USA Georgia Driver License

Georgia Driver’s License: 2025 Guide for New Drivers and Residents

Need a Georgia Driver’s License? Whether you’re a first-time driver, a new resident of Georgia, or renewing your current license, this step-by-step guide walks you through everything you need to know from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).

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How to Get a Georgia Driver’s License

Step 1: Choose the License Type
Most individuals apply for a Class C license, which is for personal passenger vehicles. Georgia also offers licenses for motorcycles (Class M), commercial vehicles (CDL), and permits for teens and new drivers.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents
To apply for a new license, bring the following to a DDS Customer Service Center:

• Proof of identity (e.g., valid U.S. passport or certified birth certificate)
• Social Security number (e.g., SSN card or W-2)
• Two documents proving Georgia residency (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
• Proof of lawful U.S. presence (if applicable)

Step 3: Take the Required Tests
If you’re a new driver, you’ll need to:

• Pass a vision exam
• Pass the knowledge test based on the Georgia Driver’s Manual
• Pass the road test (driving test)

Teens and new drivers under 18 must follow Georgia’s Joshua’s Law program:

• Complete an approved driver’s ed course
• Hold a learner’s permit (Class CP) for at least 12 months and 1 day
• Log 40+ hours of supervised driving (6 hours at night)

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New Georgia Residents

If you’ve moved to Georgia, you must transfer your out-of-state driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency.

You’ll need to visit a DDS office with:

• Your valid out-of-state license
• Required identity, SSN, and residency documents
• Pass a vision test (written and road tests may be waived if your license is valid and in good standing)

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Renewing a Georgia Driver’s License

Georgia licenses are valid for 8 years and can be renewed:

• Online at dds.georgia.gov
• By mail (if eligible)
• In person at a DDS office

Some renewals may require a vision screening or updated photo.

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Georgia REAL ID (Secure DL)

Starting May 7, 2025, a REAL ID-compliant license will be required to fly domestically or enter federal buildings. Georgia’s REAL ID is known as a Secure DL and has a gold star in the top right corner.

To get one, bring:

• Proof of identity/legal presence
• Social Security number
• Two documents showing Georgia residency

REAL ID upgrades must be done in person.

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Georgia Driver’s License Fees (2025)

Service	Fee (Approx.)
Class C License (8 years)	$32
Learner’s Permit (Class CP)	$10
Provisional License (Class D)	$10
License Renewal (8 years)	$32
REAL ID Upgrade	Included with issuance/renewal
Replacement/Duplicate License	$5–$10

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Required Documents Checklist

• U.S. birth certificate or passport
• SSN card, W-2, or paystub with full SSN
• Two proof-of-residency documents
• Completed license application (online or in person)

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Georgia DDS Services

• License issuance and renewals
• Learner’s permits and teen licensing (Joshua’s Law)
• Out-of-state license transfers
• REAL ID / Secure DL processing
• Road tests and vision screenings
• Address and name changes

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For more information, visit the official DDS website or schedule your appointment online.