A Georgia driver's license holds great significance. As stipulated by the Georgia Code Section 40-5-20, individuals must have a valid driver's license appropriate for the type of vehicle they are operating to drive on the state's highways legally.
The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) issues this essential document. It established guidelines for new drivers, commercial drivers, and those from other states. These guidelines cover a wide range of topics, including license application, renewal, replacement, etc., each with unique requirements and procedures.
New applicants and current license holders must thoroughly comprehend and adhere to Georgia's specific regulations. By staying informed about these processes, drivers can ensure compliance with the law and be well-prepared for any changes or updates in licensing regulations.
What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Georgia?
The Georgia DDS issues two main types of driver's licenses:
Non-Commercial Driver's Licenses
Non-commercial driver's licenses in Georgia cater to the diverse needs of motorists who operate vehicles for personal, recreational, or agricultural purposes. These include:
- Class C - This license is the standard non-commercial driver's license in the state. It allows individuals to operate any self-propelled or towed vehicle that serves as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel purposes, regardless of the vehicle's weight rating.
- Class D (Provisional For Class C) - The Class D license is a provisional license designed for young drivers aged 16. Holders of this license have certain restrictions during the first year, such as limits on driving hours and passenger restrictions, which gradually ease over time.
- Class E - This license permits the operation of any vehicle combination with a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) equal to 26,001 pounds or more, given that the vehicle being towed is over 10,000 pounds. It is tailored for farmers transporting agricultural products, livestock, farm machinery, or supplies to or from a farm and is not used for common or contract carrier operations.
- Class F - The Class F license typically refers to a license for non-commercial vehicles, such as personal cars, trucks, and vans. It allows individuals to operate any single vehicle with a 26,001 pounds GVWR or more or any such vehicle towing a trailer not exceeding 10,000 pounds.
- Class M (Motorcycles) - This license allows motorcyclists to legally operate their vehicles on Georgia roads and ensures they have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely navigate two- or three-wheeled motor vehicles.
Commercial Driver's Licenses
Georgia's commercial driver's licenses (CDLs) play a vital role in facilitating the safe and efficient operation of commercial vehicles across the state. These encompass:
- Class C (Commercial) - The Class C CDL is issued for specific commercial purposes. Specifically, it is for drivers of vehicles designed to carry 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or used to transport hazardous materials requiring a placard.
- Class B (Commercial) - The Class B CDL permits individuals to operate single vehicles whose GVWR is 26,001 pounds or more or any such vehicle towing another vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR. Holders of this license can also operate vehicles under Class C but not those in Class A.
- Class A (Commercial) - The Class A CDL authorizes individuals to operate any vehicle combination whose GVWR is equal to or over 26,001 pounds, given that the vehicle(s) towed has a GVWR of 10,000 pounds. This license also permits the operation of vehicles under Class B CDL and Class C CDL.
How To Obtain a Driver's License in Georgia?
Obtaining a Georgia driver's license involves several sequential steps to ensure safe and responsible driving on the state's roads.
Prospective drivers wishing to obtain the regular Class C license must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being at least 18 years old and providing necessary documents.
For individuals under 18, complying with the Teenage & Adult Driver Responsibility Act (TADRA) is necessary to obtain a learner's permit. Once they have obtained the learner's permit, they can begin practicing driving under the supervision of a licensed adult.
After completing the required practice hours, applicants can visit a Georgia DDS office to take the required tests. Upon passing these tests, individuals can apply for their Georgia driver's license by submitting the necessary documentation and paying the required fee.
Georgia's Teenage and Adult Driver Responsibility Act (TADRA)
TADRA, a driver's licensing program in Georgia, caters to young drivers aged between 15 and 18. Its primary goal is to provide a structured and educational process for these drivers to gain driving experience while prioritizing safety for themselves and others on the road.
TADRA follows a three-step progression, starting with a learner's permit. This permit can be obtained by young drivers aged 15 by passing a written examination. While holding a learner's permit, they must always be accompanied by a passenger who is at least 21 years old and possesses a valid Class C driver's license when driving.
After 12 months and reaching 16, drivers can progress to an intermediate license (Class D) by passing a driving test. However, certain restrictions apply to ensure safety, such as no driving between midnight and 6 AM and limitations on the number of passengers.
To obtain a full unrestricted license (Class C), drivers must be 18 years old, hold an intermediate license for 12 months without major traffic convictions, and complete a driver education course approved by the Georgia DDS.
Vision Exam, Knowledge Exam, and Road Skills Test
To obtain a driver's license in Georgia, applicants must pass prerequisite assessments, which include the vision exam, knowledge exam, and road skills test.
Vision Exam
A vision exam is required when obtaining a driver's license in Georgia to ensure the safety of both the driver and others on the road. This examination uses a mechanical device to assess visual acuity and field of vision.
Applicants must meet specific visual standards to qualify for a driver's license. The minimum acceptable vision is 20/60 in at least one eye, with or without corrective lenses. Additionally, applicants must have a field of vision of at least 140 degrees.
If an applicant fails the field vision exam, they must obtain a Vision Report Form (DS-MR-274). This form serves as an official document and must be completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Knowledge Exam
The Knowledge Exam in Georgia is comprised of two tests: the Road Rules Test and the Road Signs Test.
The Road Rules Test evaluates knowledge of driver responsibility, laws, and safe driving practices tailored to the class of license the applicant is seeking. This test is available in non-English languages to cater to applicants with diverse language backgrounds. Refer to this list of supported languages for further information.
On the other hand, the Road Signs Test assesses the ability to recognize and interpret standard highway signs, signals, and markers. This test is conducted exclusively in English, as all drivers must be able to read and understand simple English as used in traffic and directional signs.
Both tests require a minimum score of 15 out of 20 correct answers for a passing grade.
Applicants can prepare for the Knowledge Exam by studying the DDS Driver's Manual or the Commercial Driver's Manual. Additionally, a Practice Test is available on the Georgia DDS website at no cost, offering a valuable resource for test preparation.
Those with reading disabilities can request an oral test option. Individuals can arrange for an oral test by visiting or contacting a Customer Service Center (CSC).
Note that each CSC has different days and times for administering oral tests. To ensure sufficient time for testing and issuance, applicants must begin the Knowledge Exam at least 30 minutes before the CSC closes for non-commercial tests and at least 45 minutes before closure for Commercial Driver's License knowledge tests.
Road Skills Test
The Road Skills Test is an essential evaluation of a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely on public roads.
Before taking the test, all vehicles utilized must have liability insurance. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of valid insurance and undergo a safety vehicle inspection.
Familiarity with hand signals is also necessary for vehicles lacking turn signals. Presenting current vehicle registration, with the license plate being non-expired, is mandatory.
The Road Skills Test is conducted exclusively in English and can be undertaken either through a virtual or traditional format.
In the virtual test, an Examiner remotely administers the evaluation via dual-facing cameras and a hands-free cellular device. A responsible adult, aged 21 or above with a valid driver's license, must accompany the applicant as a passenger during this assessment. Conversely, the traditional test involves an Examiner seated in the passenger seat of the testing vehicle.
During the test, applicants are expected to perform a series of maneuvers outlined in the Road Skills Test Overview. Upon completion, the license examiner provides the applicant with their score sheet and allows ample time for discussion if needed. To pass, applicants must achieve a minimum score of 75%.
If applicants fail, they must wait at least one day to retest. Subsequent failures require a waiting period of at least seven days. If an applicant fails the Road Skills Test due to a traffic accident or receives a traffic violation during the test, a 30-day waiting period for retesting applies.
To schedule a road test, individuals can utilize the online appointment system provided by the Georgia DDS.
Documentary Requirements For Obtaining a Georgia Driver's License
Apart from the required tests, applicants must submit necessary documents when obtaining a driver's license in Georgia. These include:
- Form for License/ID/Permit (can be completed online using the Georgia DDS Online Services )
- Proof of identity
- Proof of residential address
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful status in the U.S.
- Social Security number
- Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) (if the applicant has a driver's license issued from another state)
Refer to this Real-ID Document List to learn about the accepted documents.
Georgia Driver's License Fees
Obtaining a Georgia driver's license has accompanying fees. These fees vary based on the type of license being applied for and other services that may charge additional costs. For a detailed guide about these fees, visit the Fees and Terms page on the Georgia DDS.
These fees can be settled at any Georgia DDS CSC, through DDS Online Services, or using the DDS 2 Go Mobile App. Accepted payment methods include cash, credit/debit cards, as well as Apple and Google Pay wallets. Major cards such as American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are all accepted.
How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Georgia?
In Georgia, certain instances arise that require the renewal or replacement of a driver's license. In such cases, individuals must follow procedures to complete the process successfully.
Renewal of Georgia Driver's License
Renewing a Georgia driver's license is straightforward and can be completed through various channels. Individuals can renew their license up to 150 days before the expiration date. However, the permanent license may take up to 45 days to be delivered.
For those preferring the convenience of online renewal, logging in or creating a customer account is necessary to initiate the renewal process. However, certain criteria must be met to be eligible, such as being a Georgia resident, at least 18 years old, and a U.S. citizen with a current Georgia Real ID document.
Alternatively, renewal can be done in person at designated DDS Customer Service Centers. Applicants must submit the required License/ID/Permit Form and other required documents and be prepared to take a new photo during their visit. In some cases, additional testing may be required.
Under limited circumstances, the Georgia DDS offers renewal by mail options for those unable to renew their licenses in person. This method requires a complete application package and usually takes about thirty days to process.
Replacement of Georgia Driver's License
Individuals can replace their Georgia driver's license if it's damaged, lost, or stolen. The replacement process can be completed online or in-person.
For online replacement, individuals must be Georgia residents and U.S. citizens, possess a current Real ID document, and have a non-commercial license being replaced. If these requirements are met, the replacement process can be initiated by logging in or creating an account through DDS Online Services.
For those preferring in-person replacement, a complete License/ID/Permit form is required. In addition, one original or certified document from Category A and two documents from Category B must be presented.
Category A Documents
- Valid U.S. Passport
- Birth Certificate
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- Expired Georgia DL (identification card and permit are accepted)
- Valid Permanent Resident Card
- Valid Employment Authorization Document
- Valid Foreign Passport with U.S. visa affixed
- Certificate of Naturalization
- Certificate of Citizenship
Category B Documents
- Marriage License
- Social Security Card
- Previous Year Income Tax Return
- Auto, Home, Life, or Health Insurance Card or Policy
- Vehicle Registration Receipt
- Voter Registration
- Military ID, Veterans Affairs Card, or Military Orders
- Georgia Gun Permit
- Notice of Action with Case Type I-90
- Transportation Worker Identification Credential
To avoid potential issues, documents must be in English, and the name on the Driver's License must match.
What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Georgia?
A driver's license can be suspended in Georgia for several reasons. It can be due to super speeder violations, failure to pay child support, driving under the influence, failure to appear in court, no proof of insurance, and points violations.
Under state law, individuals caught driving with a suspended license can face jail time. Repeat offenders can be sentenced to up to a year in prison, while first-time offenders must spend at least two days in jail and pay a minimum fine of $500. In addition, their license will be suspended for an additional six months on top of the previous suspension.
To reinstate a suspended license in Georgia, individuals must meet certain requirements. These include paying the necessary fees, such as the $200 Super Speeder fee for certain speeding convictions, completing defensive driving classes and assessment or treatment programs if applicable, and submitting all necessary documents and forms.
Can Someone Drive in Georgia With a Foreign License?
Holders of foreign driver's licenses can drive for tourism or business purposes in Georgia, provided their license is valid. However, when doing so, law enforcement may verify its legitimacy with a passport or visa.
If the foreign resident establishes residency in the state, obtaining a Georgia driver's license within thirty days is required. Non-US citizens would be considered residents of Georgia if they accept employment in Georgia and enroll their children in a school within ten days after starting employment or if they have been in the state for 30 or more days.
Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Georgia?
A foreigner can get a driver's license in Georgia, provided they meet certain requirements.
As mentioned above, a non-US citizen can obtain a Georgia driver's license within 30 days after establishing residency in the state. After that, they can proceed with the application process by passing the required exams and submitting the necessary documents.
Non-US citizens who wish to obtain a Georgia license are required to present their Foreign License or Identification card during the application process. In most situations, their foreign licenses or IDs will be returned to them.
However, these documents must be surrendered if the non-US citizen is applying for a CDL or already holds a license, ID, or permit from another US state or the District of Columbia.
Additionally, non-US citizens must provide valid immigration documents as proof of their identity and lawful status in the US.
If eligible, applicants are also required to provide their Social Security number or a certification of Social Security denial status. For non-citizens authorized to work in the US, a Social Security number based on their work authorization is necessary.
For more information or guidance when obtaining a Georgia driver's license as a foreigner, contact the Georgia DDS Help Line at (678) 413-8400.
Table of Contents
- What Are the Types of Driver's Licenses in Georgia?
- How To Obtain a Driver's License in Georgia?
- How To Renew or Replace a Driver's License in Georgia?
- What Happens if a Driver's License Is Suspended in Georgia?
- Can Someone Drive in Georgia With a Foreign License?
- Can a Foreigner Get a Driver's License in Georgia?