How to Replace a Lost or Stolen Georgia Driver’s License

Losing your wallet is a nightmare, but replacing your Georgia driver’s license doesn’t have to be. Whether you left it at a TSA checkpoint or it was stolen, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) offers three ways to get a new card.

The Golden Rule: If your lost license had a Gold or Black Star (Real ID) in the top corner, you can replace it online or via the app in minutes. If it did not have a star (or you are not sure), you must visit a DDS center in person to upgrade to a Secure ID.

Method 1: The “DDS 2 GO” App (Fastest Option)

The modern way to handle this is through the official state app.

1. Download: Get the DDS 2 GO app from the App Store or Google Play.
2. Login: Use your DDS Online Services account.
3. Request Replacement: Select “Replace License/ID.”
4. Pay the Fee: The fee is $10.00.
5. Digital ID: While you wait for the mail, the app can serve as a reference for your license status.

Method 2: Replace Online (Best for Printing a Receipt)

If you have a printer and want a paper temporary license immediately, use the website.

• Go to: The DDS Online Services Portal.
• Log In: You will need your Driver’s License Number and Social Security Number.
• Action: Select “Replace Lost/Stolen Card.”
• Fee: Pay the $10.00 fee via credit/debit card.
• Print: You will be given a temporary driving permit (valid for 45 days) that you can print and drive with immediately.

Note: You can only use this method if your address has not changed. If you need to change your address and replace your license, you must do the “Address Change” transaction instead.

Method 3: In-Person (Required for Non-Real ID Holders)

You must go in person if you do not have a Real ID (Gold Star) or if you need to update your photo.

1. Do You Need an Appointment? No. Most DDS centers accept walk-ins, but filing the DS-23 Online Application before you go will save you 20 minutes at the kiosk.

2. The Document Checklist (The “Real ID” Stack): If you are replacing a non-Secure ID (old style), you must bring original documents to prove your identity again:

• 1 Proof of Identity: (Original Birth Certificate or valid Passport).
• 1 Proof of SSN: (Social Security Card or W-2).
• 2 Proofs of Residency: (Utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement dated within the last 6 months).
• Fee: $10.00 (Cash, Card, or Apple Pay).

Method 4: By Mail (Strictly for Out-of-State Residents)

You can only replace your license by mail if you are temporarily living outside Georgia (e.g., active duty military, college students).

• You must download the Mail-In License Replacement Packet from the DDS website.
• It takes nearly 30 days to process. If you are in Georgia, do not use this method.

Important Fees & Rules

• Replacement Fee: $10.00
• Renewal Rule: If your lost license was set to expire within 150 days (5 months), the system will require you to renew it instead of replacing it. The fee will be $32.00, but you will get a full 8-year extension.
• Stolen Licenses: If your license was stolen, you should file a police report for your own protection against identity theft. However, DDS does not waive the $10 fee even with a police report.

What Happens Next?

• Delivery Time: Your permanent plastic card will arrive by mail in 30-45 days.
• Driving: You can legally drive with the temporary paper receipt (from online/in-person) or by showing your status on the DDS 2 GO app if stopped by law enforcement (though a physical paper copy is always safer).

Conclusion

Don’t risk a ticket by driving without a license. If you have a Real ID, download the DDS 2 GO app and order a replacement for $10 immediately. If you haven’t upgraded to Real ID yet, take this opportunity to gather your documents and visit a DDS center to get your Gold Star.