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New to Georgia? A Complete Guide to Exchanging Your Foreign Driver's License

Welcome to the Peach State! As you settle into your new life in Georgia, one of the first and most important tasks is to obtain a Georgia driver's license. If you are establishing residency, Georgia law requires you to get a state license within 30 days.

The process of exchanging a foreign license can seem confusing, as the requirements can differ based on your country of origin. This guide will provide a clear, step-by-step walkthrough for all newcomers, whether your home country has a special agreement with Georgia or not.

The Reciprocity Advantage: Who Can Skip the Driving Tests?

Georgia's Department of Driver Services (DDS) has reciprocity agreements with several countries. If you hold a valid, unexpired driver's license from one of these nations, the process is much simpler. You will be exempt from taking the written knowledge exam and the road skills test.

Countries with License Reciprocity in Georgia

  • Canada
  • France
  • Germany
  • South Korea (Republic of Korea)
  • Taiwan (Republic of China)

What does this mean for you? If your license is from one of these countries, you will still need to pass a vision test and provide all the necessary identity and residency documents, but you won't have to study for or take the driving tests.

If your license is from any country not on this list, you must apply for a new license from scratch. This involves passing the vision exam, the knowledge exam, and the road skills test.

The Step-by-Step Process for All Foreign License Holders

Whether you qualify for reciprocity or not, the first step is gathering the correct documentation. Georgia is a "Secure ID" state, meaning it has strict requirements for proving your identity and legal presence.

Step 1: Gather Your Secure ID Documents

This is the most critical part of the process. You must provide original or certified documents. Photocopies are not accepted.

  • Proof of Identity and Lawful Status: This is usually your valid foreign passport with a U.S. visa and a valid I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). Other documents may include a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document.
  • Proof of Social Security Number: You must provide your Social Security card. If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you must obtain an official denial letter (Form SSAL-676) from a Social Security Administration office.
  • Two Proofs of Georgia Residency: You must provide two different documents that show your name and current Georgia address. These must be dated within the last six months. Accepted documents include:
  • Utility bills (gas, electric, water)
  • Bank statements
  • Rental agreements
  • Employer verification
  • Your Foreign Driver's License: You must bring your current, valid license from your home country.
  • Certified English Translation (If Needed): If your foreign driver's license is not in English, you must provide a certified translation. The DDS provides a list of approved translators on their website. You must arrange and pay for this yourself.

Step 2: Pass the Required Tests

Once your documents are in order, you'll need to pass the required tests at a DDS Customer Service Center.

  • For Reciprocal Countries: You will only need to pass the Vision Exam. Your eyesight will be checked to ensure it meets the minimum standards for safe driving.
  • For All Other Countries: You must pass three separate tests:
  1. Vision Exam: Same as above.
  2. Knowledge Exam: This is a two-part test taken on a computer. You must pass both parts.
  • Road Signs Test: You must correctly identify 15 out of 20 common road signs.
  • Road Rules Test: You must correctly answer 15 out of 20 questions about Georgia traffic laws and safe driving practices. The official Georgia Driver's Manual is your study guide.
  1. Road Skills Test: After passing the knowledge exam, you will need to schedule a road test for a later date. This is the same on-the-road test that all new drivers take, including maneuvers like parallel parking, a three-point turn, and straight-line backing.

Step 3: Surrender Your License, Pay Fees, and Get Your GA License

This is the final step in the process.

  • Surrender Your Foreign License: All applicants exchanging a foreign license must surrender it to the DDS.
  • Pay the Fees: The standard fee for a new 8-year license is $32. Fees can be paid with cash, credit/debit card, or money order.
  • Get Your Picture Taken: Say cheese! Your photo will be taken for your new license.
  • Receive Your License: You will be issued a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. Your permanent, secure plastic license will be mailed to your address within 30 days.

Navigating a new country's bureaucracy can be challenging. By understanding the correct process for your situation and carefully preparing all your documents, you can make getting your Georgia driver's license a smooth and successful experience.