How to Reinstate a Suspended License in Georgia (DDS Guide)

December 2, 2025
4 Min Read

Having your driver’s license suspended in Georgia brings your life to a halt. Whether it was due to a missed court date, points accumulation, or a DUI, the path to getting back on the road doesn’t have to be a mystery.

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) has a structured process for reinstatement. The good news? You can often handle much of the process online and even save money on fees by doing so.

This guide will break down exactly how to check your status, the specific requirements for common suspensions, and how to get your license back as fast as possible.

How To Check Your Georgia License Status (Suspension)

Before you pay a dime or sign up for a class, you need to see exactly what the DDS has on your file. Suspension requirements vary wildly from person to person.

  1. Create an Online Account: Go to the Georgia DDS Online Services portal.
  2. View Your Reinstatement Letter: Once logged in, you can view your official “Reinstatement Requirements.”This is a personalized checklist telling you exactly:
    • Why you are suspended.
    • When your eligibility date begins.
    • What fees you owe.
    • What courses (if any) you must take.

Pro Tip: Download the “DDS 2 GO” mobile app to check this status from your phone instantly.

What Are The Common Suspension Reasons & Solutions To reinstatement

Your path to reinstatement depends entirely on why you lost your license. Here are the most common scenarios:

1. Suspension for Points (15 Points in 24 Months)

If you accumulate 15 points within two years, your license is suspended.

  • The Fix: You must complete a DDS-approved Defensive Driving Course.
  • The Fee: $200 (Online) / $210 (In-Person/Mail).

2. Super Speeder Suspension

If you were ticketed for driving 85+ mph on a highway (or 75+ on a 2-lane road), you are a “Super Speeder.” You must pay a $200 fine to the state in addition to your traffic ticket. If you didn’t pay it, you are suspended.

  • The Fix: Pay the original $200 Super Speeder fee + a $50 reinstatement fee.
  • The Fee: Approx $250 total.

3. DUI (Driving Under the Influence)

This is the most complex suspension.

  • The Fix: You typically must complete a DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program (often called “DUI School”) and undergo a clinical evaluation.
  • The Fee: $200 (Online) / $210 (In-Person/Mail) for a first offense.

4. Failure to Appear (FTA)

This happens if you missed a court date or failed to pay a traffic ticket.

  • The Fix: You must go to the court that issued the warrant/suspension. Pay your fine to the court and get a DPS-912 form (Court Release).
  • The Fee: $90 (Online) / $100 (In-Person/Mail) paid to DDS after the court clears you.

How to Pay Your Reinstatement Fees (And Save Money)

You have three ways to pay, but one is better than the others.

  • Method 1: Online (Recommended): If you pay via the DDS Online Services or the app, you typically receive a $10 discount on reinstatement fees. Your status is updated almost instantly.
  • Method 2: By Mail: You can mail a money order or cashier’s check (no personal checks) to the DDS in Conyers, GA. This is the slowest method.
  • Method 3: In-Person: You can visit a DDS Customer Service Center. Expect wait times and slightly higher fees ($210 vs $200).

Can I Drive While Suspended? (Limited Permits)

If this is your first suspension (for offenses like a first DUI or Points violation), you might be eligible for a Limited Driving Permit. This permit allows you to drive to:

  • Work or School.
  • Medical appointments.
  • Substance abuse treatment or driver education classes.

Note: You must apply for this in person at a DDS center. It is not valid for commercial driving.

Eligibility for Reinstatement

You are eligible to reinstate your license when:

  1. Time: You have served the mandatory “hard suspension” period (if applicable).
  2. Action: You have completed all court-ordered classes (Defensive Driving, DUI School).
  3. Payment: You have paid all fines to the court and all reinstatement fees to the DDS.
Conclusion

Getting your Georgia license reinstated is a matter of following the checklist provided in your DDS Online account. Avoid driving until your status officially says “Valid” on the website. By handling your fees online and completing your required courses promptly, you can restore your freedom to drive faster and cheaper.