Top Translators

Georgia allows you to submit documents that have been translated into English for a variety of driver services. You must use an approved translator for the documents to be accepted by the Department of Driver Services.

Documents that you can have translated include:

• Birth certificate

• Adoption records

• Marriage application

• Marriage license

• Divorce decree

• Court-ordered name change

• Court-ordered sex change

You must provide the original certified document along with the translated document when you apply for your driver's license or ID card.

Top Medical and Vision Tests

Everyone applying for a Georgia driver's license or permit is required to pass a vision test and will be asked about potential health problems.

The minimum vision requirements are 20/60, with or without corrective lenses, and you must have a field of vision of at least 140 degrees.

If you fail the vision test, you'll need to take a Report on Visual Examination form to your eye doctor for an examination before reapplying for your license.

A medical questionnaire will determine whether you have any mental or physical disabilities that would prevent you from driving safely. If you have had medical problems in the past, you will need to take Form DS-278 to your doctor before applying for your license.

Top HOV Lanes

Diamonds are a commuter's best friend in the metro Atlanta area. High-occupancy vehicle (HOV) lanes are part of the metro interstate system and are marked with white diamonds.

These lanes are for use by passenger vehicles carrying two or more occupants (including the driver), and for motorcycles and buses. The lanes tend to move at a higher speed, and you may only enter and exit the lane at designated points.

Estimates show that a person using the HOV lane from the outskirts of town can shave 10 to 15 minutes off their commute time.

Law enforcement strictly enforces HOV lane use. Should you get caught using the HOV lane without carrying at least one passenger, you will be fined $75 for the first offense. Repeat offenders will face penalties up to a $150 fine and points on their license.

Top Appointments

You can save time and hassle for several common Department of Driver Services transactions if you plan ahead and make an appointment. The centralized Customer Service Center can make appointments for you at any location―and can even search for the location near you that has the earliest availability.

You may schedule an appointment up to 90 days in advance for the following services:

• Road tests for teens getting their first license.

• Road tests for motorcycle applicants who have a learner's permit.

• Exchanging an out-of-state driver's license for a Georgia one.

• Road tests for a commercial license (these are by appointment only).

To make an appointment, call (678) 413-8500 and choose option 3. If you're calling from outside the metro Atlanta area, instead call (866) 754-3687 and choose option 3.

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