Georgia Now Has More Stringent Driver License Renewal Requirements—Learn About Georgia's New  Driver’s License Procedure

As the year of 2014 begins—I looked back in 2013 and realized that many consumers (those relocating to Georgia—along with current residents of Georgia) had posed numerous questions about Georgia's new Driver's License and ID Card requirements.

It was a question that I realized I was unable to answer appropriately—until I looked well into the matter—in the late fall of 2013. 

On this page I will share with you what I have learned—so that you can avoid potential headaches that the new requirements may pose for you.

Key points to remember:

• Check the expiration date on the right side of your Georgia Driver’s License—or Georgia ID Card—if you currently have one

• If your license or ID card is expiring this year—plan ahead—as there are new requirements

• If you are new to Georgia—or you anticipate moving to Georgia—be sure you too—are aware of the new guidelines—and plan ahead so that you can be in compliance

If your renewal is forthcoming this year—or you are a new arrival in Georgia—and you will be transferring your driver’s license to Georgia—you have to bring four (4) documents to get a “gold star” on the top right hand corner of your license.

The four documents that you will need include the following:

1)    An original/certified document to prove who you are—such as a birth certificate or passport

2)    Your Social Security card

3)    Two documents showing your residential address—such as a bank statement or utility bill

4)    If your name has changed—you will also need to bring a document to prove that—such as a marriage license

Another way o looking at it is that you will need a BPS BUM—or a Birth Certificate—Passport—Social security Card—and a—Bank Statement—Utility Statement or Marriage License—Etcetera!

If you are a non-citizen or you are one who are missing any of these documents—you will need to use the Georgia Department of Driver Services Checklist (click on the online services tab on top left of home page to set up your account) which will provide you the full checklist of all of the documents that they accept!

If you already possess a Georgia Driver’s License or ID Card—and already have the “gold star” printed on your license—you have already presented the needed documents—and you may no longer have to do so in the future!

If you already possess a Georgia Driver’s License or ID Card—and already have the “gold star” printed on your license—you have the option of renewing online for the next 16 years—if you meet the age qualification.

Other Key Points:

• You may renew your license up to 150 days before the expiration date

• You can obtain licensing services at any center—statewide—not necessarily in the county that you live in

• Be sure to consider online renewals—if you qualify

• You can now possibly change your address, replace a lost license—and obtain a copy of your driving record—online

 

Also be aware that certain transactions must be completed in person—however if you have the “gold star” on your license in the right hand corner—you may be eligible to renew online. 

 

Another key point is to realize upfront—that if you have to go in person to apply or renew—plan ahead—as delays can—and do occur. 

You can create an IDC (Individual Document Checklist) that will address the documents that you need—and you can print a detailed list of all mandatory requirements to prove identity—residency—and social security card verification!

By keeping the above tips in mind—you will make your Georgia Driver's License or ID Card renewal experience less stressful!

You will also be on your way (whether you apply online or in person) to a more successful and a more time-efficient—renewal or application process!

Full File Disclosure From LexisNexis

Birth Certificates & Other Vital Records

Return to Top

Return From New Georgia Driver's License Requirement to Realty 1 Strategic Advisors Home Page