Renewing a driver’s license in Georgia is a straightforward process that can be completed online, by mail, or in person. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is responsible for issuing driver’s licenses, and they offer several options for renewal to make the process as convenient as possible.
Eligibility for Renewal
To be eligible to renew your driver’s license in Georgia, you must meet the following requirements:
- Your current license must be due to expire or has been expired for less than two years
- You must be a Georgia resident
- You must not have any suspensions or revocations on your driving record
- You must not have any outstanding traffic tickets or fines
Renewal Options
There are three ways to renew your driver’s license in Georgia:
- Online Renewal: You can renew your driver’s license online through the Georgia DDS website. To do this, you will need to create an account, fill out the application, and pay the renewal fee. You will also need to upload a copy of your current license and a proof of identity document, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- Mail-in Renewal: You can also renew your driver’s license by mail. To do this, you will need to fill out the application form, which can be downloaded from the Georgia DDS website or picked up at a local DDS office. You will also need to include a copy of your current license, a proof of identity document, and the renewal fee.
- In-Person Renewal: If you prefer to renew your driver’s license in person, you can visit a local DDS office. You will need to bring your current license, a proof of identity document, and the renewal fee.
Required Documents
To renew your driver’s license in Georgia, you will need to provide the following documents:
- Your current driver’s license
- A proof of identity document, such as a passport or birth certificate
- A proof of residency document, such as a utility bill or lease agreement
- The renewal fee, which is currently 32 for a non-commercial license and 35 for a commercial license
Fees
The fees for renewing a driver’s license in Georgia are as follows:
- Non-commercial license: $32
- Commercial license: $35
- Identification card: $20
Renewal Cycle
In Georgia, driver’s licenses are valid for eight years. You can renew your license up to 150 days before it expires, and you can also renew it up to two years after it has expired.
Vision Test
When you renew your driver’s license in Georgia, you will be required to take a vision test. This test will check your visual acuity and field of vision to ensure that you can safely operate a vehicle.
New License
Once your renewal application has been processed, you will be issued a new driver’s license. This license will have a new photo and will be valid for eight years from the date of issuance.
How long does it take to renew a driver's license in Georgia?
+The processing time for renewing a driver's license in Georgia can vary depending on the method of renewal. Online renewals are typically processed immediately, while mail-in renewals can take up to two weeks. In-person renewals are usually processed on the same day.
Can I renew my driver's license online if I have a commercial license?
+No, commercial license holders cannot renew their licenses online. They must renew in person at a local DDS office.
What happens if I don't renew my driver's license before it expires?
+If you don't renew your driver's license before it expires, you can still renew it up to two years after the expiration date. However, if you are caught driving with an expired license, you may face fines and penalties.
In conclusion, renewing a driver’s license in Georgia is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed online, by mail, or in person. It’s essential to meet the eligibility requirements, gather the necessary documents, and pay the renewal fee to ensure a smooth and efficient renewal process. By following these steps and being aware of the fees, renewal cycle, and vision test requirements, you can easily renew your driver’s license and get back on the road.
