Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?

Although you are not required to do so, completing a motorcycle training course will provide you with a license test waiver for 90 days. For three months, the Georgia DDS waives both the road skills and written parts of your application when you complete this program. If you would like to learn more, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?

Yes, the state of Georgia requires every motorcyclist to wear a helmet when riding a bike. Failure to do so may result in penalties and fees. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?

No, the state of Georgia does not permit CDL drivers to complete drivers license renewal online. Instead you must make an in-person visit to your nearest GA DDS and take a new picture, among other requirements. You will also need to bring in payment for any applicable fees, such as license and endorsement costs. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?

The written driving tests can only be taken in person at a DDS Customer Service Center. If you plan to take the test at the end of the day, keep in mind that you must begin the Knowledge Exam at least 30 minutes before the center closes. Allow yourself sufficient time to take the exam at your own pace. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?

If you have obtained an interstate CDL license, then you can drive across state lines, as long as you are abiding the rules and regulations of the roadways and highways you are passing through. Interstate drivers licenses are only issued to those who are 21 and older. In the event that you are unsure about certain road rules, contact the DMV of the state you will be driving to. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?

Yes, the state of Georgia requires drivers with mopeds and scooters to apply for a motorcycle driving license. Although a moped does not need to be registered or titled, the same cannot be said for a motor scooter. You do need to complete a registration and title process for a motor scooter. To find out more, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?

Yes, the state of Georgia requires beginner drivers to complete a drivers ed course. In addition to this, you must also have 40 hours of supervised behind-the-wheel-experience, six of which are to be completed during nighttime hours. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?

If you are a veteran who is requesting an ID card,you will be issued one free of charge as long as you have the list of criteria below. In order to qualify, you will need to present a Certificate of Eligibility, as approved by the Georgia Department of Veteran Services. You can receive a Certificate of Eligibility by showing the documents below to the State Department of Veteran Services: Separation papers (DD-214) that provide information regarding the veteran s wartime service, honorable discharge, and that the individual is a Georgia resident. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?

If you are wondering how to get a CDL license, you will first need to meet the requirements for a standard driver s license, which entails showing proof of identity, legal status in the country, Social Security Number and state residency. Additionally, you must complete the following:

Fill out the proper CDL license application.
Present a valid Medical Examiner s Certificate.
Pass a CDL road skills test.
Pass the CDL knowledge exam.
Pass the vision exam.
Pay any necessary fees.

All of the aforementioned must be presented or conducted in person at a DDS center. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?

In order to apply for a learners permit in the state of Georgia, you will need to pass certain tests and present required documentation. Additionally, you must be at least 15 years old in order to apply. To obtain a learners permit, you will need to pass both a vision test and a knowledge test. At the time of application, if you are less than 18 years old, your parent or legal guardian must be present for consent. After you have held your instructional permit for at least 12 months, you will then be apply to apply for an intermediate license. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?

The state of Georgia offers two different types of motorcycle licenses: Class MP, an instructional permit for those who are 16, and Class M, for those who are at least 17. The requirements vary for each. For a Class MP Motorcycle Instructional Permit, you will be required to do the following:

Turn in a certified Georgia Driver Training/Driver Education Course that consists of 30 hours.
Pass a Vision Exam.
Pass a Motorcycle Knowledge Exam.
Have a parent or legal guardian sign your application if you are under the age of 18.
Present any required documentation.

For a Class M Motorcycle License, you will be required to do the following:

Pass a Motorcycle Knowledge Exam (if it applies).
Pass a Vision Exam.
Pass a Road Skills Text.
Have a parent or legal guardian sign your application if you are under the age of 18.
Present any required documentation.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

How do I get a duplicate ID card?

To obtain an ID card replacement, you will need to present a document from what the Georgia DDS labels âCategory Aâ or two documents from âCategory B.â

Examples of documents in Category A include:

Valid Foreign Passport
Valid U.S. Passport
Consular Report of Birth Abroad
Certificate of Naturalization
Certificate of Citizenship
Permanent Resident Card
Certified copy of birth certificate

Examples of documents in Category B include:

Voter Registration Card
Valid or expired Military ID Card
Social Security Card
Original or certified Marriage Certificate
Current Car Registration
Current Auto, Home, Life or Health Insurance Policy

Present these documents at your nearest DDS office and bring $5 with you for the replacement fee. Fees are subject to change without notice. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?

It is unnecessary to renew your instruction permit. The next step in obtaining your drivers license once you have your learners permit is to apply for your provisional/intermediate drivers license. You can apply for this license once you ha ve completed the following:

Taken an Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program
Held your learners permit for at least a year
Completed 40 hours of behind-the-wheel experience
Must be 16 with completed drivers ed or 17 years old

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

How do I renew my ID card?

The state of Georgia allows its residents to renew ID card in one of two ways: online or in person.

ONLINE

In order to renew online, you must be an applicant who is 64 or younger (seniors are required to renew in person). To complete your online transaction, have a credit card or debit card available. The GA DDS accepts MasterCard, Visa, American Express or Discover Card.

IN PERSON

When renewing in person, you will be required to submit proof of the following:

Your Georgia residency
Your United States citizenship or legal status in the country
Your Social Security Number
Your identity

You will also be asked to take a new ID card picture and to fill out an identification card application.

For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?

Those individuals who are interstate CDL drivers can renew their medical report by asking their medical examiners to complete the Medical Examination Report for Commercial Driver Fitness Determination. This form will must be submitted to the Georgia DPS after a physical examination has been completed, either by mail, online, or by fax. Some of the things the exam will check for is the driver s general appearance, as well as lungs,chest, ears, mouth, throat, eyes, heart, spine, neurological parts, abdomen, etc. For more information about the physical, take a look at the DOT Physicals page. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?

In Georgia, you can renew your motorcycle license either in person, online or via mail (in some instances). If you would like to renew in person, simply visit your nearest DDS center. Those individuals who are deemed eligible to renew by mai l can do so by following the instructions on the DDS Mail-in Renewal Options Package. For you to qualify to renew by mail, one of the following must apply to you:

You are physically incapacitated and therefore unable to visit a DDS office.
You are temporarily working out of state.
You are attending school outside of Georgia.
You are a military member who is stationed out of the state.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?

In order to apply for a motorcycle drivers license, a military member will need to follow the same procedure as of other individuals. You will need to be physically present to complete the application process. However, if you want to renew your motorcycle drivers license and are currently out of state, Georgia allows a six-month grace period after your license expires to do so. You can also request a license renewal through the mail if this option is more convenient for you. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?

In order to obtain your GA license to drive, you must first hold an intermediate driver s license after acquiring your learner s permit. You must have your learners permit for at least a year before you can apply for an intermediate. Once you reachthe age of 18, you can then apply for your full, standard drivers license as long as you have had no convictions or offenses on your record. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

How long will it take to get my new ID card?

In order to find out how long it will be before you receive your ID card, contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services for more information. The time in which it takes may vary, depending on whether you are submitting your request in person or online. When applying for your ID card, you may be asked to fill out a proper form. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?

In the state of Georgia, a commercial driver is required to renew their commercial driving license 60 days prior to its expiration date. CDL drivers can only complete a license renewal at a nearby DDS Customer Service Center. You will need to have any payment ready for necessary fees. If you are obtaining a CDL license with a Hazardous Material Endorsement (Hazmat), then you will also be required to undergo a background and fingerprint check.

For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?

You will be required to visit a Customer Service Center when you return to Georgia and bring in a couple of identifiable documents, along with the proper payment for a replacement fee. If you would like further clarification about your particular situation, contact the GA DDS at 678-413-8400 to speak to a representative. Their operating hours are from Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 5:15 p.m. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?

A person who is 18 can apply for a commercial drivers license in the state of Georgia. However, the driving is limited to within the state. A person who is 21 or older can apply for an intrastate CDL license, which can be used nationwide. For both intrastate and interstate driving, you will be required to fill out the proper application, as well as meet all the requirements for the endorsement you want to obtain. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?

If you are applying for a motorcycle instruction permit, you can begin the process as early as 16. However, if you would like to apply for a regular Class M motorcycle license, you must be at least 17 years of age and a resident of Georgia. Keep in mind that if you are under the age of 18, your parent or legal guardian s signature will be required on the application. Aside from taking a few standard tests, you will also need to present proper documents when you apply. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

What are the available commercial license endorsements?

If you would like to get a Georgia commercial drivers license, there are seven different endorsements you can apply for. These commercial class endorsements are listed below:

C Limousine Chauffeur
T Double/Triple Trailers
X Tanker and Hazardous
H Hazardous Materials Haulers
P Passenger Vehicles (16 or more with driver)
N Tank Vehicles

The endorsement you get on your license depends on the type of vehicle you want to drive. Keep in mind that each endorsement has a number of varying rules and regulations. For example, some may require a specific type of Road Skills Test or a fingerprint/background check. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?

Depending on whether this is your first time filling out an ID card application or if you need a replacement, fees may vary. You can request an ID card from any Georgia CSC near you. See a list of fees below:

Five-year GA ID Card – $20
Eight-year GA ID Card – $8
Replacement ID Card – $5
Honorary ID Card Free
Veteran ID Card Free
Veteran Handicapped ID Card Free
Handicapped ID Card – $5

When requesting your ID card, you will be required to present documentation that identifies you, so it is important to keep these documents nearby. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?

In order to drive with a Georgia learners permit, you will need to abide by the following rules:

You must be accompanied by a driver who is at least 21 years old.
You must hold an unexpired Class C drivers license when driving.

In order to drive with an intermediate license, you will need to abide by the following rules:

No driving is permitted between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m.
No driving is permitted on public roadways, streets and highways during the first six months of license issuance if an immediate family member is not present in the vehicle.
No driving is permitted on public roadways, streets and highways during the next six months of license issuance if there is more than one passenger in the vehicle less than 21 years of age.
No driving is permitted on public roadways, streets and highways after the second six-month period of license issuance if there is more than three passengers in the vehicle less than 21 years of age.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?

When applying for a CDL license, you will need to submit a Medical Examiner s Certificate or Card, plus a filled out Commercial Driver Self-Certification Form. On this form, you will have to indicate the type of commercial driving you will partake in:

Non-Excepted Interstate
Non-Excepted Intrastate
Excepted Interstate
Excepted Intrastate

It is important that you become in agreement with all state motor carrier safety regulations. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?

Depending on how many points you have acquired with your traffic ticket, your learners permit may be suspended. A drivers license suspension will result when four or more points are accumulated within a year. Find out more by contacting the county clerk where your ticket was issued. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?

If you want to drive a three-wheel motorcycle in Georgia, you will need to complete the proper steps to obtain a standard motorcycle drivers license, including but not limited to: passing certain exams, submitting necessary paperwork, paying the proper fee, filling out an application, etc. To schedule an appointment at your local DDS Customer Service Center, simply visit the DMV Office page for a list of branches near you. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?

When applying for a GA driving permit, the Georgia Department of Driver Services will ask you to submit certain documentation such as the following:

Proof of residential address
Proof of identity
Proof of your Social Security Number
Proof of your U.S. citizenship or legal status in the country
High School Diploma/GED/ Certificate of Attendance from the past 30 days

The documents that you present must be in English. Keep in mind that if you are less than 18, you will need either your parent or a legal guardian to sign your license application. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?

Getting a motorcycle license will require you to present the documents below at your local DDS branch:

Proof of identity
Proof of residential address
Proof of Social Security Number
Proof of United States citizenship or legal residence
Proof Georgia residency
Certificate of Attendance if under the age of 18, or a High School Diploma
ADAP or eADAP certificate of completion if under 18

The documents you submit to the Georgia DDS must be in English. You will also need to have payment ready for the application fee. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?

When applying for a GA motorcycle license, you will need to complete and pass the following exams:

Vision Exam
Knowledge Written Exam
Road Skills Exam

In order to best prepare for the Knowledge Written Exam, you can review the Driver s Manual ahead of time to learn everything you need to know about operating a motorcycle. For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in Georgia

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?

If you are convicted of driving under the influence, you will face a drivers license suspension period of at least a year. The state of Georgia also requires you to notify your employer of your conviction and suspension within two business days. In order to restore your driving privileges, you will have to follow your reinstatement requirements. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?

An identification card is a legal document that is mainly used by individuals who do not drive but would like to have a form of ID on them. This document can be used for a number of purposes, including to enter any government building or to present as identification when traveling. The state of Georgia allows any individual to request an identification card at a C SC office.
For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?

The written driving test is made up of two sections: the Road Rules Test and the Road Signs test. To get a passing grade, you must get at least 15 out of 20 question correct on each individual exam. The Road Signs Test is available in English only, however, the Road Rules Test can be taken in a few, different languages. Contact the Georgia DDS to find out more. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?

The state of Georgia requires soon-to-be drivers to pass both a vision exam and a DMV knowledge exam when applying for their learners permit. You can prepare for the knowledge exam by reviewing the Driver s Manual ahead of time and taking a practice test. In order to pass the vision exam, you must have a minimum acceptable vision of 20/60 in one eye, with or without contact lenses. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?

Getting a license to drive commercial vehicles requires the individual to take and pass a few exams. You may be required to complete further testing depending on the type of endorsement you are applying for. But, generally speaking, a potential CDL driver must take a vision test, a written knowledge exam and a road skills test. These exams will require you to be physically present at a local Georgia DDS center. For more information: Georgia Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?

The state of Georgia allows individuals to apply for ID card that is valid for a period of five years or eight years. You can begin the process of renewing your identification card up to 150 days before its expiration date. In order to avoid any penalties, you should renew your ID card in advance. To learn more, contact the Georgia DDS at 678-413-8400. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?

When applying for a Georgia DMV ID card for the first time, you will need to make a physical appearance at your local DDS office. There are several scattered all across the state for your convenience. Simply choose the one that is closest to you. For a full list of Georgia DDS offices by city, see our DMV locator. For more information: How to Apply for a Georgia Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?

If you are less than 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian physically present when applying for your learning permit. That s because said parent or legal guardian will be required to provide consent and sign the application on your behalf. For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in Georgia