Determine the Status of Your License

In order to drive on Georgia's roads, you must have a valid driver's license. So, it's important to know when your license expires. You may renew your license up to 150 days before its expiration date.

Of course, you'll need to be covered by auto liability insurance, too. Visit our Insurance Center to search for carriers.

Valid License

Class A, B, C (standard), and M (motorcycle) licenses need to be renewed either every five or 10 years, depending on the situation.

If you're a commercial driver, see our Renewing Your CDL article to learn about your renewal process.

You may renew:

• Online

• By mail

• In person

If you need to check the status of your license at any time, you may always order a copy of your driving record.

Expired License

While you're not permitted to drive on an expired license, you may renew your license up to two years after it expires without having to repeat the licensing process. To renew a recently expired license, follow the same procedures as those with current licenses.

You may purchase a copy of your driving record to check your license status if you are not sure.

Suspended License

License suspensions can be difficult and confusing. You may always buy a copy of your driving record to verify your license status. Keep in mind that your insurance premiums will likely rise, too. So, it's a smart idea to look for the most affordable rates by browsing through our Insurance Center.

Learn how to have your license reinstated and find out the costs involved by reading our Suspended License page.

Lost License

Those who need to obtain a replacement license should consult our Replacing a Lost License page for instructions on how to accomplish this necessary task.

Check Your Renewal Notice

If you're eligible to renew by mail or online, you should receive a renewal application from the Department of Driver Services (DDS) about two months before your license expires. The form contains your resident identification number (RIN), which is needed for online renewals.

If you don't receive the application, you must renew in person.

Renew Online

While it's convenient to renew online, you may only do so if you:

• Are a U.S. citizen.

• Are at least 18 years old.

• Have your RIN from your renewal form.

• Have been issued a Social Security number.

• Have your current license with you.

• Have a valid major credit card.

If you meet all those requirements, complete the renewal process by visiting the secure site and following the instructions provided. You should receive your license in about a month.

Five-year renewals cost $20, while eight-year renewals are $32.

Renew by Mail

Just follow the instructions on the application form to renew by mail. Be sure to include your payment information. Five-year renewals cost $20, while eight-year renewals are $32.

You should get your license in the mail in about 30 days.

Out-of-State Renewals

Some drivers who are temporarily living outside of the state may be eligible to renew by mail, including:

• Active military personnel (also includes spouses and dependent children).

• Full-time college students.

• Missionaries.

• U.S. government contractors.

Call (678) 413-8400 for details.

Renew in Person

Be sure to take your driver's license with you when you go to a customer service center to renew your license. If you're 64 years of age or older, you must pass a vision test, too.

Five-year renewals cost $20, while eight-year renewals are $32.

Update Your Driving Skills

Keeping your driving skills honed and your understanding of newly passed driving laws up-to-date are part of your responsibility as a licensed driver. By taking a traffic school course you could become a safer driver, and could possibly lower your insurance premiums in the process.

Call your insurance provider to see if you qualify, or search for a carrier through our Insurance Center that offers the discount.

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