What you need to do to get a replacement Georgia ID

To replace a lost Georgia ID, you will need to visit a Department of Driver Services (DDS) office in person with proof of identity and residency. Georgia does not issue replacement IDs by mail, and you cannot order one online. The process takes about 30 minutes at the office, and you will receive a temporary ID on the spot while your permanent card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days.

You will pay a replacement fee at the time of your visit. The cost depends on how much time remains on your current ID — if your ID expires within one year, the fee is lower than if it has more than one year left. Bring a valid payment method: DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a DDS office in person with a government-issued photo ID and proof of your current Georgia address to replace a lost ID.
  • The replacement fee varies based on your ID's expiration date, ranging from about $20 to $32 depending on how long your current ID was valid for.
  • You will receive a temporary paper ID when ready that is valid for 30 days while your permanent replacement card is mailed to you.
  • Your permanent replacement ID arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days; you do not need to return to the office to pick it up.
  • DDS offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, and you can find your nearest location and current wait times on the DDS website.

Documents you must bring to the DDS office

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID — a U.S. passport, military ID, passport card, or out-of-state driver's license all work. If you do not have any of these, you can bring a combination of documents like a birth certificate plus a Social Security card, but this takes longer and may require additional paperwork.

You also need proof that you live in Georgia right now. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and current address. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. The address on your proof of residency must match the address you want on your new ID.

Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will need it to complete the process form at the DDS office. If you do not know your number, you can contact the Social Security Administration before your visit, but this will delay your replacement.

Finding a DDS office near you and what to expect

Georgia has DDS offices in most counties. You can search for the office closest to you on the official DDS website by entering your city or county. The website also shows current wait times at each location, updated throughout the day. Some offices have longer waits than others, so checking the wait time before you go can save you time.

You do not need an appointment — DDS offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis. However, some locations offer online check-in, which lets you reserve your place in line before you arrive. If your local office offers this, you can check in from home and arrive when your turn is close.

Bring all your documents in a folder or envelope so they do not get lost or damaged. The DDS staff will review them, take a new photo of you, and process your replacement right there. The entire visit usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.

Understanding the temporary ID and when your permanent card arrives

When you finish at the DDS office, you will receive a temporary paper ID printed on the spot. This temporary ID is valid for 30 days and works as a legal form of identification for driving, entering bars or clubs, and most other purposes. Keep it in a safe place — if you lose it before your permanent card arrives, you will need to return to the DDS office and pay another replacement fee.

Your permanent replacement ID is mailed to the address you provided at the DDS office. Standard mail delivery takes 7 to 10 business days from the date you applied. If you do not receive it within two weeks, contact the DDS office where you applied and provide your process number, which was printed on your temporary ID.

Once your permanent card arrives, the temporary ID is no longer valid. Destroy it or keep it as a record — you do not need to return it to DDS. Your new permanent ID is valid for eight years if you are under 49 years old, or five years if you are 49 or older.

Replacement fees and payment methods

The replacement fee depends on how long your original ID was valid for. If your ID expired or will expire within one year from the date you explore, the fee is approximately $20. If your ID has more than one year remaining, the fee is approximately $32. These amounts can change, so confirm the exact fee when you arrive at the office.

DDS offices accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards. They do not accept checks or payment plans. If you cannot pay the full fee on the day of your visit, you will not be able to complete the replacement that day.

What to do if you cannot visit a DDS office in person

Georgia law requires you to explore for a replacement ID in person at a DDS office. There is no mail-in option, no online option, and no way to have someone else explore on your behalf. If you are unable to travel to an office due to a disability or medical condition, contact the DDS office in your county to ask about accommodations or alternative arrangements.

If you are temporarily out of state, you can still explore for a replacement when you return to Georgia. Your temporary ID is valid for 30 days, which gives you time to travel back and visit a DDS office. If you will be out of state longer than 30 days, you may want to wait until you return to explore, since the temporary ID will expire before your permanent card arrives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my Georgia ID if it is suspended or revoked?

No. If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot replace it at a DDS office. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the court system or by meeting the conditions DDS set. Contact the DDS office or check your suspension notice for the specific steps you need to take before you can explore for a replacement.

What if I lost my ID and do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can bring a combination of documents instead: a Social Security card, voter registration card, school ID, or employee ID, along with proof of residency. DDS will review what you bring and tell you if you need additional documents. This process takes longer than a standard replacement, sometimes 45 minutes to an hour.

Do I need to report my lost ID to the police?

You do not have to, but you can if you are concerned about identity theft. A police report is not required to replace your ID at DDS. If someone uses your lost ID fraudulently, you can file a report later and provide DDS with the report number for your records.

Can I change my address or name when I replace my lost ID?

Yes. When you explore for a replacement, you can update your address to a new Georgia address if you have moved. To change your name, you will need to bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing the name change. Tell the DDS staff what changes you want before they process your process.

What happens if my replacement ID arrives with an error?

Contact the DDS office where you applied and explain the error. Bring your temporary ID and the incorrect permanent ID with you. DDS will issue a corrected replacement at no additional charge if the error was made by DDS. If the error was caused by incorrect information you provided, you may be charged another replacement fee.