Atlanta

💳

Driver's License

New residents need to acquire or transfer their driver’s license to comply with Georgia state regulations when living in Atlanta.

Sections

1. Eligibility Criteria

To obtain a driver’s license in Atlanta, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Age Requirements:
    • You must be at least 16 years old to apply for a Class D (provisional) license.
    • You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Class C (full, unrestricted) license.
  • Residency:
    • You must be a resident of Georgia. Immigrants and non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the U.S.
  • Learner’s Permit:
    • If you are under 18, you must hold a learner’s permit (Class CP) for at least 12 months and 1 day before applying for a Class D license.
  • Driving Education:
    • If you are under 18, you must complete a Georgia DDS-approved driver’s education course and meet the Joshua’s Law requirements (30 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training).

2. Required Documents

When applying for a driver’s license in Atlanta, you must bring the following documents to a Georgia DDS Customer Service Center:

For U.S. Citizens:

  1. Proof of Identity:
    • Original or certified copy of your birth certificate, or a valid U.S. passport.
  2. Social Security Number (SSN):
    • Social Security card, W-2 form, or pay stub with your SSN.
  3. Proof of Georgia Residency (2 documents required):
    • Utility bill, bank statement, rental agreement, or mortgage statement with your name and Georgia address.
  4. Proof of Name Change (if applicable):
    • Marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order if your name has changed.

For Non-U.S. Citizens:

  1. Proof of Identity and Legal Presence:
    • Valid foreign passport with a valid visa, I-94 form, or other immigration documents (e.g., Employment Authorization Document, Permanent Resident Card).
  2. Social Security Number:
    • If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must provide a letter of ineligibility from the Social Security Administration (SSA).
  3. Proof of Georgia Residency (2 documents required):
    • Same as above (utility bill, bank statement, etc.).

3. Costs

The fees for obtaining a driver’s license in Georgia are as follows:

  • Learner’s Permit (Class CP): $10 (valid for 2 years).
  • Provisional License (Class D): $10 (valid for 5 years).
  • Full License (Class C): $32 (valid for 8 years).
  • Knowledge Test Retake Fee: $10 per attempt.
  • Road Test Retake Fee: $10 per attempt.

Payment methods accepted include cash, credit/debit cards, and money orders.

4. Procedures

Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining your driver’s license in Atlanta:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

  • Gather all the required documents listed above.
  • Ensure your documents are original or certified copies (no photocopies).

Step 2: Pass the Knowledge Test

  • The knowledge test covers Georgia traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices.
  • Study the Georgia Driver’s Manual, available online or at DDS offices.
  • Take the test at a DDS Customer Service Center. The test is available in multiple languages.
  • If you pass, you will receive a learner’s permit (Class CP).

Step 3: Practice Driving

  • If you are under 18, you must complete 40 hours of supervised driving (including 6 hours at night) with a parent or guardian.
  • If you are over 18, practice driving to prepare for the road test.

Step 4: Schedule a Road Test Appointment

  • Visit the DDS website (https://dds.georgia.gov/) or call to schedule your road test.
  • Appointments are required for the road test, and slots can fill up quickly, so book early.

Step 5: Take the Road Test

  • Arrive at the DDS office with your learner’s permit, proof of insurance, and a vehicle that meets safety standards.
  • The road test evaluates your ability to operate a vehicle safely, including parking, turning, and obeying traffic laws.
  • If you pass, you will receive your provisional or full license.

Step 6: Pay the License Fee

  • Pay the applicable fee to receive your driver’s license.

5. Locations of DDS Customer Service Centers in Atlanta

Here are some DDS offices near Atlanta where you can complete the process:

  1. Atlanta Customer Service Center
    Address: 400 Whitehall Street SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
    Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

  2. Decatur Customer Service Center
    Address: 2801 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30034
    Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

  3. Norcross Customer Service Center
    Address: 2211 Beaver Ruin Road, Norcross, GA 30071
    Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

  4. Marietta Customer Service Center
    Address: 1605 County Services Parkway, Marietta, GA 30008
    Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Use the DDS website to find additional locations or confirm hours of operation.

6. Additional Considerations

  • Language Assistance: The knowledge test is available in multiple languages, but the road test is conducted in English.
  • Real ID Compliance: Georgia driver’s licenses are Real ID-compliant, meaning they can be used for federal purposes (e.g., boarding domestic flights).
  • Immigrants and Non-U.S. Citizens: Your driver’s license will be valid only for the duration of your legal stay in the U.S., as determined by your immigration documents.
  • Insurance: You must have valid auto insurance to take the road test and drive legally in Georgia.

7. Tips for Success

  • Study the Georgia Driver’s Manual thoroughly to pass the knowledge test on your first attempt.
  • Practice driving in various conditions (e.g., night driving, highway driving) to prepare for the road test.
  • Arrive early for your appointments and bring all required documents to avoid delays.
  • Check the DDS website for updates on fees, requirements, and office hours.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to obtain your driver’s license in Atlanta. Safe driving!