How to Renew Your Georgia Driver's License

What You Need to Know About Georgia License Renewal

Georgia lets you renew your driver's license online, by mail, or in person at a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office. Which method you can use depends on how close you are to your expiration date and whether your license is still valid. Most people can renew online or by mail without visiting an office, but some situations require an in-person visit.

Your Georgia license is valid for eight years from the date it was issued. You can begin the renewal process up to one year before it expires. If your license has already expired, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must go to a DDS office in person.

Key Takeaways

Online renewal through the Georgia DDS website is the fastest option if your license is not yet expired and you have not changed your address, name, or other key information.
Mail renewal takes about two to three weeks and requires you to send in your current license along with a completed form, but you avoid a trip to the office.
In-person renewal at a DDS office is required if your license has expired, you need to update your photo, or you have changed your address or legal name.
You will need to pay a renewal fee, which varies depending on the type of license and whether you choose a standard or REAL ID-compliant license.
Georgia does not mail renewal reminders, so you are responsible for tracking your expiration date and starting the process before it passes.

Renewing Online Through the Georgia DDS Website

Online renewal is the quickest option and requires no trip to an office or waiting in line. You can renew online at dds.georgia.gov if your current license has not expired, your address and name have not changed, and you do not need a new photo. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

To renew online, you will need your current Georgia driver's license number, your Social Security number, and a valid payment method (debit or credit card). You will also need to answer security questions based on your personal history. Once you complete the online form and pay the renewal fee, your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Online renewal is not available if you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), a motorcycle endorsement, or a hazmat endorsement. You also cannot renew online if you are renewing a license that was suspended or revoked, or if you have outstanding traffic violations or child support obligations.

Renewing by Mail

Mail renewal is an option if your license has not expired and you do not need to update your photo, address, or name. You will need to read and print the renewal form from the Georgia DDS website, complete it by hand, and mail it along with your current license and the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.

The mailing address and specific form you need depend on your county of residence. Visit dds.georgia.gov and search for your county to find the correct form and mailing address. Mail renewal typically takes two to three weeks from the time the DDS office receives your materials. You can track your process status online using your driver's license number.

Do not send cash through the mail. Pay by check or money order made out to the Georgia Department of Driver Services. Include a copy of your check or money order receipt with your process so you have proof of payment.

Renewing in Person at a DDS Office

You must renew in person if your license has expired, if you need to update your photo, or if you have changed your legal name or address since your license was issued. You will also need to visit an office in person if you are renewing a CDL, adding an endorsement, or if you have any active suspensions or violations on your record.

To renew in person, bring your current Georgia driver's license (or expired license if it has been less than five years since expiration), proof of your current address, and payment for the renewal fee. Proof of address can be a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days. If you are changing your name, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).

Visit the Georgia DDS website to find the office nearest you and check current wait times. Many offices allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can significantly reduce your wait time. Walk-ins are accepted, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Offices are typically less busy early in the morning and mid-week.

Renewal Fees and License Types

The renewal fee for a standard Georgia driver's license is $32 for an eight-year renewal. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal travel and entry to federal buildings), the fee is $35. REAL ID licenses have a gold star in the upper right corner and are valid for the same eight-year period.

If you are renewing a commercial driver's license, the fee is higher and varies based on the type and number of endorsements you hold. Check the Georgia DDS website or call your local office for the exact fee for your situation. Fees are subject to change, so confirm the current amount before you submit payment.

Payment methods vary by renewal method. Online renewal accepts debit and credit cards. Mail renewal requires a check or money order. In-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at most offices, though some locations may have different payment options.

What Happens After You Renew

After you renew online or by mail, your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue to drive using your current license until the new one arrives. If you renew in person, you will receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is being produced and mailed.

If your new license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Georgia DDS to check the status. You can look up your process online using your driver's license number, or call the DDS customer service line. If your license is lost or damaged in the mail, the DDS can reissue it at no additional cost.

Scam Alert: Fake Renewal Notices and Phishing

Be aware that scammers send fake renewal notices by email or text claiming to be from the Georgia DDS. These messages often include a link to a fake website that looks like the real DDS site and ask you to enter your license number, Social Security number, and payment information. The real Georgia DDS does not send unsolicited emails or texts asking you to renew your license.

If you receive an email or text about your license renewal, do not click any links. Instead, go directly to dds.georgia.gov by typing the address into your browser yourself. Never give your Social Security number or payment information to anyone who contacts you first. If you are unsure whether a message is real, call the Georgia DDS directly at the number listed on your current license or on the official website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license if it has been expired for more than five years?

No. If your license has been expired for more than five years, you must explore for a new license rather than renew. This requires an in-person visit to a DDS office, a new written test, and a new driving test. Contact your local DDS office for the full list of documents and fees required.

What if I changed my address but do not want to renew my license yet?

You can update your address without renewing your license by visiting a DDS office in person or by mailing in a change-of-address form. Visit the Georgia DDS website to read the form and find the mailing address for your county. Address changes by mail typically take one to two weeks to process.

Do I need a REAL ID license to drive in Georgia?

A standard Georgia driver's license is sufficient for driving within the state. However, starting May 7, 2025, you will need a REAL ID-compliant license or passport to board a domestic flight or enter a federal building. If you plan to fly domestically, consider upgrading to a REAL ID license during your renewal.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

You must renew in person and bring a certified copy of the document showing your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order). The DDS will issue a new license with your updated name. You cannot change your name through online or mail renewal.

How do I check the status of my renewal process?

Visit the Georgia DDS website and use the process status tool. You will need your driver's license number and date of birth. If you renewed by mail or in person, you can also call your local DDS office directly to ask about your process status.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.