License FAQs

List of frequently asked questions about obtaining a License or ID in the State of Georgia.

a) Customers transferring an out-of-state license/id card will be hole-punched and returned to customers along with an interim license. The hole punch documents are not valid for driving. b) Non-US Citizens with an out-of-country license/id or Citizens from US Territories will be allowed to keep their out-of-country/international license/id after obtaining a GA license/id. c) US Citizens who hold an out-of-country license/id will be allowed to keep their cards with the exception of CDLs.

Georgia driver's licenses are classified according to the type, weight of vehicles you plan to operate, and age of driver. View License, ID, and Permit Types for a full list of licenses issued in Georgia.

  1. A person who has a permanent home or abode in Georgia.
  2. A person who accepts employment or who enrolls his/her children in a public or private school within 10 days of becoming employed in Georgia.
  3. Any person that has been present in the state for 30 days or more. See New Georgia License for more information.

Yes, if you have or ever had any physical or mental disability, or disease which could interfere with your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. A Medical Report (Form DS-287) must be completed by your physician. See Medical Information or view the Medical Report form for a list of medical conditions considered for driving purposes. Special restrictions may be required.

Renewals can be done at any Customer Service Center. You can also renew your license if you qualify online with Online Services, by Mail-In. View Renew License or ID for requirements to renew your license.

The Knowledge Exam can be taken at all Customer Service Center locations except the Jackson location. You do not need a Reservation to take the Knowledge Exam.

Customers should NOT laminate the Interim DL/ID as it will degrade the security features. DDS does not offer any refunds for moving out of state. See the Fees and Terms page for more information on License/ID/Permit card fees and terms.

View Replace Lost License/ID for more information.

See the Fees and Terms page for more information on License/ID/Permit card fees and terms.

You can obtain a name change on your Georgia driver's license/ ID by submitting a certified court order indicating the name change. Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, adoption, gender change, and name change orders are accepted. If you were married in Georgia after 1982 and wish to hyphenate your name, you must present a certified copy of the marriage license application stating the hyphenated name. Driver's license name changes must be done within 60 days of the name change.

No, everyone applying, reinstating, or renewing a driver's license/ ID in person must take a new photo.

a) Yes, your P.O. Box can be used as your mailing address. Please note a verifiable Residential Address must be provided for your records. b) The P.O. Box can be printed on a regular license/id and mailed to the P.O. Box but you must request that your P.O. Box be printed on your regular license/id. The Residential address is the default address. c) A P.O. Box cannot be printed on a CDL but your card can be mailed to the P.O. Box you provide. The Residential Address will print on your CDL document. View Real ID Documents for a list of acceptable documents proving residential address.

You can apply for a replacement GA Driver's License or ID. A replacement can be done at any Customer Service Center, Online, or by using the DDS 2 GO Mobile App. For more information, view Replace Lost License/ID.

Yes, you can begin the process to register to vote when you obtain your license or ID. DDS will forward your voter application to the Georgia Secretary of State’s Office for handling. You should receive your voter precinct card within 30 days, if not please contact the Georgia Secretary of State.

View Customer Service Center (CSC) location and hours.

You can visit any Customer Service Center (CSC) Location. Many of our services can be handled using Online Services or the DDS 2 GO Mobile App.