Getting your Georgia driver's license requires specific documents and meeting eligibility requirements. For Georgia licenses, you need proof of identity, social security number, two residency documents, and proof of citizenship. Minors also need school form DS-1. This comprehensive guide covers all documentation and requirements for first-time applicants, renewals, and transfers from other states.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements

  • Class CP (Learner's Permit): 15 years old
  • Class D (Regular License): 16 years old with permit held for 12 months
  • Class M (Motorcycle): 16 years old
  • Class CDL (Commercial): 18 years old (21 for interstate)

All applicants must provide valid documentation proving identity, residency, and legal presence in the United States. The REAL ID requirements also apply to standard Georgia licenses.

Required Documents Checklist

Proof of Identity

  • Valid U.S. passport
  • Certified birth certificate
  • Certificate of naturalization
  • Valid military ID
  • Previous Georgia license (if renewing)

Georgia Residency (2 required)

  • Utility bills (gas, electric, water)
  • Bank statements
  • Lease or mortgage documents
  • Insurance policies
  • Voter registration card

Important: All documents must be original or certified copies. Photocopies are not accepted. Residency documents must be dated within 60 days.

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Social Security & Legal Presence

Social Security Number Verification

You must provide your Social Security Number and verification:

  • Social Security card (original or certified copy)
  • W-2 form with full SSN visible
  • Pay stub with full SSN
  • Form 1099 with SSN

Proof of Legal Presence

One of the following to prove lawful presence:

  • U.S. birth certificate
  • Valid U.S. passport
  • Certificate of naturalization
  • Permanent resident card (Green Card)
  • Valid visa with I-94

Special Requirements for Teen Drivers

School Enrollment Verification

Applicants under 18 must provide Form DS-1 showing:

  • Current enrollment in an approved school
  • Satisfactory academic progress
  • Good attendance record
  • School administrator signature

Parental Consent

For applicants under 18:

  • Parent or guardian must sign application
  • Parent/guardian must provide photo ID
  • Proof of parent-child relationship required
  • Both parent and teen must appear in person

Transferring from Another State

If you're moving to Georgia from another state, you have 30 days to obtain a Georgia license. The transfer process requires all standard documentation plus:

  • Current out-of-state license (valid or expired less than 2 years)
  • Driving record from previous state (if requested)
  • Vision screening at the DMV office
  • Knowledge test (may be required depending on previous state)
  • Road skills test (if license expired over 2 years)

Note: Some states have reciprocal agreements with Georgia. Check if your previous state qualifies for simplified transfer requirements.

Testing Requirements

Knowledge Test

  • Georgia traffic laws
  • Road signs and signals
  • Safe driving practices
  • 36 questions, 24 to pass

Road Skills Test

  • Basic vehicle control
  • Parking maneuvers
  • Traffic interaction
  • Required for first-time licenses

Vision Screening

  • Visual acuity test
  • Peripheral vision
  • Color recognition
  • Required for all applicants
Performed at DMV office

License Fees and Costs

$32
Class D License (8 years)
$10
Learner's Permit
$10
Knowledge Test Fee
$20
Road Test Fee

Payment methods accepted: cash, check, money order, and debit/credit cards. For complete fee information including commercial licenses and endorsements, visit our detailed costs page.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1

Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary identification, residency, and legal presence documents. Ensure all documents are original or certified copies.

2

Schedule Your Appointment

Book an appointment at your preferred DMV office to avoid long wait times and ensure prompt service.

3

Complete Application Form

Fill out Form DDS-5 completely and accurately. Bring the form with you or complete it at the office.

4

Take Required Tests

Complete vision screening, knowledge test, and road skills test as required based on your application type.

5

Pay Fees and Receive License

Pay applicable fees and receive your temporary license. Your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7-10 business days.

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