Driving in Georgia
Can I get a driver's license?
Georgia recognizes valid driver licenses issued to and held by residents of other countries as long as the "Out Of Country" license is valid (not expired). Generally, you may drive in Georgia for up to one year on a valid foreign or International license. You do not need to apply for a Georgia license unless you become a resident of Georgia. If you choose to become a resident, you must meet the requirements for Identity, Citizenship and Residency.
It is critical to remember that all documents must be in English.
Applying for your GA License
In order to receive a license, you must pass Georgia's written, road, and vision tests. You will need to schedule an appointment to take this test. You can practice for the written DDS exam on the DDS website.
What documents do I need to take with me?
All documents should be current and valid.
- Passport
- Visa
- I-20 or DS-2019
- I-94 (remember that this document changes every time you leave/enter the country, so you will have to print a new I-94 copy after you travel)
- Proof of address in the US (examples include the following: US bank statement, utility/phone bill, apartment rental lease, or anything else official with your name that comes to you in the mail) OR a letter confirming your on-campus address in the US (from your international student advisor). For a list of accepted documents, visit the DDS website.
- Note: If you are married and have changed your name, you will need to take your marriage certificate.
Social Security Number Requirements
If you already have a Social Security Number
If you already have a Social Security Number, you will need to take your Social Security Card with you to apply for a license.
If you do not currently have a Social Security Number
If you do not have a social security number, you must obtain a "Letter of Denial" (Form SSAL676) from the Social Security Administration office. This form is not available online, and you must obtain the form from your local Social Security Administration Office before visiting a DDS Customer Service Center to apply for a driver's license.
How much does it cost to get a license?
There are fees associated with getting a driver's license. Students will be obtaining a Class C license. Find the DDS fees associated with the service you are seeking.
Renewing a License
What do I need to know?
- You must be registered in SEVIS for the semester before attempting to renew your license.
- You will not be able to renew your license if your F-1/J-1 status is pending for any of the following reasons:
- You are currently in the Reinstatement process
- You are currently waiting on a status change to F-1 status (example: you are an F-2 with a pending F-1 status)
What documents do I need to take with me?
All documents should be current and valid.
- Passport
- Visa
- I-20 or DS-2019
- I-94 (remember that this document changes every time you leave/enter the country, so you will have to print a new I-94 copy after you travel)
- Letter confirming your address in the US (from your international student advisor) or other proof of residency
- Note: If you are married and have changed your name, you will need to take your marriage certificate.
How long will my driver's license be valid?
Your license will expire on your program end date listed on your I-20/DS-2019.
How much does it cost to renew my license?
There are fees associated with getting a driver's license. Students will be obtaining a Class C license. Find the DDS fees associated with the service you are seeking.
By law you are required to have car insurance. Once you have purchased car insurance, you must keep proof of your insurance in your vehicle. For more information about purchasing car insurance in Georgia, visit the Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner website. You can also do an internet search for insurance providers and compare rates. You must have car insurance in order to register your vehicle.
If you decide to purchase your own vehicle, you must pay to register your vehicle. You will have to renew your registration each year. In order to register your vehicle, you will need to visit your county's local Tax Commissioner's office. Below are links to a few of the surrounding counties. If yours is not listed below, you can do a simple internet search to locate your county's Tax Commissioner's office.