How to Get a Georgia Driver's License
License Requirements and Process in Georgia
New drivers and drivers who are simply relocating face different requirements when obtaining a Georgia driver’s license. Understandably, new drivers face more lengthy criteria. In order for a teenager (typically 16 or 17) to get their first driver’s license in Georgia they must meet the following guidelines:
- Pass a driving exam
- Must first have a learning permit for at least one year
- Must have logged supervised driving experience of at least 40 hours (with at least 6 hours of experience driving at night)
- Pass a vision exam
- A parent or guardian must be present when receiving license
- Applicants who are 16 years of age must also pass an approved driver’s education course
Though this list may appear lengthy, most items can easily and quickly be completed by younger drivers. It is important however, to plan adequately for the required one year learning permit term. Those who are simply relocating to Georgia will have a much easier time obtaining a driver’s license in the peach state. New residents may simply go the Department of Driver Services and present proof of social security number, surrender their current (non-expired) driver’s license, and provide 2 forms proving residency in Georgia. Although this is a fairly simple process, it must be done rather immediately. All new Georgia residents are expected to obtain a Georgia driver’s license within 30 days of moving to the state. In addition to these requirements, Georgia drivers will be charged a fee according to their license type.
The Cost to Aquire a License
The cost to acquire a non-commercial driver’s license in Georgia is dependent upon many factors such as license type and veteran status. Overall, the average driver will spend less than $40 to gain a driver’s license. A “regular” driver’s license (Class A, B, C, E, F, M) will only cost drivers $32 in fees. The fees are even smaller for those seeking a learner’s permit or provisional driver’s license, coming in at only $10. Those who serve or served in a branch of the United States Military and who qualify for a Combat Veteran’s driver’s license or National Guard driver’s license have access to a no-fee driver’s license. Those wishing to renew their current Georgia driver’s license can unlock more discounts, such as $5 off, by using the state’s DDS 2 GO Mobile App. In addition to fees, drivers should also understand the basic types and categories of driver’s licenses in Georgia.
Different Types and Categories of Driver’s Licenses
The state of Georgia offers drivers 7 different types of non-commercial drivers licenses. Each type of license signifies a different “class” of drivers. A Class C driver’s license is perhaps the most common type of license issued in the state of Georgia. A Class C driver’s license is a regular license available to anyone over the age of 18 in Georgia. Younger drivers, at the ages of 16 or 17, most commonly acquire a Class D provisional license. A Class D provisional license comes with certain limitations or guidelines such as the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle. Other driver’s licenses available to Georgia residents include a Class M license (for motorcyclists), Veteran license (for those who served in a branch of the U.S. Military), Honorary Veteran license (available to the spouse of a veteran), a National Guard License, and Class E and F licenses (for first responders, firefighters, and agricultural vehicle drivers).
More Questions?
If you still have questions about obtaining a driver’s license in Georgia, or if you have a circumstance which you believe is unique and not covered in this article, there is additional help available. Simply reach out to your local Department of Driver Services in Georgia to have any further questions answered.