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In this article, we will discuss how you can get your Georgia driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license.

Continue reading to learn how to get your license in Georgia!

Types of Georgia Driver’s Licenses

There are different types of driver’s licenses in the state of Georgia. Here’s what you need to know about the types of Georgia driver’s licenses.

  • Regular driver’s license classes
    • Class C driver’s license – regular license for persons 18 years of age and older
    • Class D driver’s license – a license with restrictions for individuals who are 16 and 17 years old
    • Class M Motorcycle license – a license that allows you to operate a motorcycle
    • Veteran license – a license for persons in the U.S. Armed Forces and National Guard
    • Honorary Veteran License – a license for spouses of individuals who are in the U.S. Armed Forces
    • National Guard License – a license for persons who have been in the National Guard for at least one year
    • Non-commercial Classes E and F licenses – a license for firefighters, emergency, or agricultural vehicles
  • Commercial driver’s license (CDL)
    • A commercial CDL has three classes, A, B, and C. There is also a restricted commercial Class B license.
  • Permits
    • Learner’s permit (Class CP) – an instructional permit for teens at least 15 years old
    • Motorcycle permit (Class MP) – a permit before an individual receives their official motorcycle license
    • Commercial instructional permit (Class AP or BP) – a permit required when an individual is applying for a CDL, upgrading a CDL, or adding endorsements to a CDL
    • Non-commercial instructional permit (Class EP and FP) – a permit for emergency vehicles, firefighters, and agricultural
    • Learner’s permit (CP) – for visually impaired parent/guardian/responsible adult – a special learner’s permit for 14-year-old minors who have a legal guardian or responsible adult who is visually impaired or legally blind

Georgia Driver’s License Requirements

Before you make your way to your local Georgia Department of Driver Services office to obtain a driver’s license, you need to know if you’re required to have a license, and which documents you need to attain one.

  • Class A Georgia driver’s license
    • Applicants must be at least 18 years of age
    • If you’re transferring from a different state, you must be at least 18 years old or 17 years old with an equivalent Class C non-commercial driver’s license
  • Class D Provisional license
    • Must be at least 16 years old
    • Attain a Class CP Learner’s Permit (Instructional Permit) for at least one year and one day
    • Have no major violations that resulted in the suspension of your learner’s permit
  • Class M Motorcycle License
    • Must be at least 17 years old
    • Pass a motorcycle skills test by completing a Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program Course (upon completion, passing the test, present the 90-day license test waiver to a DDS customer service center, OR you can take the Motorcycle Riders Skills Test at a DDS customer service center.
  • Veteran License
    • Must have honorable active-duty service in the United States Armed Forces or 20 years of service in the National Guard
    • Activation for training purposes does NOT qualify you for a Georgia Veteran driver’s license
    • All applicants must be a resident of Georgia at the time of application
    • Acceptable separation/discharges eligible for a veteran’s license are:
      • Honorable
      • General
      • Medical
      • Other than honorable (OTH)
  • Honorary Veteran License
    • Must be a spouse of a disabled separated veteran of the U.S. Armed Forces who DOES NOT have a driver’s license
    • A surviving spouse (who has not remarried) of a deceased separated veteran
    • The spouse MUST be a resident of Georgia at the time of application
  • National Guard License
    • Must be a member of the Georgia National Guard or Reserve Forces in good standing and completed at least one year of satisfactory service
    • Must be a resident of the state of Georgia at the time of application
  • Non-Commercial Classes E and F License
    • Must be at least 18 years of age
    • A minimum of three months or 3,000 miles driving experience in a vehicle representing the driver’s license class for which you are applying
    • Must have a valid Georgia driver’s license
    • Submit an Application for Issuance of Non-Commercial Class E/F (Form DS-36) This form is required to be signed by a Public Agency Employer (or self-certify) that you have met the necessary driving requirements
  • Commercial License (CDL)
    • Must be at least 18 years of age
    • Applicants between ages 18 and 21 will be restricted to drive in only the state of Georgia (intrastate) On or after the 21st birthday, you are required to visit any customer service center to have “Georgia Only” restriction removed
    • Must hold a valid standard Georgia driver’s license (Class C driver’s license)
    • Must have a valid Class AP or AB Instructional Permit (CLP) if you’re applying for the first time or upgrading. Must hold a CLP for at least 14 days before applying for a full CDL license (A CLP issued on or after July 1, 2021, will be valid for 365 days).
    • There are three different classes of commercial licenses. The gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR) and type of vehicle determine the class of commercial driver’s license being issued.

Be advised that started February 7, 2022 ALL entry-level drivers will be subject to the requirements in the FMCSA entry-level driver training (ELDT) regulations. This includes drivers applying for a Class A or Class B license for the first time, upgrading an existing CDL to a higher class, or adding a new school bus, passenger, or hazmat endorsement.

  • Farm Waiver and Restricted Class B
    • Must be at least 18 years of age to apply
    • Must have held a valid Class C or equivalent license for at least one year to qualify for this waiver
  • Restricted Class B
    • The restricted CDL holder must possess a valid Farm Related Services Waiver card while operating a commercial motor vehicle
    • Operation of a non-commercial vehicle is allowed during these times, even if the waiver has not been renewed
  • Learner’s Permit (Class CP)
    • Must be at least 15 years old
  • Commercial Instructional Permit (Class AP or BP)
    • Must be at least 18 years of age to apply
    • Applicants between age 18 and 21 will be restricted to drive in Georgia ONLY (intrastate) On or after the 21st birthday, the applicant must visit a customer service center to have “Georgia only” restriction removed
    • Must hold a valid standard Georgia driver’s license (Class C)
    • CDL drivers are required to hold the Commercial Instructional Permit (CLP) for at least 14 days before applying for a full CDL. (A CLP issued on or after July 1, 2021, will be valid for 365 days).
    • Must be able to read and understand the English language
    • Must operate the appropriate class of vehicle and be accompanied by a person who is licensed to drive that class of vehicle. Also, the accompanying driver is required to be fit and capable of exercising control of the vehicle and must occupy a seat beside the driver.
  • Non-Commercial Instructional Permit (Class EP and FP)
    • Must be 18 or older
    • Must have a valid Georgia driver’s license
  • Learner’s Permit (CP) for Visually Impaired Parent/Guardian/Responsible Adult
    • Download the PDF here

Georgia Driver’s License Checklist

In the state of Georgia, under Joshua’s Law, in order for teenagers to obtain a GA driver’s license at the age of 16, they must first complete a DDS-approved driver’s education course and have a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of supervised driving experience, including at least six hours of experience driving at night.

Teenage drivers who have not completed an approved GA driver’s education course can’t get a Class D driver’s license until they reach age 17. 40 hours of driving experience, including six hours of driving at night are required to obtain a Class D Georgia driver’s license.

Requirements to Obtain a Georgia Driver’s License (16-Year-Old New Drivers)

In the Peach State, Joshua’s Law requires residents of this state who are 16-years-old to complete a 30-hour approved driver’s ed course in addition to a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving experience with at least six hours of driving at night. Other requirements include:

  • Must pass the road skills test with a minimum score of 75%
  • A parent or guardian is required to be present
  • Payment of $32 for the GA Class D license fee (license is valid for eight years)

Required Documents

  • Valid GA learner’s permit for one year and one day
  • Georgia DDS Certificate of Attendance notarized by the school (valid for 30 days; valid May-August during the summer)
  • ADAP certificate
  • Certificate of Completion of 30-hours driver’s ed course at a GA state-certified driving school
  • A driving experience affidavit must be completed at the Department of Driver services that affirms the applicant has a minimum of 40 hours of driving experience, six of which are required to be performed at night. (Parents are required to sign the form at the DDS.)
  • Must present valid registration and auto insurance for the vehicle used on the road test (the auto insurance policy does not have to be registered in the applicant’s name)

Requirements to Obtain a Georgia Driver’s License (17-Year-Old New Drivers)

  • All 17-year-old applicants are required to have a minimum of 40 hours of supervised driving experience, with at least 6 hours experience of night driving
  • Applicants are required to pass the GA road skills test with a minimum passing score of 75%
  • A parent of guardian is required to be present
  • Payment for the $32 GA Class D license (license is valid for eight years)

Required Documents

  • Attain a valid GA learner’s permit for one year and one day
  • Georgia DDS Certificate of Attendance that is notarized by the school (valid for 30 days; valid May-August during the summer)
  • ADAP certificate
  • A driving experience affidavit is required to be completed at the Department of Driver Services affirming the applicant has a minimum of 40 hours of driving, six of which must be performed at night. (parents will sign the form at the DDS.)
  • Valid vehicle registration and GA auto insurance policy is required for the vehicle that is used for the road test (the auto insurance policy is not required to be in the applicant’s name.)

Requirements to Obtain a Georgia Driver’s License (18-Year-Old New Drivers)

As an 18-year-old new driver in Georgia, you need to know what obtaining a GA Class C driver’s license for the first time is different from updating your GA Class D to Class C driver’s license.

  • All 18-year-old applicants are required to pass the GA road test skills test with a minimum passing score of 75%.
  • In order to update a GA Class D driver’s license to a GA Class C driver’s license, you need to visit the DDS and replace your old GA Class D driver’s license with a new GA Class C driver’s license
  • Payment for the fee of $32 for a GA Class C driver’s license (license is valid for eight years)

Required Documents

  • A valid GA learner’s permit (the one year and one day rule does not apply) Applicants may obtain a learner’s permit and Class D license the same day.
  • Required to present a valid registration and auto insurance policy for the vehicle used on the road test (the auto insurance policy is not required to be in the applicant’s name.)

Applying for a Georgia Driver’s License

If you are at least 18 years of age and applying for your GA driver’s license for the first time, you can apply for your GA Class C license immediately. If you are under 18 years of age, you might be required to participate in the graduated license program for young drivers. You can learn more about the Georgia Graduated License Program here.

The GA Class C driver’s license is also for drivers who are new to the state of Georgia who are age 17 and hold a valid Class C equivalent driver’s license from a different state. The license can’t be suspended or revoked.

Getting Prepared

You need to schedule a road test appointment in advance. Be prepared to have your photo taken by the Department of Driver Services (DDS).

Gather the Required Documentation and Payment

You’ll need to pay the $32 fee by cash or credit card. You also need to present original documentation showing your:

  • Identity
  • Residential address
  • Social security number
  • U.S. citizenship (or proof of lawful status in the United States) Be advised that photocopies are NOT accepted.
  • Applicants who are new to the state of Georgia are required to surrender any out-of-state driver’s license, permit, or ID card they have.

Application and Testing

In order to obtain a valid GA driver’s license, the next step in the process is application and testing. You need to:

  • Fill out the GA application form. (This application will remain on file for 30 days. After that, you will be required to submit another application.)
  • Visit your local GA DDS customer service center (CSC)
  • Pass the GA knowledge exam
  • Pass the GA vision exam
  • Pass the GA road skills test
  • If you pass the required tests, you will have your picture taken and receive your GA driver’s license

Georgia Knowledge Exam

The Georgia knowledge exam consists of a road rules test and a road signs test. You are required to pass each test. You must answer a minimum of 15 questions out of 20 questions correctly on each test to receive a passing score. You need to arrive at your local customer service center 30 minutes before they close if you’re taking a non-commercial driving test, and at least 45 minutes if you are taking a CDL knowledge test.

Georgia Vision Exam

Your vision will be tested to determine how well your vision is to see and identify road signs and other drivers. The minimum acceptable vision in the state of Georgia is 20/60 in one eye, with or without corrective lenses, and a field of vision of at least 140 degrees. If you fail the GA field vision exam, you must have a Vision Report Form (Form DS-MR-274) completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Georgia Road Skills Test

You will also be required to take a GA road skills test. The vehicle you use to take the GA road skills test must be covered by a valid auto liability insurance policy. You are required to:

  • Show proof of a valid auto insurance policy
  • Pass a safety vehicle inspection
  • Know your hand signals (if they vehicle is not equipped with turn signals)
  • Present your vehicle registration and the license plate (vehicle tag) that can’t be expired

Be advised that your non-commercial road test can be administered in a virtual or traditional format. The Georgia virtual road test is conducted remotely by an examiner who will administer the test via a dual-facing camera and a hands-free cellular device. A parent, guardian, or other responsible adult 21 years of age or older is required to be a passenger in the testing vehicle and obtain a valid driver’s license.

Additional Steps

You are required to renew your GA driver’s license every eight years. If you are under 21 years of age, you will receive an “under 21” driver’s license. On your 21st birthday or after, you might be eligible to have the “under 21” removed from your driver’s license. You can apply to have the “under 21” removed from your GA driver’s license online or using the DDS 2 Go mobile app.

Acceptable Identification Documents in Georgia

A REAL ID is a new system for a federal ID that will be effective starting May 3, 2023. Like many U.S. states, Georgia is a REAL ID-compliant state. What does this mean for you? This ID will be accepted at military bases, airports, and federal buildings. If you are undocumented, you are not eligible for a GA REAL ID. In the state of Georgia, acceptable identification documents include your:

  • Birth certificate
  • Passport
  • Armed forces ID cards
  • Permanent resident card
  • Certificate of naturalization
  • If you have a foreign passport with a valid I-94, the expiration date must be more than two months from the date you visit the GA licensing office

Here are a few true full name verification documents you can use:

  • Adoption documentation that includes your legal name as a result of the adoption
  • Name change documents that contain your legal name before or after the name change
  • A marriage certificate
  • A dissolution of marriage document that includes your legal name as a result of a court order

You will also need to show proof of residency. Acceptable proof of residency documentation includes:

  • Utility bills (these bills also include cell phone bills)
  • Insurance documents
  • Georgia vehicle or vessel registration or title
  • A record of a financial institution

There are different instances in this situation. In this instance, legal guardians, children, and parents can use a birth certificate. Spouses or domestic partners can use a marriage license or domestic partnership registration certificate as proof of their relationship to the individual of whom the acceptable residency documentation was addressed.

Getting Your Driver’s License as a New Resident of Georgia

As a new resident of the Peach State, you are required to transfer your vehicle’s registration within 30 days of establishing residency in the state of Georgia at your local Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR).

In order to transfer your driver’s license from your previous state to the state of Georgia, you need to be prepared for the GA DOR to take your photo for your new driver’s license. You will be required to surrender your driver’s license from your previous residing state in order to receive a new GA driver’s license. You will also be required to complete a knowledge exam and road skills test.

If you have an out-of-state driver’s license that has been expired for more than two years, or your driver’s license was lost or stolen, you will need to take different steps to obtain a valid GA driver’s license. You must be at least 18 years old, or 17 years old with an equivalent Class C driver’s license. All documents you present to your local GA DOR must be in English.

Required Documentation

Keep in mind, you will need certain documents to obtain a valid driver’s license in Georgia. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Original documents showing your:
    • Identity
    • Residential address
    • Social security number
    • U.S. citizenship (or proof of lawful status in the United States)
  • 2 documents proving your Georgia residency (such as a utility bill, bank statement, or rental contract)
  • Current out-of-state driver’s license (your license can’t be expired for more than two years)
  • Payment for the GA licensing fees (can be paid in cash or by credit card)

Transferring Your Driver’s License

You are required to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license in person at your local GA DDS customer service center. You will need to:

  • Complete a paper or digital application at a kiosk
  • Pass the required vision exam
  • A DMV employee will review your documents, collect the necessary fees, and take your photo
  • Depending on your circumstances, you will receive your new GA driver’s license the same day or receive a temporary GA driver’s license until your permanent GA license arrives in the mail.

The Georgia Written Exam, Vision Test, and Road Test

In order to receive your valid GA driver’s license, you will need to pass the GA DMV written exam, vision test, and road test.

Georgia Written Exam

The GA written exam to obtain your driver’s license consists of 40 questions, 30 questions of which you must answer correctly to pass the exam with a minimum passing score of 75%. The minimum age to apply to take the Georgia written exam is 15. Be advised that you must begin your GA permit test at least 30 minutes before the GA service center is scheduled to close to ensure you have enough time to take the written exam and receive your Georgia permit or license if you pass the test. You will pay $10 for your learner’s permit, and it valid for two years. If you are under the age of 18, parental permission is required to receive your permit. The cost for a standard GA driver’s license is $32 and valid for eight years.

Georgia Vision Test

When you are applying for your GA driver’s license or permit for the first time, you are required to have a vision test performed. The GA vision test is performed to determined how well you can see the road signs and other drivers. Your eyes will be test with a mechanical device at the GA DDS customer service center. If you wish to obtain a Georgia driver’s license or Georgia learner’s permit, you must have 20/60 in one eye and at least 140-degree field of vision. If you fail the field of vision screening, you must have a Vision Report Form (Form DDS-MR274) completed by a licensed optometrist.

If you have a vision restriction on your GA driver’s license and opt to have vision correction surgery, you must visit a GA customer service center and pass the vision exam to have the vision restriction removed from your driver’s license.

Georgia Road Test (In-Car)

The Georgia road test is the last part of the process for obtaining a valid GA driver’s license or GA learner’s permit. This test takes places in a vehicle and determines how well you can operate the vehicle while following Georgia’s traffic laws. You are required to sign an affidavit confirming that you have completed 40 hours of supervised road driving which must include six hours of night driving. Before you can take the GA road test, you must take and pass the GA driver’s license knowledge and vision tests.

Make sure you take a paper copy of the vehicle registration and the vehicle’s valid insurance card. If the vehicle you plan to use to take your GA road test is a rental car, you need to make sure the name of the person taking the road test is listed on the rental agreement.

If your vehicle has temporary tags or the vehicle was purchased within the last 30 days, you are required to present a bill of sale. The vehicle is required to pass a safety inspection performed by the GA DDS before you can use the vehicle to complete the road test. If you have a suspended license, you are not eligible to take the GA road test.

Applicants are required to be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. The applicant and a licensed driver who is at least 21 years of age is allowed in the car during the road test. Children and pets are not allowed in the vehicle during the GA road test.

Be advised that in-car (road testing) can be suspended as a result of inclement weather, equipment failure, or other circumstances that are beyond your control and the control of your examiner.

Non-Commercial Class A or B Driver’s Licenses in Georgia

A non-commercial Class A or Class B driver’s license in the state of Georgia is a license for individuals who operate a Class A or Class B commercial vehicle, but for non-commercial use.

The basic requirements for obtaining a non-commercial Class A or Class B driver’s license in Georgia is as follows:

  • Must be 18 years of age
  • Have a minimum of three months or 3,000 miles of driving experience in a vehicle that represents the driver’s license class for which you are applying
  • Must have a valid GA driver’s license

Required Documentation

You must submit an Application for Issuance of Non-Commercial Class E or Class F (Form DS-36). This form must be signed by a public agency employer or you are required to self-certify attesting that you have met the necessary GA driving requirements.

Planning Your Visit

Be advised that all customers who are visiting a GA center are required to submit the required online license, ID, and permit form. During your visit, you must be prepared to present:

  • All the necessary documentation
  • Pass the GA vision exam
  • Pass the GA non-commercial knowledge exam
  • Have your photo taken
  • Pay all applicable GA licensing fees

Married, Divorced, or Changed Your Name?

In the state of Georgia, you may be asked to provide name change documentation if you are applying for a new GA driver’s license or ID card. Keep in mind that you might have to submit a name change document(s), such as a valid marriage license, in order to obtain a REAL ID-compliant GA driver’s license or ID card in your true full name.

If the name on your identification documentation is different from the name you provided on your application, you must submit valid documentation that proves your true full name. Examples of acceptable documentation that establish your true full name include:

  • Adoption documents that contain your legal name as a result of the adoption
  • A marriage certificate
  • Name change documentation that includes the legal name of both before and after the name change
  • A declaration, certificate, or registration documentation that verifies the formation of a domestic partnership
  • A dissolution of marriage/domestic partnership documentation that contains the legal name as a result of the court action

Does the REAL ID Act Impact Residents of Georgia?

All state-issued driver’s licenses and identification cards are required to be REAL ID-compliant by May 3, 2023. In the state of Georgia, a REAL ID is referred to as a secure ID. The only visible difference from standard IDs and REAL IDs is the gold or black star that will be printed on the top right corner of the REAL ID.

Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in Georgia?

If your ID or driver’s license is not a REAL ID, you must visit a customer service center and provide proof of all your identification documents. To successfully obtain your REAL ID in the state of Georgia, you must provide:

  • Identity documentation (an original or certified document that proves who you are, such as a birth certificate, U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization)
  • Social security number
  • Two documents proving Georgia residency (phone bill, utility bill) The documents must show your street address and dated within the last six months

Applying for a Commercial Driver’s License in Georgia

If you’re interested in becoming a truck driver for hire, whether you’re consider it as a career or short-term, the state of Georgia requires you to obtain a Georgia commercial driver’s license (CDL). Be advised that there are strict state and federal requirements for operating a commercial vehicle that requires you to take specific steps and provide certain documentation to be eligible for a Georgia commercial driver’s license.

Keep in mind that with New Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT), starting February 7,2022, all entry-level drivers are subject to the requirements in the FMCSA Entry-Level Driver Training regulations. These standards include drivers who are applying for a Class A or Class B for the first time, drivers who are upgrading an existing CDL to a higher class, drivers who are adding a new school bus passenger, or Hazmat Endorsement.

There are three classes of commercial driver’s license – A, B, and C. Each class of driver’s license has different criteria.

Class A

A truck trailer or tractor-semitrailer combination in which the combined weight exceeds a weight of 26,001 pounds, and the unit that is being towed exceeds of the weight of 10,000 pounds. Drivers who have a Class A license are allowed to operate Class B and Class C vehicles as long as they have the required endorsements. Applicants are required to obtain a Class C driver’s license before they can obtain a Class A license and be at least 18 years old.

Class B

Single vehicles weigh 26,001 pounds or exceed 26,001 pounds, and the unit being towed is less than 10,000 pounds. Drivers who have a Class B driver’s license are permitted to operate motor vehicles included in Class C. Applicants are required to possess a Class C driver’s license before they can obtain a Class B driver’s license and be at least 18 years of age.

Class C

Commercial driver’s licenses are issued only when the vehicle is designed to transport 16 or more passengers (including the driver) or utilized to transport hazardous materials in quantities that require placarding.

Applying for a CDL in Georgia

When you’re applying for a CDL in the state of Georgia, there are different steps you need to take and specific documents you need to provide.

Getting the Required Documents

  • Complete the Commercial Application (CAP) at any Customer Service Center (the CAP fee is $35 and valid for four testing attempts. After the fourth failed attempt, a new CAP fee of $35 and CAP testing is required. If 360 days pass in between testing attempts, you will be charged a fee of $35 and have to take a new CAP test. Fees are waived for veterans and school bus drivers who present the required waiver.)
    • Veterans – view CDL Military Waivers here
    • School bus drivers 0 view School Bus Endorsement Information here
  • Federal and state regulations require drivers to certify their driving category, such as the type of driving they will be engaged in. The self-certification will determine if you will be required to Provide a copy of your medical card. If required, you might have to provide your medical card and/or medical waivers.
    • Click here for more information regarding CDL Medical Certification and Self-Certification Process.
  • New applicants of the state of Georgia are required to surrender their out-of-state driver’s license/permit/ID card
  • If you were issued a driver’s license/permit/ID card in a different state, and have lost the card or the cared has been stolen, you are required to:
    • Provide a copy of your driving record or motor vehicle report (MVR) from the state that issued the card
    • The MVR is required to be dated within the last 60 days to be deemed valid
    • Documentation proving your identity, residential address, and U.S. citizenship or proof of lawful status in the United States (check here for REAL ID requirements in the state of Georgia)

Be advised that a copy of these documents can be faxed to the DDS directly from the other state agency. When you visit the Customer Service Center, be prepared to present, and submit all of your documents, pass a vision exam, and pay the necessary fees.

Federal Self-Certificate Requirements

In Georgia, you are required to self-certify the type of vehicle you’ll be operating with the GA DMV, meaning that you must self-certify one of the following driving categories:

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

Applying for a Georgia Motorcycle License

In the state of Georgia, you must meet certain criteria in order to operate a motorcycle on Georgia’s roads and highways.

Basic Requirements

  • You must be at least 17 years old
  • Pass the GA Motorcycle Skills Test, two methods are available:
    • Complete a Georgia Motorcycle Safety Program Course. Once completed, you will need to present the 90-day License Test Waiver to a DDS Customer Service Center
    • Take the Motorcycle Riders Skills Test at a DDS Customer Service Center
  • If you are under the age of 18, you are required to complete Joshua’s Law Requirements

Be advised that all customers who are visiting a center are required to submit the necessary online license/ID/permit form. You can start here.

If you are taking an automobile, motorcycle skills, or CDL road test, don’t forget to schedule a road test appointment. Click here for more information.

Obtain the Required Documents

  • You are required to present documentation that proves your identity, residential address, and U.S. citizenship, or proof of lawful status in the United States. Be advised that your full social security number is required on the license/ID/permit form. Click here to find out information regarding REAL ID requirements.

If you are under the age of 18:

  • You are required to provide an ADAP or eADAP certificate of completion
  • You must provide proof of school enrollment (all documents are required to contain your first and last name) Click here for a list of acceptable school enrollment documents.
  • To comply with Joshua’s Law, you are required to bring a Certificate of Completion for the driver education course. The course must be completed at a DDS Certified Driving Training School.
  • Click here for more information regarding DDS Certified Driving Training Schools.
  • You must surrender all out-of-state driver’s licenses, permits, or ID cards
  • If you were issued a driver’s license/permit/ID card in a different state, and that card has been lost or stolen you are required to provide a copy of your driving record or motor vehicle report (MVR) from the state that issued the card
    • The MVR must be dated within the last 60 days
    • All documents must be in English

Keep in mind that a copy of your MVR can be faxed to DDS directly from the other state agency. During your visit, you must show all required documentation, pass a knowledge exam (if applicable), pass a vision exam, and have your photo taken. You can find information regarding the GA knowledge exam here. Information about the GA vision exam can be found here.

Taking the Motorcycle Skills Test

You must complete the Georgia Motorcycle Skills Test at a Customer Service Center (CSC).

  • If you are exempt from completing both the GA written and skills tests, you must take the 90-day Motorcycle License Test Waiver to the center with you.
  • Pay all applicable Georgia licensing fees

Motorcycle Skills Testing at a Customer Service Center

The Georgia Rider Skills Test (RST) is used for both two-wheeled (RST-2W) and three-wheeled vehicles (RST-3W). Both of these tests consist of four riding evaluations that determine your control of the motorcycle and your hazard-response skills. The final two tests involve speeds of approximately 15 miles per hour. For more information regarding these evaluations, click here for access to the Georgia Motorcycle Operators Manual.

Your score on these evaluations will be based on time/distance standards as well as path violations. Your evaluation could be ended early due to:

  • Point accumulation
  • Committing an unsafe act
  • Failure to understand or follow instructions

When you report to the testing site, you need to have:

  • A DOT-approved helmet and protective goggles
  • For safety reasons, it is suggested that you wear long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and sturdy footwear
  • You are required to furnish your street-legal motorcycle for the test
  • You are required to pass a safety inspection of the motorcycle before you can begin the motorcycle test
  • You need to have your motorcycle registration, proof of ownership documentation, and a valid GA motorcycle insurance policy
  • If the motorcycle has temporary tags or was purchased within the last 30 days, you are required to present a bill of sale

Be advised that you have the right to cancel the motorcycle road test at any time. Make sure you inform the examiner that you do not wish to continue the test. The examiner will explain the necessary requirements for taking the test at a later date and time.

The examiner also has the right to stop the test if you:

  • Fail to demonstrate basic control skills
  • Accumulate more than the maximum number of penalty points allowed
  • Commit any unsafe act
  • Fail to understand or follow directions
  • Fall or drop the motorcycle

If any of these scenarios occur, the motorcycle test will be discontinued. Motorcycle testing can be suspended due to circumstances that are beyond your or the examiner’s control, such as inclement weather and/or equipment failure.

Georgia DDS Locations

There are multiple Department of Driver Services locations throughout the state of Georgia where you can obtain a GA driver’s license. Here is a list of a few different GA DDS branch locations.

Georgia Department of Driver Services – Conyers Branch
2206 Eastview Pkwy
Conyers, GA 30013
(770) 918-5822

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (8 AM – 6 PM)
Saturday (8 AM – 12 PM)
Sunday and Monday (Closed)

Georgia Department of Driver Services – Lithonia Branch
8040 Rockbridge Rd
Lithonia, GA 30058
(678) 413-8400

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday (7: 30 AM – 6:30 PM)
Saturday (7:30 AM – 12 PM)
Sunday and Monday (Closed)

Georgia Department of Driver Services – Atlanta Branch
141 Pryor St SW
Ste 1085
Atlanta, GA 30303
(404) 613-6100

Monday – Friday (8 AM – 4:30 PM)
Saturday and Sunday (Closed)

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