your request, read the reinstatement form from the DDS website or request one by phone. Complete the form, include the reinstatement fee by check or money order, and mail it to the address listed on the form. Processing by mail takes longer — typically three to four weeks — because DDS must receive and process the physical document.

You can also visit a DDS office in person to request reinstatement. Bring your ID, your driver's license number or Social Security number, and payment for the reinstatement fee. A DDS staff member will process your request on the spot and provide you with a receipt. After you submit your request through any method, DDS will mail you a new license within two to four weeks if your request is approved.

Special Requirements for DUI and Suspension Violations

If your license was suspended for a DUI conviction or refusal to submit to a breath or blood test, you face additional requirements before reinstatement. You must complete a DUI Risk Reduction Program (also called a DUI school) approved by the Georgia Department of Corrections. This program typically costs $300 to $500 and takes 8 to 12 hours to complete, usually offered over one or two days.

You must also provide proof of enrollment or completion of the DUI program when you request reinstatement. Some DUI suspensions also require you to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for a set period — usually six months to three years depending on your conviction history. You cannot drive without this device during the required period, even after your license is reinstated.

Additionally, you must show proof of Georgia auto insurance before your license will be reinstated. DDS will verify this through the Insurance Verification System. If you do not have current insurance, you must obtain it before submitting your reinstatement request.

Resolving Court Fines and Child Support Issues

If your license was suspended because of unpaid traffic fines or failure to appear in court, you must contact the court that issued the citation. The court will tell you the amount owed and accept payment. Once you pay the fine or arrange a payment plan, ask the court to notify DDS that the issue has been resolved. Some courts do this automatically; others require you to request it.

If your suspension is due to unpaid child support, contact the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Family Support Services, at 1-800-849-9346. They will tell you the amount owed and payment options. You may be able to set up a payment plan rather than paying the full amount at once. Once you have resolved the child support issue, DDS will be notified and you can proceed with reinstatement.

Do not submit your reinstatement request to DDS until the court or child support agency confirms that your obligation has been satisfied. If you submit before resolving the underlying issue, DDS will deny your request and you will have to reapply after the problem is fixed.

What Happens After You Submit Your Reinstatement Request

After you submit your reinstatement request and fee, DDS will review your file to confirm that all requirements have been met. This review takes two to four weeks. During this time, DDS may contact you if additional information or documentation is needed. Check your email regularly if you submitted online, or watch for mail from DDS if you submitted by mail or in person.

If your request is approved, DDS will mail you a new driver's license to the address on file. Your license will be valid for eight years from the date of issuance. If your request is denied, DDS will send you a letter explaining why and what additional steps you must take.

Once your new license arrives, you can drive legally in Georgia. If you were required to install an ignition interlock device, you must have it installed before you drive. If you were required to complete a DUI program, keep your completion certificate in your vehicle in case you are stopped by law enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive while my reinstatement request is being processed?

No. Your license remains suspended until DDS approves your reinstatement request and mails you a new license. Driving with a suspended license is illegal and can result in criminal charges, additional fines, and further suspension. Wait until you receive your new license before driving.

What if I cannot afford the reinstatement fee right now?

Georgia does not offer payment plans for reinstatement fees. The fee must be paid in full before DDS will process your request. However, if your suspension is due to unpaid court fines or child support, you may be able to set up a payment plan with the court or child support agency for that obligation. Contact them directly to discuss options.

How long does reinstatement take if I submit online versus by mail?

Online submission is faster because DDS receives and processes your request when ready. You can expect approval within two to three weeks. Mail submission takes longer because DDS must receive the physical form and process it manually, typically three to four weeks. In-person submission at a DDS office is processed on the spot, but your new license still takes two to four weeks to arrive by mail.

Do I need to take a new driving test to reinstate my license?

No. Reinstatement does not require you to retake the written or road test. You only need to meet the specific requirements for your suspension reason — paying fees, completing programs, or resolving court or child support issues — and submit your reinstatement request.

What if my license was suspended for a medical reason?

If DDS suspended your license for a medical condition or vision problem, you must obtain a medical clearance from your doctor before reinstatement. Contact DDS to find out what form your doctor must complete and submit it along with your reinstatement request. DDS will review the medical documentation and approve reinstatement if the condition has been resolved or managed.