If you are a new resident of the state of Georgia, you should know that the Georgia Department of Driver Services is the office in charge of the different procedures related to your vehicle, driver’s license application, identification card and more.
When applying for a Georgia driver’s license, you must begin the process within 30 days of becoming a new resident. If you have an out-of-state license, please note that all Customer Service Centers can transfer an out-of-state license or identification card to the state of Georgia.
What do I need to apply for a Georgia driver’s license?
The Class C driver’s license is the general driver’s license in the state of Georgia. To apply for it, you must submit the following required documents.
- Submit documentation verifying your identity, residential address and U.S. citizenship or proof of legal status in the United States.
- Provide your full social security number on the online license/identification/permit form.
- You must submit any driver’s license, permit or identification card from another state.
- Also, all documents must be submitted in English.
Steps to apply for a Georgia driver’s license
At the time of your visit, please note that all clients visiting a facility must submit the required online License/Identification/Permission form.
- Log on from https://dds.drives.ga.gov/ to submit your form online.
- Show all your documents.
- Pass the eye exam.
- If you are getting a license for the first time, you must: pass a knowledge test, Road Skills test, have your photo taken and pay the license fee.
- If you are under 18, you may visit Teen Driver for additional information.
- If you are transferring a license from another state or country, you may do so within 30 days of becoming a resident.
What is the cost of a driver’s license in Georgia?
If you decide to apply for a new driver’s license as a Georgia resident, you should be aware that as of July 1, 2022 the fees are as follows.
- For replacement of lost licenses or permits: $10
- For issuance of limited driver’s licenses: $32
- For renewal of Limited Driver’s Permits: $10
Forms of payment accepted by the Georgia Department of Driver Services DDS are cash, credit cards, debit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay. DDS online services and the DDS 2 GO mobile app only accept credit or debit cards.
Under 18 Drivers License
The State of Georgia has a graduated driver licensing program for young drivers between the ages of 15 and 18.
This consists of an intense three-step educational process that allows the young driver to gain more experience behind the wheel with certain restrictions in place. As you complete the requirements of your current permit or license, you are allowed to graduate to a less restrictive license and eventually receive a full unrestricted license.