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GeorgiaDrivers License Guide


Bonus

Features

24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance Benefits

24-Hour Towing Service

24-Hour Mechanical First Aid

24-Hour Tire Change Service

Customers are covered for emergency road service throughout the U.S. and Canada.

Customers are entitled to emergency towing service at no out-of-pocket cost for any tow up to 75 dollars. One service per seven days, two services per contract. Extended distance will be an additional expense covered by the customer.

Customers are entitled to any service requiring minor adjustments (exclusive of parts) to enable a disabled vehicle to proceed under its own power, where available.

Customers may have their tire changed with their inflated and functional spare tire.

Congratulations on your 60 day membership to our Roadside Assistance.When out on the road, you will know that you are covered and protected by an organization that cares about the safety of you and your family. Our customer service representatives respond quickly to provide you the best service and protection available anywhere.


Rental Car Discounts

24-Hour Lost Key Service

24-Hour Emergency Delivery

24-Hour Emergency Battery Service

Map Routing Service

Customers are entitled to take advantage of our rental car discount codes and pre-negotiated group rates, which are honored at thousands of locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

If keys are locked inside a customer’s vehicle, the customer will be assisted in gaining entry to the vehicle’s passenger compartment only. Locksmith services may be dispatched as needed at the customer’s expense for labor and key making.

A service truck will deliver emergency supplies of gasoline, water, oil or other necessary supplies. Customers pay only for the cost of the supplies.

Customers are covered for battery boosts and minor adjustments to alternators, starters, etc. while on the road.

We will, at no charge, provide customers with a four-color mapping and travel route information to destinations they specify.

Theft And Hit & Run Protection

A $500 reward is offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of anyone responsible for Hit & Run damages or stealing customers’ vehicles. Whenever you travel, you will like the secure and confident feeling of knowing that you are protected by NSD’s Roadside Assistance. Fast response and excellent service are just two reasons why millions of motorists rely on NSD’s Roadside Assistance for on-the-road protection.


Follow the link in your confirmation email to start redeeming your $25 Gas Coupon.

*PLEASE SAVE ALL THE INFORMATION FOR YOUR RECORDS. You will use your log in information throughout the course of your complimentary gas membership.

Congratulations!Redeem Your $25 Gas Card Online

Keeping You Safe Mile After MileOnce your purchase is processed, you will receive an email with the information you will need to start your 60 days of Road Assistance.


Table Of

Contents

Getting Your First Georgia License

Starting the Journey

Updating Your License Information

Getting a Georgia ID Card

Reinstating Your Driver License

Official Forms

Renewing Your License

Replacing a Lost or Stolen Driver License

Vehicle Safety Tips

DMV Hours and Locations

11

6

19

29

25

40

16

22

36

41


Depending on your age, you will be required to hold different permits and licenses before you get your full privilege Georgia driver license. This guide will provide you with all the information you need before you start this journey.

Starting

the Journey

Driving independently is an exciting experience, but before you start getting behind the wheel on your own, you must go through a process.


Teen DriversAs soon as you reach 15 years of age, you become eligibleto begin learning how to drive, and you may be eager to getstarted. However, teenagers in Georgia must first comply with three main requirements if they want to drive in the state: Joshua’s Law, the Teenage and Adult Driver Responsibility Law (TADRA) and school attendance. The following sections will cover each of these requirements.

Joshua’s Law is a bill that changed the requirements that teen drivers have to meet before obtaining their Class D license. According to this law, to get a Class D license you must:

Holding an instructional permit allows you to operate a class C vehicle in company of a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age. This person must sit in the front seat, next to the driver. To apply, you have to:

A checklist of acceptable identifying documents can be found here.

TADRA is the graduated drivers license program for motorists between 15 and 18 years of age in Georgia. TADRA was created as a way to reduce the main cause of teen deaths: traffic crashes. The first year of driving is the most important and the riskiest. Teens are more likely to ignore traffic signs, drive under the influence and speed. TADRA changes the way in which the privilege of driving is controlled. It allows new teen drivers to gain experience and as a result, reduce risky driving situations. TADRA is composed of the following three steps that teens must go through go gain full driving privileges.

Those who do not complete the driver’s education course will have to wait until they turn 17 to get their Class D license.

Have completed a drivers education course that is approved by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).

Have completed a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of supervised driving experience (not including the hours from the course), with at least six of these hours having been at night.

Joshua’s Law

Instructional Permit (CP)

Teenage and Adult Driver Responsibility Law (TADRA)

Be at least 15 years of age.

Pass the vision exam.

Pass the knowledge exam.

Have a parent, guardian or responsible adult or authorized Driver Training Instructor sign the application for the driver’s license.

Present documentation showing your identity, residential address, full Social Security Number and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

https://dds.georgia.gov/SecureId/accepteddocs.aspx


Class D is a provisional license that you obtain after holding the instructional permit for 12 months and complying with Joshua’s Law. You may not drive between midnight and 5 a.m. Only immediate family members can ride in the vehicle during the first six months. During the second six months, only one non-immediate family passenger under 21 years of age cane ride in the vehicle. After these 12 months, only three non-immediate family passengers under 21 years of age can ride in the vehicle. To obtain a Class D intermediate license, you must meet the following requirements:

The last step of the TADRA, this license is granted to drivers over 18 years of age who have held a Class D license for 12 months without incurring any major traffic conviction. Other requirements and information regarding this license will be explained in further detail in a separate section.

Intermediate License (Class D)

Full License (Class C)

Be at least 16 years old

Show documentation proving your identity, residential address, full Social Security Number and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

Pass the vision exam

Pass the road skills test

Have a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving experience with at least six hours of night driving

Have a parent, guardian, responsible adult or an authorized driver training instructor sign your application for the drivers license

Have held your instructional permit for a minimum of one year and a day

Present certificate of completion of ADAP or eADAP

Not have any major traffic violations that caused the suspension of your permit

Present certificate of Attendance (DS-1) dated within the last 30 days or High School Diploma or GED

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/ds-1.pdf


School Attendance

Written Test

Vision Test

If you are younger than 18 years old, then you must be enrolled in a public or private school. You must not be under expulsion or have incurred the following offenses for one academic year prior to applying for your instruction permit or driver license:

Teen drivers will also have to take and pass a knowledge test which is composed of two parts: the road rules exam and the road signs test. The exams have 20 questions, of which drivers must answer 15 correctly to pass. The road rules test contains questions about driver responsibility, safe driving practices and laws, while the road signs test contains questions about the meaning of Georgia road signs. Motorists must be able to identify the signs, markers and signals used in the state. The road rules test is available in several languages, found here.

Drivers must take and pass a vision test in which the acceptable vision is 20/60 in one eye (with or without corrective lenses). Motorists must also have a field vision minimum of 140 degrees. If drivers fail the field vision exam, then they must submit this form, completed by a licensed practitioner.

To obtain your permit and license, you must present one of the following documents:

NoteTry to arrive at the Customer Service Center at least 30 minutes before it closes to have enough time to take the test.

Certificate of Attendance (DS-1)

High School Diploma

General Education Development (GED)

Special Diploma

Certificate of High School Completion

Declaration of Intent for Home Schoolers

Certificate of Adult Literacy proving pursuit of a GED

Drop out of school without graduating and remain out of school for ten consecutive school days Transcript from college or vocational school

with official transcript with seal dated within the last 30 days

Have 10 or more school days of unexcused absences in the current academic year or 10 or more school days of unexcused absences in the previous academic year

Have been found in violation (i.e. sexual offense or drug or weapon possession) by a hearing officer, panel or tribunal or have waived your right to a hearing and pled guilty

https://dds.georgia.gov/list-languages

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DDS-MR-274.pdf


Road Test

Driver Education

Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP)

Before you are granted your intermediate license, you must pass a road skills test. This test will evaluate your driving skills and your ability to follow the rules and respect the signs. You must score a minimum of 75 percent to pass. The road test is only available in English. If you fail, then you must wait one day to retest. If you fail again, then you must wait seven days to retest. Road skills tests are only administered by appointment, so make sure to make one before going to your local DDS office by clicking here.

If you are 16 years of age and are applying for a Class D (intermediate) license, then you must show proof of successful completion of 30 hours of driver education plus the 40 hours of supervised driving. If you are 17 or older, then you do not need to complete the driver education requirement. The driving education courses must be approved by the DDS and online options are available. Find a list of approved schools here.

All teen drivers under 18 years of age must complete an Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program, or ADAP. The ADAP is sometimes included in the 30-hour driver education courses and is a four-hour course. If motorists are unable to complete the ADAP through their school, then they have the option to do it online. Learn more about eADAP here.

Over 18If you are at least 18 years of age and want to start driving, you have the following options:

If you choose to obtain the Class D license, then refer to the instructional permit section from the teen driver segment above. If you choose not to obtain the permit, then you will still have to complete the 40 hours of supervised education, including six hours of night driving.

Obtain an instructional permit to practice.

Instructional Permit (CP): $10

Provisional Driver’s License (Class D): $10

Apply for a Class D license right away.

Note The fees for instructional permits must be paid before taking the knowledge test. If you fail any part of the test, then you will have to pay the permit fee again to retest. The provisional license fee includes the road test. If you pay at the DDS, then you may use credit or debit card, cash, money order or check. If you pay online, then you can only use Visa, MasterCard, American Express and debit cards with the MasterCard or Visa logo.

https://dds.georgia.gov/road-test-appointments?con=1743296159&ty=dl

https://online.dds.ga.gov/ddsgeorgiagov/locations/certified-driver-training-schools.aspx

https://online.dds.ga.gov/eADAP/Index.aspx?ReturnUrl=%252feadap%252f


Once you turn 18 years of age, you are ready to obtain your full privilege Class C driving license. If the process seems confusing, there is no need to worry, as this guide will help you through it. If you are a new Georgia resident, then you will also find all the information that you need to get your GA license in a section below. No matter what situations applies to you, you must visit a DDS customer service center to get your first license. Find a list of locations here.

Getting Your

First Georgia License

https://dds.georgia.gov/locations/customer-service-center


If you are a current Georgia resident, then one of the following three scenarios may apply to you that will determine how to obtain your first license.

Current Georgia Residents

If you just turned 18 and have a Class D license, then you must have held it for one year and one day before applying for a Class C license. Additionally, you must have not been convicted of any major traffic violations during that time. To obtain your Class C license, you must surrender your Class D license or indicate in your application that you are not able to surrender it. You will not be required to submit any additional documentation or take any additional tests.

If you just reached the age of 18 and hold an instruction permit (CP), then you must surrender your permit or indicate in your application that you are not able to surrender it. Additionally, you must pass the road test to prove that you are able to safely operate a vehicle. You must also prove that you completed 40 hours of supervised driving, including six hours of night driving.

If you are 18 years of age or more and have never held an instructional permit, then you have two options. You can apply for an instructional permit to get driving practice before applying for a Class C license. Otherwise, you can immediately apply for a class C license. To do so, you must:

• Meet all secure ID documentation requirements.• Take and pass the knowledge test.• Take and pass the road skills test.• Sign an affidavit confirming that you completed 40 hours of supervised road driving, with six of

them being at night.



If you just became a Georgia resident and wish to drive in the state, then you must apply for a driver’s license or permit within30 days of becoming a resident.

New Georgia Residents

If you are under 18 years of age and want to transfer your out-of-state driver license or instructional permit, then you may be eligible to do so. However, the DDS must confirm if the state that issued your permit or license has comparable requirements to those of Georgia. Please call Customer Contact Center at (678) 413-8400, (678) 413-8500 or (678) 413-8600. If you are 18 or older and want to exchange your out-of-state drivers license or permit for a Georgia credential, then you must complete the following steps:

• Surrender your current (or expired for less than two years) and valid driver license or permit. If you are unable to surrender it, then you must present a certified letter of clearance or a Driving History (dated within 30 days) from the state that issued it and it must show your license or permit’s status as license.

• If you are 17 years of age, then you must have a valid license that is equivalent to the Georgia Class C license.

• Present proof of your Social Security Number or proof that you are ineligible to obtain a Social Security Number.

• Provide one proof of identity.• Provide one proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S. All the documents must be original

or certified copies.• Provide two proofs of Georgia residency.• Pass a vision test.• Pass a road rules and road signs test.

If you do not have an out-of-state valid license or permit, then you must follow the process for obtaining a license or permit for the first time.

If you have a driver license or permit from another country, then you will not be able to transfer it. Therefore, you must:

• Present your valid out-of-country license or permit. If you do not have it, then provide a driving history or motor vehicle report from the country that issued your credentials (in English or translated by an approved DDS representative) dated within the last 30 days.

• Complete the knowledge, road and vision tests.• Present documents to prove your identity, citizenship or lawful presence, Social Security Number

and residency.• If you are under 18 years of age, then refer to the teen driver section previously mentioned.


To obtain a Georgia driver license for veteran status, motorists must first get the Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516) from the State Department of Veterans Services. To apply for such credentials, drivers must first meet the following requirements:

To obtain an honorary driver license, you must be the spouse of a disabled honorably separated veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who does not have a driver license. You may also obtain an honorable drivers license if your honorably separated veteran spouse died and you have not remarried. Additionally, you must have had residency in Georgia at the time of your spouse’s enlistment or induction into the service or at least two consecutive years before you apply for license. Once you have determined your eligibility, you will have to complete the following steps:

All documents must be in English, otherwise, let the DDS Official at your local office know you need a translator.

Veteran Driver’s License

Honorary Driver License

Present evidence of honorable, active duty service in the Armed Forces of the U.S. or evidence of a minimum of 20 years of services in the National Guard to any office of the State Department of Veterans Services. All this information is contained in your copy of the Armed Forces separation papers (Form DD-214).

Present proof of identity, residential address, full Social Security Number and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence in the U.S. Find the checklist of documents here.

If you are the unmarried surviving spouse, then provide the death certificate to Veterans Services to obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516).

Present the original Certificate of Eligibility. You can get this at the Georgia Department of Veterans Services if you provide your spouse’s Armed Forces Separation Papers (DD-214).

Pass a vision test.

Present the DS-516 certificate and proof of identity, lawful presence and residency at any DDS customer service center. You must prove you were a Georgia resident and that you lived there at the time of enlistment or induction, or that you were enlisted or commissioned elsewhere and have been a resident of Georgia for at least two consecutive years prior to the date of application. If you have served during a period of active conflict, then you are eligible for a free license, which will be noted on your DS-516.

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DS-516.pdf



FeesLicense fees depend on the terms chosen. If motorists pay at the DDS, then they may use credit or debit card, cash, money order or check. If they pay online, then they can only use Visa, MasterCard and American Express credit cards and debit cards with the MasterCard or Visa logo. Find the prices below:

Regular Drivers License: $32

Honorary Drivers License: No fee

Veterans Drivers License (Combat): No fee

Veterans Drivers License (Non-Combat): $32


Renewing

Your License

You may renew your license up to 150 days before it expires or up to two years after. You will receive your license approximately seven days after you request the renewal. If you also changed the address, then it will take 14 to 21 days to process. If your license has been expired for more than two years, then you must take and pass the vision, knowledge and road tests before renewing your license. If this is your first renewal, then you must do it in person. Otherwise, you may renew your drivers license online or you may apply to renew by mail.

Drivers license renewal periods depend on the type of credential you have, as each license type is valid for a different number of years.


Renewing Online

Renewing in Person

You may use the online services only if it is not your first time renewing your drivers license. You may be eligible to renew online only if:

If you are renewing your driving license for the first time, then you must do so in person at a DDS Customer Service Center. You will have to:

Please click here to see a checklist of acceptable Secure ID documentation. Documents must be originals or certified copies.

To confirm that your ID is compliant with Secure ID requirements, check for a gold star printed in the upper right corner of the card. For online drivers license renewal, click here and login. If you do not have an account, then you will need to create one. Your license will arrive by mail within 7 business days after you complete your request online.

You have a Secure ID-compliant license.

Take a new photo.

Pass a vision test (if you are over 64 years of age).

Complete a driver’s license/ID card application.

Present proof of identity, residential address, Social Security, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.

You are 64 years of age or younger.

You are a Georgia resident.

You are a U.S. citizen

You only hold a regular, non-commercial license.

Your license has not been expired for more than two years.

Your driver’s license is not suspended, cancelled or revoked.

You have a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover).


https://online.dds.ga.gov/onlineservices/licenserenewalintro.aspx



Renewing by MailThe option to renew your Georgia driver license by mail is limited to specific situations. If you are not eligible to renew by mail, then you must do so online or in person. To submit a mail-in drivers license renewal, you must be:

If you qualify, then please find the mail-in application package here. It takes approximately 10 days for the mail-in drivers license renewal request to be processed. Since applications are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis, try to submit your package at least 30 days before your license expires.

Stationed out of state in the military or be the dependent of a military personnel stationed out of state.

Attending school out of Georgia or the dependent of a resident attending school out of state.

Temporarily working out of state or a dependent of a worker temporarily out of state.

Physically incapacitated and unable to visit a DDS Customer Service Center.

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/mailinrenewal012017.pdf


Updating Your

License or Identification Card Information

Have you recently moved, changed your name or undergone a change in physical appearance? Then, you will have to update such information at the Georgia Department of Driver Services. You have one free name change or address change during the term of your original driver license. For eligibility, you must request the change at least 150 days before the expiration of the license. Remember that you need to maintain your information updated with the DDS.

All documents must be in English. Let the DDS official at your local office know you need a translator if your documents are in another language. If you are married in Georgia on or after November 1, 1982 and wish to hyphenate your surname and married name, then you must present a certified copy of your marriage license that reflects such changes. If your surname changed due to a marriage outside of Georgia, then you may obtain a license with the hyphenated married surname. To do so, present a certified copy of the marriage license or a marriage certificate form the state where it was issued.

You can only change your name on a Georgia drivers license in person at a DDS Customer Service Center. Find a location nearest you, here. By law, you must update your name within 60 days of the change. If you have changed your name from your original birth record or passport, then you must present certified legal documents that support your name change, such as:

Change Your Name

Marriage certificates.

Divorce decrees.

Adoption papers.

Legal name change by court decrees.



To update your drivers license address online, you must:

If you are ineligible to change your address online or if you prefer visiting a DDS Customer Service Center, then you must comply with the Secure ID requirements. If you do not have a Secure ID license, then you must provide two proofs of residential address. If you do have a Secure ID license, then you will only be required to present one proof of residency. The documents must show your name

Utility bills.

Social Security documentation.

Homeowner insurance policies.

Rent payment receipts.

Online

In Person

You are required to change your address with the DDS within 60 days of moving to your new Georgia residency. You may also change your driver license address when you renew your credentials. There are two methods to change your address in Georgia: online and in person.

and current address. Examples of documents proving residential address are:

You must ensure the DDS has all the following physical appearance details up to date:

If your license is revoked, cancelled or suspended, then you cannot update your driving license address online. To change your address online, go to the Address Change application of the online services, login and follow the instructions.

For a complete list of acceptable documentation, click here. Find a list of DDS Customer Service Center locations here.

Change Your Address

Change Your Phisical Appearance Details

Be a U.S. citizen.

Weight

Height

Eye color

Gender

Be a Georgia resident.

Hold only a non-commercial driver license.

Have created or updated a DDS Online Service Account after June 1, 2013.

https://online.dds.ga.gov/onlineservices/addresschangeintro.aspx





You must visit a DDS Customer Service Center to update your physical details. If you want to update your gender, then you must present a court order or a physician’s letter that certifies your gender change. The document must state your name, date of birth, the date when your gender changed and other relevant information.

FeesThe first time that you change your address or name within 150 days of the license expiration date, you will not pay a fee. If you already received your free change since yourlast renewal, then you may be charged for your additionaladdress or name change. The DDS will let you know how much you must pay. There is no fee to change your physical appearance details.


Replacing a

Lost or Stolen Driver’s License

If your Georgia drivers license is lost or stolen and you are unsure of how to proceed, then this guide will help you learn how to replace your credentials. You may replace your driver’s license at a Department of Driver Services Customer Service location or through the online services. You must submit the request in person if it is your first time replacing a drivers license. Your replacement should arrive within 7 days of submitting your application. To obtain a replacement, you must either bring one document (original or certified copy) from Category A or two from Category B.

TipIf your license was stolen and you reported it to the police, then you can request a new driver’s license number by presenting the police report.


You only need one of the following documents from this category:

If using Category B documents, then you must present two of the following papers:

Category A

Category B

U.S. passport or passport card (with less than 10 years expiration, if expired)

Original or certified copy of marriage license

Original Social Security card

Previous year income tax return

Current automobile registration receipt

Voter registration card

Military orders

Current auto, home, life or health insurance policy

Certified copy of a birth certificate (hospital certificates not accepted)

Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240, DS-1350 or FS 545)

Valid and non-expired Permanent Resident Card (form I-51)

Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)

Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)

Valid or expired military identification card

Valid and non-expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Form I-766 or Form I-688B

Valid and non-expired foreign passport with a valid unexpired U.S. visa affixed and accompanied by the approved I-94 form proving your most recent admittance into the U.S.


FeesYou can only request a replacement drivers license with the same term of your original license. If you request a replacement within 150 days of the expiration date of your license, then it will be processed as a renewal and you will have to pay the fees according to those terms. Otherwise, the driver license replacement fee is $5. If you pay at the DDS, then you may use credit or debit card, cash, money order or check. If you pay online, then you can only use Visa, MasterCard, Discover and American Express credit or debit cards.


Reinstating

Your Driver’s License

Keep this in mind: Driving is a privilege, not a right, and it is a privilege that you may lose. In Georgia, there are three ways in which you may lose your driving privileges:

If your GA drivers license is revoked, then your driving privileges are terminated and removed until the revocation period ends. When the revocation expires, you may apply for a new driving license.

Cancellation

Suspension

Revocation

If you do not give the correct or required information the DDS needs for your license application, then it can cancel your Georgia drivers license. You may apply again once you complete the requirements.

When you are convicted for a traffic offense, your license may be suspended. If you receive a drivers license suspension in Georgia, then your driving privileges are temporarily removed for a specific period. Once the suspension expires, you may reinstate your driver’s license.

In Georgia, your license is revoked if:

• You are declared a habitual violator for any third conviction of a mandatory suspended offense within five years. Your license will be revoked for five years.

• You refuse to have your driving skills or knowledge of driving rules reexamined.

• There is enough evidence to declare you incompetent or unfit to drive because you are incapacitated due to a disease, mental or physical disability, or by alcohol or drug addiction.


Reinstating your license will have different requirements depending on the type of suspension you received. There are many offenses that can cause your GA driver license suspension. The most common are failure to pay child support, driving under the influence (DUI), failure to appear (FTA), no proof of insurance, point violations and super speeder.

Types of Suspensions

Failure to Pay Child Support

Failure to Appear (FTA)

No Proof of Insurance

Points Violations

Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

If you fail to meet your child support obligations, then the Department of Human Services (DHS) will notify the DDS and your Georgia drivers license will be suspended. The DDS will send you a notice to warn you of the suspension and to offer you a grace period to catch up with the obligations before actually suspending your license. The suspension remains until you pay your obligations. To reinstate your license, the DHS must send a release to the DDS. Learn more here.

If you fail to appear in court and do not pay a traffic citation, then your license will be suspended for FTA. The FTA suspension is effective 28 calendar days after the DDS receives the notice. Once the court submits a release to the DDS, you may pay the applicable fees and reinstate your driving privileges.

No matter who the owner of the vehicle is, if you are caught operating it in Georgia without proof of insurance, then your license will be suspended. If this is your first offense, then you may reinstate your driver license if:

The point system in Georgia has convictions that range from one to six points. If you accumulate 15 or more points in 24 months or less, then your license will be suspended. You will also receive a drivers license suspension in Georgia if you are under 21 and are convicted of a four-point violation or if you are under 18 and accumulate four points in 12 months. You may find all convictions and their respective points here. To reinstate your license, you must complete a DDS-approved defensive driving

If you have multiple convictions, then you may reinstate your Georgia driving license if you have had your privileges suspended for 90 days, submit the reinstatement fee and present an SR-22 form that is valid for three years.

When you are 21 or older and convicted of a DUI, your license or driving privileges may be suspended or revoked from 120 days up to five years. The term of suspension will depend on your driving record. If you are convicted in another state, then your license may also be suspended or revoked. Your license may be reinstated if:

For additional information concerning DUI charges, you can click here.

This is your first offense.

The license was suspended for 60 days.

You show proof of insurance.

You pay the reinstatement fee.

Pay the reinstatement fee.

You present a certificate of completion of a DDS-approved DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program.

https://childsupport.georgia.gov

https://dds.georgia.gov/points-and-points-reduction

https://dds.georgia.gov/duirisk-reduction-information


The following chart of fees apply to each suspension type and method of payment:

Fees

Super Speeder

course and pay the reinstatement fee. The driving course is a six-hour course that teaches you about attitudes and behaviors to drive safely.

You will be issued a $200 fine if the DDS is notified of your conviction for speeding at 75 mph or more on a two-lane road or highway. It also applies if you are speeding at 85 mph or more on any road or highway in Georgia. You have a period of 120 days to pay the fee to the DDS. If you do not pay, then your license will be suspended and you will have to pay the reinstatement fee in addition to the $200 fee if you want to reinstate your license.

Child support non-compliance

• $25 by mail• $35 in person

DUI (first offense for age 21 and over)


FTA

• $90 by mail or online• $100 in person

No proof of insurance (first offense)


Points Violation (first offense)


Points Violation (second offense)


Points Violation (third offense)


Super Speeder

• $450 by mail or online (after mandatory $200 fee)

No proof of insurance (second offense or more



Present proof of identity, such as your birth certificate or passport.

Pay by Mail

Pay Online

Pay in Person

You must send the Official Notice of Suspension you received from the Department of Driver Services. If you did not receive a notice, then provide your full name, date of birth, driver license number, address and Social Security Number. Include all required documentation, such as the DUI or defensive driving course certificate. Submit your payment using a check, money order or cashier check, payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). If you want to pay by credit card, then include a credit card authorization form. Submit all necessary paperwork to the following address:

You are eligible to pay online only if your license was suspended due to a failure to appear or a super speeder conviction. To pay online, to go the online services application, click on continue after reading the instructions and enter the required information. If you pay online, then you can use Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express credit cards.

If you prefer paying in person, then you must complete the following steps:

To process, you may visit your closest Customer Service Center. At the DDS, you may use credit or debit card, cash, money order or check.

Department of Driver Services (DDS)Validation Unit

Post Office Box 80447Conyers, Georgia 30013

Bring a form of payment for reinstatement fees.

Present all reinstatement documents.

In some situations, such as suspension due to DUI or the first offense in a points’ violation, you may be eligible to obtain a limited driving permit while your license is suspended. The limited driving permit will allow you to:

The DDS will tell you the places you can drive to, the routes you can take, the times you can drive and the vehicles you can use. You cannot use this permit to drive a commercial vehicle. If you violate any GA law or are convicted for violating the restrictions of the permit, then the driving permit will be revoked.

Limited Driving Permit

Drive to your job.

Receive scheduled medical attention or obtain prescribed drugs.

Go to a college or school in which you are enrolled as a student.

Attend sessions or support meetings of alcohol or other drug treatments

Attend a driver education program or alcohol or drug assessment and treatment program.


https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/creditcardauthform.pdf

https://online.dds.ga.gov/OnlineServices/SSIntro.aspx

https://online.dds.ga.gov/OnlineServices/SSIntro.aspx


Getting a

Georgia ID Card

A Georgia ID card works as your main photo identification if you are a non-driver. If you have just moved to the state and want to get a state identification card, then you will need to surrender your out-of-state drivers license. You may hold both a Georgia ID card and driver license, but only one of them may serve as a Secure ID document. Read on to learn more about state identification cards and how to obtain one.


Proof of identity

Proof of identity, residential address and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.

Proof of residential address

Death certificate of the veteran spouse to the Veterans Service

Your spouse’s Armed Forces Separation Papers (DD-214)

Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516)

Full Social Security Number

Full Social Security Number

The Georgia Department of Driver Services offers six types of ID cards for different needs. The application requirement will vary among the type of ID you wish to request. Find the details of each of them below.

you must present the same documents listed above, as well as an original Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516). The DS-516 must be requested from the Georgia Department of Veterans Services, which in turn will ask you for your Armed Forces Separation Papers (DD-214). All documents must be in English. The DDS can provide a translator if needed.

How to Apply

State ID CardHonorary ID Card

Veteran’s ID Card

This card is for people of all ages who are old enough to sign their names or make a mark that works as a signature. To apply, applicants must provide the following:

All documents must be in English and a translator can be provided if needed.

If you are the spouse of a disabled, honorably separated veteran of the U.S. Armed Forced and he or she does not have a driver license, then you may apply for an honorary ID card. You may also apply if your honorably separated veteran spouse died and you are not remarried. To be eligible, you must have had residency in Georgia at the time of your spouse’s enlistment or induction into the service or at least two consecutive years of residency before you apply for the ID. You cannot apply if you have an unexpired license from another state. To apply, you must provide the following documentation:

If you have honorable active duty service in the U.S. Armed Forces or 20 years of service in the National Guard, then you are eligible to apply for a veteran’s ID card. You must also have residency in Georgia at the time of your enlistment or induction into the service or at least two consecutive years before you apply for the ID card. You are not eligible if you have an unexpired license from another state. To apply,

If you have an out-of-state ID, license or permit, then it must be surrendered. If you lost your previous ID or had it stolen, then provide a copy of your driving or motor vehicle record instead. All documents must be in English. Let the DDS official know you need a translator.

Present proof of identity, such as your birth certificate or passport.


To get your ID for persons with disabilities, you need to provide proof of identity, residential address, U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence, and full Social Security Number.

If you apply, then you have to provide proof of residency, identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S., as well as your full Social Security Number. You must also present the voucher obtained from an approved Indigent Resource Provider (non-profit agency).

Georgia Voters ID Card

ID Card for Persons with Disabilities

Indigent ID Card

If you are eligible, then you must present proof of identity, residential address, full Social Security Number and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful presence in the U.S.

You are eligible to get a Georgia voters ID card if:

You can request a handicapped ID card if you:

If you are interested in applying for an indigent ID card you must:

You are at least 18 years of age.

Qualify for indigent status.

You are already registered to vote in Georgia or applying to register to vote as part of the application for an ID card.

You do not have any other acceptable form of identification to vote.

You do not have an unexpired driver’s license or ID card issued in Georgia.

Have a permanent or temporary disability or an urgent medical condition.

Be old enough to sign your name or make a mark indicating your legal signature.

Not have an unexpired license from another state or country.

Are old enough to sign your name or make a mark indicating your legal signature.

Do not have an unexpired license form another state or country.

Have a physician verify your Eligibility for Placement of the Disability (DDS-29) on your certificate of eligibility (does not apply if the permanent disability is obvious).


Your ID’s expiration date is dependent on the terms of the type of identification you hold. You may renew it up to 150 days before it expires or up to two years after. It will approximately seven days after you request the renewal or, if you changed your address, then it will take 14 to 21 days to process.

How to Renew Your ID

Renewing in Person

Renewing by Mail

Renewing Online

If you are renewing your Georgia ID for the first time, then you must do it at a DDS Customer Service Center. You will have to:

You may only use the mail-in renewal if:

You are eligible to renew online only if:

To see a checklist of approved documentation, click here. All documents must be original or certified copies.

If eligible, then go to the online services and login. If you do not have an account, then create one and follow the prompts.

If you are eligible, then you can find the mail-in application package here. It usually takes about 10 days to process. Since applications are processed on a first-come, first-serve basis, try to submit your package at least 30 days before your license expires.

Complete a driver’s license/ID card application.

Take a new photo.

Present proof of identity, residential address, Social Security, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the U.S.

You have a Secure ID-compliant license. To confirm, check that it has a gold star printed in the upper right corner.

You are stationed out of state in the military or are the dependent of military personnel stationed out of state.

Your ID has not been expired for more than two years.

You are attending school out of Georgia or are a dependent of an out-of-state student.

You are physically incapacitated and unable to visit a DDS Customer Service Center.

You are temporarily working out of state or are the dependent of a worker temporarily working out of state.

You have a credit or debit card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover).

You are 64 years of age or younger.


You are a U.S. Citizen.




https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/mailinrenewal012017.pdf


If this is your first time replacing your ID, then you must do it at a DDS customer service location. If it is not the first time, then you may also do it through the online services. To replace your ID you must either bring one document (original or certified copy) from Category A or two from Category B.

How to Replace Your ID Category A

If using Category A documentation, then you only need one of the following files:

Valid and non-expired foreign passport with a valid, unexpired U.S. visa affixed and accompanied by the approved I-94 form proving your most recent admittance into the U.S.

U.S. passport or passport card (expired for less than 10 years, if expired)

Certified copy of a birth certificate (hospital certificates are not acceptable)

Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240, DS-1350 or FS 545)

Valid and non-expired Permanent Resident Card (form I-551)

Valid and non-expired Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Form I-766 or Form I-688B

Valid or expired military identification card

Certificate of Naturalization (Form N-550 or N-570)

Certificate of Citizenship (Form N-560 or N-561)

https://online.dds.ga.gov/OnlineServices/LostLicenseIntro.aspx


Category B

Change Your Name

If using Category B documents, then two of the following are required:

According to Georgia law, you must update your name within 60 days of the change. This can only be done at a DDS Customer Service Center location. Find all the locations here. To change your name, you must present certified legal documents that proof your name change such as:

All the documents must be in English. Let the DDS Official know if you need a translator. If you married on or after November 1, 1982 in Georgia and want to hyphenate your surname and married name, then present a certified copy of your marriage license reflecting the hyphenated surname. If you got married outside of Georgia, then you may obtain a license with the hyphenated married surname if you provide a certified copy of the marriage license or a marriage certificate from the state where it was issued.

Original or certified copy of marriage license

Original Social Security card

Previous year income tax returnMarriage certificate

Divorce decree

Adoption papers

Legal name change (court decree)

Current automobile registration receipt

Voter registration card

Military orders

Current auto, home, life or health insurance policy

If updating your Georgia ID, then keep in mind that you have one free name or address change during the term of your original (first) identification card. To get the free update, you must request the change at least 150 days before the expiration of the ID.

How to Update Your ID



Change Your Address

Change Your Physical Appearance Details

Online

In Person

In Person

Remember you must notify the DDS to update your address change within 60 days after you moved. If you prefer, you may change your address when you renew your ID.

If you want to change your weight, height, eye color or gender on your license, then you must visit a DDS Customer Service Center. To change your gender, you must present a court order or a physician’s letter that certifies your gender change. It must include your name, date of birth, the date when your gender was changed and other relevant information.

Go to the Address Change application of the online services, login and follow the prompts.

You may update your address online if:

To change your address in person, you must comply with the Secure ID requirements. If you do not have a Secure ID license, then you must provide two proofs of residential address. Otherwise, you will only need one. The documents must show your name and current address. Proof of residential address includes:

The fees to get the IDs will depend on the term and the type of ID that you choose. If you pay at the DDS, then you may use credit or debit card, cash, money order or check. If you pay online, then you may use Discover, Visa, American Express or MasterCard. If you renew online, then you will get a $5 discount applied. The applying and renewing fees are the same:

• Georgia ID card: $32• Voter ID card: No fee• Honorary ID card: No fee• Veteran ID card (combat): No fee• Veteran ID card (non-combat): $32• Veteran handicapped ID card: No fee• Handicapped ID card: $5• Indigent ID card: $5

If you request a replacement within 150 days of the expiration date of your ID, then it will be processed as a renewal and you will have to pay the fees above. Your first update is free. If you already updated any information, then you may be charged. The DDS will let you know how much you must pay.

You are a U.S. citizen.

Social Security documentation


Rent payment receipt

Homeowner’s insurance policy

Utility bills

You have created or updated a DDS Online Service Account after June 1, 2013.



Vehicle

Safety Tips

Before getting behind the wheel, it is important that the vehicle is prepared for any trip. This means checking the safety features and making any needed changes to your vehicle to guarantee a safe drive.

One of the essentials to safe driving is having a basic emergency kit available in your vehicle at all times. This kit should include items such as water, extra batteries, rope, a first aid kit, matches and a whistle. During the winter months, it is also important to carry items such as blankets, non-perishable foods, extra gloves and socks and a shovel.

Emergency Kit


One of the most dangerous times to drive is during the winter, especially if you live in an area that snows or is prone to ice. Consider these tips below to drive safely during the winter.

Winter Driving

Don’t Rush!

Don’t Panic if You Skid or Slip

Check Your Vehicle

Roads are often covered in snow and ice after it snows. Instead of driving fast and risking an accident as you hurry to get to your destination, try leaving a few minutes earlier than usual. This will allow you to drive slower and avoid other dangerous drivers without being late for your appointment.

In the event that your vehicle does skid or slip while driving, make sure you do not panic and slam down on your brakes. Instead, apply slow and even pressure on your brakes until you stop. This will prevent you from spinning further out of control.

Before leaving your house, make sure your vehicle’s controls, brakes, tank, tires, antifreeze and exhaust are all in working order. It is also important that you remove any ice and snow from your car before you begin driving, which prevents snow from blocking your view while you drive.


Every year thousands are killed as a result of drinking and driving. These events can be prevented if you plan ahead of time and take certain steps to avoid such behaviors. Before you begin drinking, arrange for someone else to be the designated driver. If they also become intoxicated, then take a taxi or order a ride from a ride sharing app. Never allow someone drunk to drive. Instead, take away their keys and call for alternative transportation. If you see someone who you suspect is drunk and showing signs of intoxication while driving – such as making wide turns, weaving, swerving, breaking erratically or turning abruptly – contact the appropriate authorities immediately. Also, make sure to avoid them on the road to ensure your own safety. This could mean pulling over until they are at a safe distance from your car.

Driving while using your cell phone is one of the most dangerous things you can do. During those few seconds that your attention is diverted to your phone, a major accident could occur. Avoid texting, browsing the internet and receiving calls while you drive to prevent accidents.

Drinking and Driving

Using Your Phone


Driving is not always a relaxing experience. There are certain actions that can be a danger to you while driving on the road. These things are often avoidable if you make sure to take preventative measures to stop accidents before they occur.

If you drive often, then start looking for ways to save on those expensive trips to the gas pump. Saving on gasoline is possible if you take the following tips into consideration when operating your vehicle:

• Turn off the air conditioning when it is not in use.• Do not leave your engine running when the car is parked.• Do not speed above 60 mph.

Another way to save on gas is to make sure that your vehicle is functioning properly. You can do this by checking that your tires are properly inflated, your engine is well-tuned and that the octane level is correct according to your vehicle’s needs.

Both aggressive driving and drivers should be avoided to prevent on-road aggression or accidents. Aggressive driving is categorized as exhibiting behaviors such as tailgating, verbal or physical harassment towards another driver or preventing another driver from merging or passing. If you are an aggressive driver, then you are putting others at risk every time you engage in any of the previously listed behaviors. When you encounter a frustrating situation on the road, instead of becoming aggressive, take a moment, breathe and continue moving.

Things to Avoid

Wasting Gas

Aggressive Driving

Car Accidents

One way to avoid car accidents is to ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive so as not to cause any mechanical failures. To do this, regularly check that your brakes are functioning properly, your tires are inflated and not worn out and that the steering and suspensions are checked by a mechanic.


Official

Forms

Application for Issuance of Non-Commercial License Click here

Application for Placement of Medical/Disability Information on License/Permit/ Identification Card Click here

Application for Veterans Driver’s License / Identification Card Click here

Affidavit for Identification Card for Voting Purposes Click here

Hearing Request Form Click here

Vision Report Click here

Driver Training School Parental Affidavit Click here

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/ds-36.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DDS-29-12610.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DS-516.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DDS-579.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/HearingRequestForm.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DDS-MR-274.pdf

https://dds.georgia.gov/sites/dds.georgia.gov/files/related_files/document/DDS-DS-7010.pdf


DMV

Hours and Locations

There are several options available for you in case you need to visit or contact a DDS office. You may find all the customer service center locations here. You can sort them by city and by county. If you prefer to filter the locations by services offered, you may click here. You can also find a list of all the office holidays and closings here.

Whenever possible, try to take advantage of the DDS online services. Most transactions are available online and do not require extra fees for the use of such services. If you need to contact the DDS for any other purposes, then you can visit their main office at the following address:

You may also contact them through the contact center from Monday through Friday 7 a.m. to 5:15 p.m., although the lines are closed between 12:30 and 1 p.m. The following numbers are available for phone calls:

If you want to check your license status, then you may call (404) 657-9300 anytime. You can also send your complaints or compliments to this page.

Department of Driver Services

Post Office Box 80447Conyers, Georgia 30013

(678) 413-8400 (678) 413-8500 (678) 413-8600


https://dds.georgia.gov/find-location/customer-service-center

https://dds.georgia.gov/dds-office-closure-calendar?con=1743271759&ty=dl

https://online.dds.ga.gov/feedback/