If you've recently moved to Georgia, you have 30 days from establishing residency to transfer your out-of-state driver's license to a Georgia license. This process involves providing specific documentation, passing a vision screening, and potentially taking additional tests depending on your current license status.

The transfer process is generally straightforward if you have a valid, unexpired license from another U.S. state. Georgia recognizes most state-issued licenses and will waive the road test in most cases, making the transfer quicker than obtaining a new license from scratch.

Transfer Requirements

To successfully transfer your out-of-state driver's license to Georgia, you must meet the following requirements:

Time Requirement

You must transfer your license within 30 days of establishing Georgia residency. Failure to do so may result in fines and driving without a valid license.

Basic Eligibility

  • Must be at least 18 years old for a regular Class C license
  • Current license must be valid and not expired
  • License must be from another U.S. state or territory
  • Must establish Georgia residency with proof of address
  • Must pass vision screening at the DMV office

Required Documents

You'll need to bring several documents to complete your license transfer. Georgia requires proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number.

Identity Documentation (Primary)

  • Valid out-of-state driver's license
  • Certified birth certificate issued by vital records
  • Valid U.S. passport or passport card
  • Certificate of Naturalization

Social Security Verification

  • Social Security card (original or certified copy)
  • W-2 form with full SSN visible
  • Pay stub with full SSN (issued within 90 days)
  • SSA-1099 form

Proof of Georgia Residency (2 documents required)

  • Georgia vehicle registration
  • Bank statements (within 90 days)
  • Utility bills (water, electric, gas - within 90 days)
  • Lease agreement or mortgage statement
  • Employment documentation
  • School enrollment records

Step-by-Step Transfer Process

Follow these steps to complete your Georgia license transfer efficiently:

1

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary identification, Social Security, and residency documents. Make copies as backups and organize them in a folder for easy access.

2

Visit DDS Office

Go to your nearest Georgia Department of Driver Services office. Arrive early to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

3

Complete Application

Fill out Form DDS-5 (Driver's License Application). You can download and complete this form in advance to save time at the office.

4

Take Vision Screening

Pass the required vision test at the DDS office. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them and your prescription will be noted on your license.

5

Pay Transfer Fee

Pay the required transfer fee. The office accepts cash, check, or money order. Some locations may accept debit cards.

6

Receive Temporary License

Get your temporary paper license to use while waiting for your permanent license card to arrive by mail within 7-10 business days.

Testing Requirements

Georgia's testing requirements for out-of-state transfers depend on your current license status and driving history.

License Status Knowledge Test Road Test Vision Test
Valid U.S. State License Not Required Not Required Required
Expired Less Than 2 Years Not Required May Be Required Required
Expired More Than 2 Years Required Required Required
Suspended/Revoked License Required Required Required

Good News for Most Transfers

If you have a valid, unexpired license from another state, you'll only need to pass the vision screening. No written or road test required!

Need to prepare for the knowledge test?

Study for Knowledge Test

Transfer Fees and Costs

Georgia charges specific fees for license transfers. Here's a breakdown of the current costs:

Regular License Transfer

$32

Standard Class C license transfer

REAL ID License

$32

Same fee for REAL ID compliant license

Motorcycle Endorsement

$15

Additional fee if transferring with motorcycle endorsement

Payment Methods

Most DDS offices accept cash, personal checks, and money orders. Some locations accept debit cards, but credit cards are generally not accepted. Bring exact change when possible.

Special Situations

Certain circumstances may require additional steps or documentation for your license transfer:

Military Personnel and Dependents

  • Active duty military stationed in Georgia qualify for reduced fees
  • Military ID and orders may serve as proof of residency
  • Spouses and dependents eligible for same considerations
  • Extended time allowances may apply for deployment situations

Commercial Driver's License (CDL)

  • CDL transfers require additional testing and medical certification
  • Must provide current medical examiner's certificate
  • May need to pass specialized knowledge tests for endorsements
  • Higher fees apply for CDL transfers

Suspended or Revoked Licenses

  • Must resolve all suspensions before transfer
  • May require court clearances or proof of insurance
  • Additional fees and testing requirements apply
  • Reinstatement process must be completed first

International Licenses

  • Foreign licenses cannot be transferred directly
  • Must apply for a new Georgia license
  • Full testing requirements apply (written, vision, road test)
  • Additional documentation may be required

Tips for a Smooth Transfer

Follow these helpful tips to make your license transfer as quick and easy as possible:

Best Times to Visit

  • Tuesday through Thursday are typically less busy
  • Arrive within the first hour of opening
  • Avoid the last hour before closing
  • End of month tends to be busier

Document Preparation

  • Make copies of all documents as backup
  • Organize documents in a clear folder
  • Verify document expiration dates
  • Have multiple residency proofs ready

Payment Preparation

  • Bring exact change in cash
  • Money orders accepted at all locations
  • Call ahead to confirm payment methods
  • Keep receipt for your records

After Your Transfer

Once you've completed the transfer process, there are a few important follow-up steps:

Temporary License

  • Your temporary paper license is valid for 60 days
  • Keep it with you while driving until permanent license arrives
  • Don't laminate or alter the temporary license
  • Report to police if temporary license is lost

Permanent License Delivery

  • Permanent license typically arrives within 7-10 business days
  • Delivered to the address on your application
  • Contact DDS if license doesn't arrive within 15 days
  • Verify all information on permanent license for accuracy

Update Other Records

  • Update your voter registration with new license number
  • Notify your insurance company of license change
  • Update employer records and direct deposit information
  • Change address with banks, credit cards, and other accounts

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