Renewing your driver's license in Georgia is a straightforward process, but it requires careful attention to detail and preparation. Whether you choose to renew online, by mail, or in person, understanding the requirements and steps involved will help ensure a smooth renewal experience. This guide will provide you with all the necessary information to successfully renew your Georgia driver's license.
Eligibility for Renewal
Before you begin the renewal process, it is essential to determine your eligibility. You can renew your Georgia driver's license if:
- Your license is currently valid or expired for no more than two years.
- You have not changed your name since your last renewal (if you have, additional documentation will be required).
- Your license has not been suspended, canceled, or revoked.
- You are a U.S. citizen or can provide documentation of your legal presence in the U.S.
- You are younger than 64 years of age if you plan to renew online.
If you meet these criteria, you can choose from three methods to renew your license: online, by mail, or in person.
1. Renewing Online
Renewing your driver's license online is the most convenient option, provided you meet specific requirements:
Requirements for Online Renewal
- You must be younger than 64 years of age.
- You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Your existing license must comply with Secure ID requirements (look for a gold star in the upper right-hand corner).
- Your license must be currently valid or expired no longer than two years.
- Your license must not have been suspended, canceled, or revoked.
- You have not changed your name since your last renewal.
- You renewed in person at a DDS Customer Service Center the last time.
- You can pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.
Steps to Renew Online
- Visit the License/Identification Card Renewal webpage of the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS).
- Log in or register for an account.
- Pay the renewal fee of $27.00 using a credit or debit card.
- After processing, which takes about 7 days, your new license will be mailed to you.
2. Renewing by Mail
If you are unable to renew online, you may qualify to renew your license by mail under specific conditions:
Eligibility for Mail Renewal
You can renew by mail if:
- You have not changed your name.
- You renewed in person at a DDS Customer Service Center the last time.
- One of the following applies to you:
- You are out of Georgia on military duty or a dependent of someone who is.
- You are attending school out of state or a dependent of someone who is.
- You are temporarily working out of state or a dependent of someone who is.
- You are physically incapacitated and cannot visit any DDS Customer Service Center.
Steps to Renew by Mail
- Download the renew-by-mail application package from the DDS website.
- Fill out the forms completely.
- Include your payment of the $32.00 renewal fee (payable by card, check, or money order).
- Mail the completed forms and payment to the address provided in the application package.
- Your new license will be mailed to you, typically within ten days of processing.
3. Renewing in Person
If you do not qualify for online or mail renewal, you must renew your driver's license in person at a DDS Customer Service Center. This is also the required method if:
- You are applying for your first renewal.
- Your license has been suspended, canceled, or revoked.
- Your most recent Georgia driver's license expired more than two years ago (you will need to retake the driver’s test).
- You are age 64 or older.
- Your current license is not Secure ID compliant.
- You have changed your name.
- You are not a U.S. citizen.
Required Documentation for In-Person Renewal
When renewing in person, you must bring specific documentation to verify your identity and residency:
- Proof of Identification: Acceptable documents include:
- A U.S. passport.
- A certified birth certificate.
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For non-citizens, a Green Card or a valid foreign passport with a U.S. Visa.
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Proof of Social Security Number: You can provide:
- Your Social Security card.
- A recent pay stub displaying your Social Security number.
- A Social Security statement (SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S).
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A tax form (W-2, 1099, or 1040).
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Two Forms of Proof of Georgia Residency: Acceptable documents include:
- Utility bills.
- Mortgage statements.
- Bank statements.
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Other official documents showing your name and Georgia address (no P.O. boxes).
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Completed Application: You can fill out the application online ahead of time or at the Service Center.
Steps to Renew in Person
- Gather all required documentation.
- Visit a DDS Customer Service Center.
- Submit your application and documentation.
- Have your picture taken.
- Pay the renewal fee of $32.00.
- Once processed, you will receive an interim (temporary) driver license, and your permanent license will be mailed to you within 30 days.
Special Circumstances
If you have changed your name, you will need to provide certified documentation of the name change. Acceptable documents include:
- Marriage Certificate or Marriage License for name changes due to marriage.
- Divorce Decree that states your name change.
- Court Order for legal name changes.
For non-citizens, additional documentation proving your lawful status in the U.S. will be required, such as a valid I-94 or I-797A Notice of Action.
Conclusion
Renewing your Georgia driver's license is a manageable process when you understand the requirements and steps involved. Whether you choose to renew online, by mail, or in person, ensure you have all necessary documentation ready to avoid delays. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can navigate the renewal process with confidence.
References
- Driving-Tests.org. (2025). How to Renew a Georgia Driver's License [2025]. https://driving-tests.org/academy/renew/georgia
- DriversEd.com. (2025). Documents Needed to Renew a Georgia Driver's License. https://driversed.com/trending/documents-to-renew-georgia-drivers-license
- I Drive Safely. (2025). Renew Your Driver’s License in Georgia. https://www.idrivesafely.com/dmv/georgia/drivers-license/renewal/