How to Renew Your Georgia Driver License

Step-by-step guide for renewing your Georgia license through GA DDS. Covers online, mail, and in-person options, fees, and what to bring.

Validity 8 years

Standard fee $32

Renew early Up to 150 days before expiration

After expiration Up to 2 years after expiration allowed without retesting; no driving grace period (military members get a 6-month grace)

Step 1 — Check if you can renew online

U.S. citizens age 18+ Georgia residents who hold a REAL ID (gold star) license with no changes may renew online or via the DDS 2 GO Mobile App; a $5 online discount applies.

Start your online renewal at GA DDS →

Step 2 — Check what to bring

A straightforward renewal usually needs your current Georgia licence and the fee. What else GA DDS asks for depends on whether you are also upgrading to REAL ID, changing your name or address, or renewing after a lapse — and those requirements differ by state. Check the current list on the GA DDS renewal page before you go.

Step 3 — Pay the renewal fee

GA DDS charges $32 for a standard non-commercial license renewal valid for 8 years. CDL and motorcycle endorsement renewals cost extra; check the official fee schedule for exact amounts.

Step 4 — Take a vision test (if required)

Vision screening required for in-person renewals; not required when renewing online with a REAL ID. Bring your glasses or contacts if you wear them.

Step 5 — Receive your new licence

Most agencies issue an interim credential you can drive on while the printed card is produced, then post the card separately. How long the interim lasts and how long the card takes are both set by GA DDS and published on its renewal page. Plan around the dates it gives rather than a general estimate.

REAL ID upgrade in Georgia

Must have a REAL ID-compliant license (star in top right corner) to renew online; non-REAL ID upgrades require an in-person visit with identity, SSN, and two residency documents.

Common pitfalls

Don't forget address updates. If you moved since your last renewal, update the address before renewing — many states won't mail to a non-matching address.
REAL ID upgrade requires originals. Photocopies of your birth certificate or passport will be rejected. Bring the originals or certified copies.
Book ahead where you can. Walk-in waiting times vary by office and time of year and we do not track them, but an appointment removes the question — see the Georgia office list for locations and contact details.

Find your nearest Georgia office

Use our Georgia DMV office finder to locate the closest GA DDS location with addresses, hours, and turn-by-turn directions.