GA Drivers Manual November 2022 PDF

 MANUAL GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES CONTENTS DDS MISSION & CORE VALUES Our Mission...

 MANUAL GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES CONTENTS DDS MISSION & CORE VALUES Our Mission To provide secure driver and identity credentials to our customers with excellence and respect. LICENSES, PERMITS & IDENTIFICATION CARDS Our Core Values: Trusted Service Accountable to All General Licensing Information 4 Ethical Actions Motivated to Excellence Obtaining a License, Permit 8 ##ExcellenceIsWhatDRIVESUs! or Identifcation Card Testing Information 12 Title VI Policy Statement The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is committed to compliance Other Services and Information 14 with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and all related nondiscrimination authorities. DDS assures that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, low-income, and Limited English Profciency RULES, REGULATIONS, (LEP), be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefts of, or be oth- erwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. DDS further LAWS AND SAFETY assures that every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all programs and activities, whether or not those programs and activities are feder- Traffc Laws 17 ally funded. In addition, DDS will take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to services for persons with Limited English Profciency. Finally, DDS Teen Driving Laws 26 agrees to abide by the Title VI Program Assurances and to ensure that written agreements with any party for federally funded programs or services will include Signs, Signals, and Markings 28 the applicable Title VI language as provided in the Title VI Program Assurances. Safety Guidelines 38 The DDS Title VI Program Coordinator is responsible for oversight of the Title VI Program and ensuring compliance with the requirements provided in 49 Sharing the Road 42 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R) Part 21 and 49 C.F.R. Part 303. The Title VI Program Coordinator and all Division Directors are authorized to effectively implement the Title VI Program on behalf of the Department. Losing Your Driving Privileges 46 Crashes 50 DDS ONLINE SERVICES CARD SERVICES Submit Proof of Resi dency and/or Soci Address Change al Security Be certain to take advantage of DDS Online Services and avoid an unnecessary trip to a License/ID Renewa l or Replacement Class D to Class Customer Service Center. CDL Self-Certifica C Upgrade tion Medical Docume License Status nts DDS Online Services enable thousands of Georgia drivers to conduct many transactions Suspension or Rein statement Informati on via dds.georgia.gov and eliminate a visit to a DDS Customer Service Center (CSC). This PAY FEES Super Speeder saves customers valuable time and money. DDS does not charge an additional fee for License Reinstate ment Pending Suspensi choosing Online Services. A $5.00 discount may apply for eligible license types that are ons renewed on the internet. OTHER SERVICES Online For-Hire End orsement Applicat Skip a Step! (Com ion plete Driving History (MVR Form Online) ) Motorcycle Safety Training Registration Make Road Test App ointment Reservation Stat For more information visit the DDS website at: us dds.georgia.gov and like DDS on Facebook! DDS-2203-P (3/2017) The information contained in this manual is not intended to be an official legal reference to the Georgia traffic laws. It is intended only to explain, in everyday language, those laws, driving practices, and procedures that you will use most often. It should be noted that the material in this manual is subject to change to comply with amended State and Federal legislation. The department’s primary statutory responsibilities are set forth in Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) This publication is produced by the DDS Governmental Affairs & Communications Division. 1  MESSAGES GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE “I wish you safe passage and encourage you to exercise good judgment, follow driving laws, and prioritize safety for yourself, fellow motorists, and passengers.” Brian P. Kemp Governor GEORGIA.GOV COMMISSIONER’S MESSAGE BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MESSAGE “Operating a vehicle is a Board of Directors tremendous responsibility, and we want you to be fully Tony Guisasola-Member prepared to meet the David W. Connell challenges! Please pay Chair Rachel Little-Member particular attention to the Jeff Markey Christie Moore-Member sections on Traffic Laws, Bob Pierce-Member Vice Chair Teen Driving Laws and Safety Guidelines. By Britt Fleck Sheriff Frank Reynolds-Member obeying all traffic laws Secretary Kat Satterfield-Member and never driving distracted, we can ensure that our roads are safer for drivers and passengers The Department of Driver Services (DDS) Board of Directors would like to remind our customers that driving in Georgia is a privilege alike.” that carries many responsibilities. Please be a safe and dependable driver to ensure that this privilege will not be lost. This manual has Spencer R. Moore two main purposes: Commissioner (1) to help you qualify for a Georgia driver’s license; and (2) to help you become a safer driver. This guide is designed to provide you with the information to obtain and keep this type of license. Other manuals are available for com- DDS 2 GO mercial drivers and motorcycle operators. 2  VISION Safe drivers American Association of Safe vehicles Motor Vehicle Administrators Secure identities Saving lives! What to Do and Expect When Pulled Over by Police (Revised January 2021) Police officers are responsible for conducting traffic stops when they have reasonable suspicion of a traffic violation or a criminal violation. Being stopped by an officer can be a stressful experience for the driver, any passengers, and for the officer, too. Knowing what to do during the stop will help ensure your safety and the safety of others. When you see emergency lights behind you, it is important for you and your passengers to stay calm and cooperate. Remember to: Activate your turn signal and pull off or to the side of the roadway as soon as it is safe to do so. Turn off the engine and any audio devices. Stay in your vehicle unless directed by the officer to exit. Turn on your interior lights if you are pulled over at night to assist with visibility. Officers may use a spotlight for additional visibility. Keep your hands on the steering wheel or in a visible location so they are easily observable. Follow all instructions the officer gives you or your passengers. The officer may approach either side of the vehicle. When the officer approaches the vehicle, remember to: Lower the corresponding window so you and the officer can better communicate. Let the officer know if you have a weapon in the vehicle upon first contact. Wait for the officer's instructions before reaching for your driver's license or vehicle documents. When conducting the stop, the officer will typically: Show their law enforcement credentials if they are not in uniform. If they do not show their credentials, you may ask to see them. Explain why you were stopped/ask questions about your trip. Ask for your driver's license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration. If the documents are out of your reach, tell the officer where they are and wait for the officer's acknowledgement before reaching to retrieve the documents. In some cases, the officer may: Ask you to exit the vehicle. In this case, keep your hands visible, exit the vehicle, and stand in a location as directed by the officer. Impose a sanction such as a warning, traffic ticket, which may include a fine, or arrest. The officer will typically explain whatever action is being taken. If they do not, you may ask them to do so. If you have questions, respectfully ask the officer to clarify. If you disagree with the officer's decision or course of action, do not prolong the contact by arguing with the officer. Rather, you may seek to contest the decision in court through established legal channels. Your acceptance and signature on a traffic ticket is not an admission of guilt. However, the refusal to sign a traffic ticket may result in your arrest. If you believe the officer acted inappropriately or have questions regarding their conduct you may request to speak to a supervisor. This is best done as soon as possible after the stop. Following these procedures can help make a traffic stop a safe experience for all parties involved. This guidance was approved by the AAMVA Driver and Law Enforcement Standing Committees, by the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. IACP International Association of Chiefs of Police 4401 WILSON BLVD, SUITE 700, ARLINGTON, VA 22203 I 703.522.4200 I aamva.org 3  SECTION 1 GENERAL LICENSING has a valid license issued by his or her home state. This includes their spouse or dependent sion proof of payment of such tuition paid for the current or immediately preceding INFORMATION son or daughter who has a valid license is- period of enrollment. sued by their home state; This Section Covers Any person who is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States and who Applicants under age 18 — automobile or motorcycle Requirement to Obtain a has in his or her immediate possession a valid Georgia Driver’s License....................................... 4 license issued in a foreign country by the In addition to the requirements listed above, armed forces of the United States. However, applicants under 18 years of age must present Applicants under age 18....................................... 4 this license will only be accepted for a period proof of the following: Previous License, Instructional Permits, of not more than 45 days from the date of his or her return to the United States; All applicants under 18 years of age must have or Identification Cards........................................... 4 a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult Vision Requirements..............................................4 Any person temporarily driving or operat- present to sign the application and complete Classes of Licenses............................................... 5 ing a farm tractor or farm equipment on a a Responsible Adult Affidavit; highway for the purpose of conducting farm Fees/Forms of Payment........................................ 5 Completion of Alcohol and Drug Awareness business; Program (ADAP); License Restrictions...................................5 Any member of the reserve components of Satisfaction of school enrollment; see page Expired License...................................................... 6 the armed forces of the United States who is 30 for requirements; Carrying and Displaying operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased Your License........................................................... 6 to the United States government. However, the For a Class D license or for a Class M In- motor vehicle must be operated in accordance structional Permit (MP) at age 16 or age Real ID Documentation Requirements............. 6 with the duties of the person as a member of 17 proof of completion of a DDS approved the reserve components of the armed forces; driver education program plus evidence of Any person seeking to obtain a driver’s li- at least forty (40) hours of supervised cense while he or she is taking the driving driving, six of which must be at night. examination to obtain a license. This person Additional details concerning these require- must be accompanied by a Responsibile Adult with a valid driver's license and be at ments can be found on pages 30-32 of this man- least 21 years of age or a certified driver ual or on our website at dds.georgia.gov. examiner or agent of the department; Requirement to obtain a Georgia Driver’s License Any migrant farm worker who works in this Previous Licenses, state less than 90 days in any calendar year Instructional Permits or Georgia law requires that any person want- and who possesses a valid driver’s license Identifcation Cards ing to operate a motor vehicle on the roadways issued by another state; of this state obtain a Georgia driver’s license or Any resident who is 15 years of age or over permit within 30 days of becoming a resident. while taking actual in-car training in a In most cases, when applying for renewal, A person meeting at least one of the following non-commercial training vehicle and while replacement or transfer of any license, instruc- criteria is considered a Georgia resident accord- under the direct personal supervision of a tional permit, or identification card (ID Card) ing to Georgia law (O.C.G.A. §40-5-1): DDS-licensed driving instructor. A driving previously issued in Georgia or any other state A person who has a permanent home or instructor must test the eyesight of any un- or foreign jurisdiction, customers must surren- abode in Georgia and, when absent, has the licensed person who will be receiving actual der, the previously-issued license/permit/ID intent of returning; in-car training prior to the training, and the to DDS. In some cases, surrender of all valid person must meet the vision requirements licenses/permits/ID cards will be required. A person who accepts employment or en- listed on page 8 of this manual; Most non-citizen customers with a valid gages in any trade or occupation in Georgia Any person who is operating a personal out of country driver’s license, permit, or ID, or who enters his/her children in school; transportation vehicle on any roadway may retain their out of country document upon Any person that has been in the state for 30 issuance of a Georgia-equivalent document. days or more. publicly maintained for the use of personal U.S. citizens will not be allowed to retain any transportation vehicles only, or when cross- licenses, permits, or identification cards issued Not required to obtain a Georgia ing a street or highway used by other types to them by foreign countries. Driver’s License/Permit of motor vehicles at a location designated for such crossing by a motorized cart; Any employee of the United States govern- A nonresident of Georgia who is attending Vision Requirements ment who is operating a motor vehicle owned a school in this state, as long as: Customers for initial issuance of a driver’s by or leased to the United States government a. He or she is at least 16 years of age and has license must demonstrate the ability to meet or that is being operated on official business. in his or her immediate possession a valid minimum vision requirements. The This exemption does not apply if the em- license issued to him or her in his or her minimum acceptable vision for a non- ployee is required by the United States gov- home state or country and a valid inter- commercial license is 20/60 in one eye, with or ernment or any agency of the United States national driving permit if the license is in without corrective lenses, and a horizontal field Government to have a state driver’s license; a language other than English; provided, of vision of at least 140 de-grees. If you are A nonresident who is at least 16 years of age however, that any restrictions which would unable to pass the vision screen-ing and who has in his or her immediate posses- apply to a Georgia driver’s license apply administered at the DDS Customer Service sion a valid license issued to him or her in to the privileges given to this person; and Center, you will be given a Vision Report Form his or her home state or country. However, b. He or she is currently enrolled or was en- (DS-274) which must be completed by a licensed any restrictions that would apply to a Georgia rolled during the immediately preceding optometrist or opthalmologist and submitted to driver’s license as a matter of law would apply period of enrollment in a school in this DDS. The completed form will be evaluated to to any person who has an out-of-state license. state, has paid the tuition charged by the determine if you are eligible to obtain a driver’s school to nonresidents of Georgia for the license. This form may also be used to document A nonresident who is on active duty in the current or immediately preceding period armed forces of the United States if he or she the need for bioptic lenses for driving and is avail- of enrollment, and has in his or her posses- able on our website, dds.georgia.gov. 4 SECTION 1: GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION If you must wear glasses or contacts to pass equipped with a steering wheel and not handle- at the time of the free name or address change your initial vision screening, a corrective lens- bars. DDS will not administer road tests that at no charge. Any subsequent modifications es restriction will be placed on your license involve the use of an autocycle. require a full renewal at regular cost. Name when it is issued. Each time you complete a Georgia also issues Class A, B, and C com- changes must be in accordance with the require- transaction, you will be required to indicate mercial licenses. Information concerning these ments listed on page 20. whether you require glasses or contacts for licenses is included in the Georgia Commer- A replacement driver’s license, permit or ID driving. If your answer differs from the re- cial Drivers Manual, available at all DDS Cus- card is a duplicate of the replaced document (no sponse in our records, you may be required to tomer Service Centers and on our website at modifications or changes) and may be provided complete another vision screening or submit a dds.georgia.gov. at a cost of $5.00 per occurrence. The replace- current DS-274 for verification. ment license/permit/ID card will expire on the Customers age 64 and over must successfully original expiration date. However, if a replace- complete a vision screening every eight years. Fees/Forms of Payment ment is requested within 150 days of the original Customers who have obtained a license with a expiration date (or within 30 days of the original The fees for obtaining non-commercial driv- bioptic lenses restriction must provide updated expiration date for a motorcyle instructional per- er’s licenses, permits, and ID cards in person medical information to the Department every mit), the license/permit/ID must be renewed for are listed below. This fee schedule is not ad- two years. a new term at full cost. justed to refect the $5.00 discount for those who choose to renew online or via DDS 2 Go. All Classes of Licenses DDS Customer Service Centers accept cash, Visa License Restrictions and Mastercard credit and debit cards with a The issuance of licenses and permits in Geor- bank logo, and Discover and American Express gia is based on their categorization by Class. The credit cards and mobile pay options. We do not When issuing a driver’s license, DDS is au- various classes are associated with the types accept checks, money orders, or cashier checks. thorized to impose restrictions on your driver’s of vehicles that may be driven and the restric- license, whenever there is good cause, to assure tions that apply to operation of those vehicles. the safe operation of a motor vehicle. Any re- Listed below are the non-commercial classes strictions imposed will appear on your driver’s used in Georgia, along with a description of license. If no restrictions are imposed, the letter their purpose. “A” will appear in the License Restrictions area Pursuant to House Bill 136 (2017), three- on your license. The chart to the right lists the wheel autocycles will not require a Class M License, permit and ID card holders are al- restriction codes used by DDS. Licenses may be Motorcycle Operator's License. Autocycles are lowed one free name or address change per issued with multiple restriction codes. defined as three-wheel motor vehicles that are issuance term. Other changes can also be made NON-COMMERCIAL LICENSE, PERMIT, AND CLASSES IDENTIFICATION CARD FEES Class Purpose Type Term Fee Driver’s License (Class A, B, C, E, F, and M) 8 yr $32 Non-commercial license for Driver’s License (Class E and F) for Volunteer Firefghters 8 yr No Fee drivers age 18 and older. (Also for Provisional License (Class D) 5 yr $10 C drivers new to Georgia who are age 17 and who hold a valid Class Instructional Permit (Class A, B, C and M) 6 mth $10 C equivalent from another state.) Original Replacement Duplicate License/Permit/ID Card* $5 Expiration Date National Guard License 8 yr No Fee Provisional license issued to Veteran License (Combat Veteran) 8 yr No Fee D Veteran License (Non-Combat) Class A, B, C and M 8 yr $32 drivers ages 16 and 17. Honorary License 8 yr No Fee Controlled Substance Permit Up to 3 yr $25 M License for motorcycle operators. Habitual Violator Probationary License Up to 3 yr $210 Limited Permit Up to 1 yr $25 Georgia ID Card 8 yr $32 Non-commercial license for Georgia ID Card for Voting Purposes Only (must provide 8 yr No Fee drivers who operate commercial proof of valid voter registration) motor vehicles and who are HVPL/Limited Permit Replacement Original Term $20 E, F exempt from commercial licensing Equal to Original Term requirements. (Effective 1/1/2015, Limited Permit Renewal $5 of Permit Class E & F licenses are free for volunteer frefghters.) Veteran ID Card (Combat Veteran) 8 yr No Fee Veteran ID Card (Non-Combat Veteran) 8 yr $32 Handicap ID Card 8 yr $5 All instructional permits are Original Expiration Free Once CP, MP, Address or Name Change issued with the class designation Date per Term EP, FP followed by the letter “P.” *If a replacement license/permit/ID card is requested within 150 days of the original date, the license/per- mit/ID card must be renewed for a new term at full cost. 5  SECTION 1: GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION Expired License DDS License Restriction Codes To renew a driver’s license that has been expired more than two years, you must pass A no restrictions S power brakes or steering required a vision test, a driving test, and an exam to test B corrective lenses required T accompanied by disabled parent your knowledge of road signs and road rules. You must also meet Real ID documentation C vehicle mechanical aids required accompanied by visually impaired U requirements if you have not already done so. See parent the information below for more information D prosthetic aids required V medical variance about Real ID requirements. no manual transmission equipped E W valid farm waiver required CMV Carrying and Displaying F right exterior mirror required X no cargo in CMV tank vehicle Your License G daylight hours only Y hearing aid required You must have an appropriate driver’s license H employer vehicle only Z no full air brake or permit in your possession while operating a motor vehicle in the State of Georgia. If stopped I left exterior mirror required 1 bioptic lenses required while driving, you must display your driver’s license/permit to any law enforcement officer J automatic transmission required 2 Pursuant to Court Order upon his or her request. K intrastate commerce only Ignition Interlock Device restrictions 3 apply L no air brake equipped CMV 4 HPVL restrictions apply, no interlock M no class A passenger buses 5 business purpose only N no class A or B passenger buses 6 to and from medical only O no tractor trailer CMV 7 to and from school only P no passengers in CMV bus 8 Ignition Interlock required Q no passengers allowed 9 limited permit, no interlock R no highway/intersate Real ID Documentation Requirements The following are examples of acceptable documents to bring with you to be issued a Real ID. Identity Document - An original or certified document to prove WHO YOU ARE such as an original or certified Birth Certificate, US Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, I-551, etc. You must know your full Social Security Number. It will be verified with the Social Security Office electronically. Two Documents showing Georgia residence (e.g. utility bill, phone bill). Name Change - If your name is currently different than the "identity document" presented (such as birth certificate, passport, etc), you must provide a certified copy with seal; legal name change document (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.). NOTE: A Document is required even if your name is correct on current license/id. Minor's may present passport; however, proof of guardianship requires original/certified birth certificate or certified court ordered documents. Original immigration documentation must be submitted each time service is requested pertaining to a driver's license or identification card. Gender change - A gender update requires applicants to submit a court order or physician's letter certifying gender change. The letter or court order shall state the person's name, date of birth, date of gender reassignment operation and other identifying information. Once you are issued a Real ID with a star in the upper right corner, you should be eligible to conduct future transactions without visiting a center. Download the DDS mobile app, DDS 2 GO, for free to have a licensing office in your pocket! Important Notice: Beginning October 1, 2021, you will need a Real ID compliant card (with a star in the right corner) to fly within the U.S. or enter federal buildings or any nuclear power plant www.dhs.gov. If you would like to review and/or print a list of acceptable documents, please visit the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. 6  Join Team DDS If you... -Have a "How can I help?" attitude -Enjoy working in a team environment -Eager to learn and strong attention to detail DDS Offers... - Diverse Work Environment - Paid Holidays and Great Benefits -Career Development and Advancement Opportunities Scan QR Code To Apply At Team.Georgi  SECTION 2 OBTAINING A LICENSE, Please refer to page 16 for more information PERMIT OR related to the knowledge exam; *A 17-year-old will be exempt from holding their IDENTIFICATION CARD learners permit for one year and one day with The test fee is $10.00 and must be paid prior proof that they are enlisted in the military. They to testing. If any part of the test is failed, no will be issued a Class C license at issuance. This Section Covers refund will be issued. The permit fee must be paid prior to every testing attempt. Current Georgia Residents.................................... 8 Driver Education Requirements Class CP Instructional Permit................................. 8 Conditions of a Class C To obtain a Class D license at the age of 16 or 17 you Class D Provisional License.................................. 8 Instructional Permit (CP) must complete both a driver education course Class C License..................................................... 9 Once issued a Class C Instructional Permit approved by DDS and the Alcohol and Drug State ID Card.......................................................... 10 (CP), you may operate any Class C vehicle Awareness Program (ADAP). when accompanied by a person at least 21 Other License Types............................................ 10 years of age who is licensed to drive a Class Commercial Driver’s License.............................. 10 An approved driver education course consists of: C vehicle, who is fit and capable of exercising either 30 hours of classroom instruction OR Motorcycle Operator’s License........................... 10 control over the vehicle, and who is occupy- completion of an equivalent online virtual course; Licenses for Veterans of the U.S. Armed ing a seat beside the driver; AND Forces and their Spouses.................................... 10 Class C Instructional Permits (CP) are valid 6 hours of on-the-road experience with a certified National Guard License....................................... 10 for up to 2 years. instructor OR completion of the DDS Parent Teen New Georgia Residents....................................... 10 Driving Guide available Online or at any CSC. You Class D Provisional License must also have completed a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of other driving experience, including at For first-time issuance of a Class D Li- least 6 hours at night. A DDS provided affidavit must cense, you must meet all requirements be signed at the time of road testing to certify that this CURRENT to obtain a Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. See pages 10-11 for com- requirement has been met. GEORGIA plete requirements. NOTE: If the teen obtains the on-the-road component RESIDENTS Obtaining a Class D of driver’s education from a certified instructor, a separate document affirming that this requirement has Provisional License been met must be completed at the time of the road test. Class C Instructional Permit (CP) Upon reaching the age of 16, and after hav- If you have not completed the driver education ing held a valid instructional permit for one requirements, you cannot obtain a Class D license. For For first-time i ssuance o f a C lass C I n-year and one day* you may apply for a Class information on approved driver education courses, see structional Permit (CP), you must meet all D Provisional License. The following requirements to obtain a Secure DL/ID if information will help you prepare for your the DDS website, dds.georgia.gov. you have not already done so. See page visit to a DDS Customer Service Center: 9 for complete requirements. The Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP) is You will need to make a road test appoint- taught in most schools and is also available online via ment (see page 16); dds.georgia.gov. Obtaining a Class C Instructional Permit (CP) You must surrender your Class C Instruction- Upon reaching age 15, or anytime thereafter, al Permit (CP) or affirm on your application you may apply for a Class C Instructional Per- that you are unable to surrender the permit. mit (CP). The following information will help See pages 19-20 for details concerning lost you prepare for your visit to a DDS Customer licenses and permits; Service Center: Conditions of a Class D You will be required to present proof of Provisional License You will be required to present documents school enrollment; see page 30 for require- verifying your identity, U.S. citizenship or ments; lawful presence, and Georgia residency as A Class D license holder may not drive be- You must present proof of completion of the Al- tween the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. explained on page 6. cohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP). - NO EXCEPTIONS; You must know your Social Security Number This program is taught in most schools, and or provide proof of your ineligibility to obtain is also available online. For information about During the first six months following is- a Social Security Number. See the DDS website ADAP, you may visit dds.georgia.gov; suance, only immediate family members at dds.georgia.gov for more information. may ride in the vehicle. ‘Immediate family A parent, legal guardian or responsible adult member’ includes the driver’s parents and If you are under age 18, you will be required will have to sign the application, thereby giv- step-parents, grandparents, siblings and step- to present proof of school enrollment; see ing their consent for you to obtain a license. siblings, children, and any other person who page 26 for requirements; The individual who signs your application resides at the driver’s residence; may, for any reason, revoke your license until If you are under age 18, a parent, legal guard- During the second six months following is- you reach the age of 18; ian or responsible adult will have to sign the suance, only one passenger under 21 years application, thereby giving their consent for You must pass a road test designed to evalu- of age who is not a member of the driver’s you to obtain a permit. The individual who ate your ability to safely operate a motor ve- immediate family may ride in the vehicle; signs your application may, for any reason, re- hicle. See pages 16-17 for more information voke your permit until you reach the age of 18; related to the Road Test; After the first and second six-month periods, only three passengers under 21 years of age You will be required to pass a vision test. You must satisfy the driver education re- who are not members of the driver’s immedi- Your eyes will be tested by means of a me- quirements listed under Driver Education ate family may ride in the vehicle; chanical device; Requirements. (NOTE: Teens with parents active in the U.S. Military can use an out A Class D license holder must, for the 12 You will be required to pass a knowledge months preceding application for their Class of state driver's education certificate exam related to Road Signs and Road Rules. C license, be free from any convictions for provided that it is within 9 months of their major traffic violations that result in the man- 16th birthday.) datory suspension of a driver’s license. 8  SECTION 2: OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD Class C License NEED A PEACH PASS? For first-time issuance of a Class C Li- cense, you must meet all requirements to obtain a Real DL/ID if you have not already done so. See page 10 for require- Register for one today at ments. www.peachpass.com Obtaining a Class C License – Exchanging a Class D license A Class D license holder may apply for a Class C license upon reaching the age of 18. The To obtain a Class C license, you must surren- like to apply for a driver’s license in Georgia for applicant must have held a valid Class D license der your previously issued Class C Instructional the first time, you have two options: until the age of 18, or for one year and one day, Permit (CP) or affirm on your application that Immediately apply for a Class C Driver’s without having been convicted of any major you are unable to surrender the permit. You License. You must meet all documentation traffic violations in the 12 months preceding must also pass a road test designed to evaluate requirements listed on pages 10-11, and suc- his/her application. Upon surrender of the Class your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. cessfully complete the knowledge and road D license or affirmation on the application that See pages 1-16 for more information related to test examinations (see pages 16-17). You must the customer is unable to surrender the license, the road test. Upon surrender of the Class C also sign an affidavit affirming that you have the applicant will be issued a Class C license at Instructional Permit (CP) or affirmation on the completed 40 hours of supervised road driv- the cost of $32 for an 8 year license. No other application that you are unable to surrender the ing which includes 6 hours of night driving; documentation or testing is required for U.S. permit, you will be issued a Class C license at citizens. See pages 19-20 for details concerning the cost of $32 for a 8 year license. You must sign Apply for a Class C Instructional Permit lost licenses and permits. an affidavit verifying that you have completed (CP), which allows you to obtain practical 40 hours of supervised road driving which in- driving experience under the supervision Obtaining a Class C License cludes 6 hours of night driving. See pages 19-20 of a licensed driver. If you would like more – Exchanging a Class C Instructional for details concerning lost licenses and permits. information related to a Class C Instructional Permit (CP) Permit (CP), please see page 12. A Class C Instructional Permit (CP) holder Obtaining a Class C License – may apply for a Class C license only if he or she Applicant Is Not Currently Licensed has reached the age of 18. If you are at least 18 years of age and would There’s a time to check whether your kid’s in the right car seat. This isn’t it. Car crashes are a leading killer of children 1 to 13. Is your child in the right car seat? Don’t think you know. Know you know. safercar.gov/TheRightSeat 9 SECTION 2: OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD State ID Card For first-time issuance of a State ID Card, you must meet all requirements to obtain a Real ID DL/ID if you have not already done so. See page 10 for requirements. A State of Georgia ID Card may be obtained at any DDS Customer Service Center. The cost of this card varies depending on the type of card obtained. An 8-year ID card is $32; All previous ID cards must be surrendered; If you no longer have possession of your previous driver’s license/ID card/permit to surrender, you must provide a certified copy of your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), from the previous state. Upon submission of a referral from a DDS- approved non-profit agency, the applicant will be permitted to obtain an ID card at a cost of $5.00. A special ID card for persons with permanent disabilities is available for a term of eight years at a cost of $5.00. A card for persons with tem- porary disabilities is also available for a term of six (6) months at a cost of $5.00. This card serves Licenses for Veterans of as proof of the need for special transportation the U.S. Armed Forces Honorary License – NO FEE services, seating accommodations, and other and their Spouses The spouse of a disabled, honorably sepa- facilities for the handicapped. Verification from rated veteran who does not have a driver’s li- a licensed physician may be required to obtain a Veteran’s License cense, or the unmarried surviving spouse of a permanent Handicap ID, and is always required deceased honorably separated veteran, is enti- Important: Please read carefully. The tled to the same license available to the veteran. to obtain or extend a temporary Handicap ID. veteran must obtain the Certificate o f An applicant for this type of license must meet The fee for this card is waived for those who Eligibility (DS-516) from the State De- the same requirements as those required for a meet the qualifications listed on this page for a partment of Veterans Service to obtain a veteran’s license. For the unmarried surviving veteran’s driver’s license. Veterans license. spouse, the death certificate along with the DD- Customers can also have the handicap sym- Applicants must meet the following require- 214 must be submitted to the State Department bol placed on any other type of license, permit, ments for eligibility of a veteran’s license: of Veterans Service to obtain a Certificate o f or identification card. Customers have the op- tion to include certain medical information on All veterans who are GA citizens, actively Eligibility. the back of their card as well. This information is served, and released with any discharge also available at our website, dds.georgia.gov. other than dishonorable, are eligible for a A voter registration ID is also available at free Veterans License/ID Card. no cost for any individual who swears under Visit the nearest office of the State Depart- oath that the ID is needed in order to vote in National Guard License ment of Veterans Service with your an election in Georgia. copy of the Armed Forces separation papers All applicants for ID cards must provide (Form DD-214). The qualified veteran will be proof of identity, proof of U.S. Citizenship or A free, distinctive, license may be issued to issued a Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516), any member of the Georgia National Guard or lawful presence, proof of Social Security Num- signed by the veteran and the certifying active reserves in good standing who has had ber or ineligibility for a Social Security Num- official from the State Department of active duty. ber, and proof of Georgia residency. See pages Veterans Service; 10-11 for further information concerning these A Certificate of Eligibility(DS-318) form requirements. The original certificate (DS-516) may then be must be obtained from the local National presented by the veteran to any DDS Cus- Guard Commanding Officer and presented tomer Service Center along with any other to any DDS Customer Service Center. This Other License Types documentation needed to prove identity, law- license is renewable during the time of service in the National Guard or reserves ful presence, and residency for issuance of the until they are entitled to a Veteran’s License. Commercial Driver’s License license (see pages 10-11). The State The form DS-318 must be presented to the Detailed information concerning licensing Department of Veterans Service will DDS upon every renewal of a National requirements for Commercial Driver’s Li- denote eligibility on the DS-516; Guard license. censes can be found in the Commercial Driv- ers Manual as well as on the DDS website at Successfully pass a vision test for the initial issuance of a Class C veteran’s license. To dds.georgia.gov. obtain any other class of license, you must New Georgia Residents successfully complete examinations for the Motorcycle Operator’s License class of license desired. Detailed information concerning licensing General Information requirements for Motorcycle Operator’s Li- You must apply for a Georgia driver’s license censes can be found in the Motorcycle Opera- or permit within 30 days of becoming a Georgia tors Manual as well as on the DDS website at resident if you wish to drive upon the highways dds.georgia.gov. of this state. Please see page 4 for more informa- 10  SECTION 2: OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD tion about requirements to obtain a license or the District of Columbia (expired less than 2 vide a Motor Vehicle Report/Driving History permit and exemptions for certain individuals. years). If you are unable to surrender a valid (printed in English) dated within the last 30 driver’s license, you must present a certified days, from the country of license issuance; New Georgia Resident Without Motor Vehicle Report/Driving History from Most non-citizen customers with a valid out a Valid License or Permit the state of issuance, dated within 30 days, of country driver’s license, permit, or ID may Issued by Another State showing your status as valid. Non-citizens retain their out of country document upon Please see the appropriate chapter of this are not required to surrender their foreign issuance of a Georgia-equivalent document. manual for obtaining a license or permit for non-commercial license or permit; U.S. citizens will not be allowed to retain the first time in Georgia. Be at least 18 years of age, or 17 years of age if any licenses, permits, or identification cards Under 18 – see Teen Licensing Requirements surrendering a valid license equivalent to a issued to them by foreign countries; on pages 26; Georgia Class C license with no time, route, Successfully complete the knowledge, road, purpose or passenger restrictions; 18 or Older – see Obtaining a Class C license – and vision exams; Applicant Not Currently Licensed on page 26. You must know your full Social Security Present mandatory documents to prove iden- Number which will be verified with the Social tity, citizenship or lawful presence, Social Transferring from Another Security Administration. Security Number, and residency. See pages State or District of Columbia Provide proof of identity. For a complete list 10-11 for the complete list; of acceptable documents, see page 10; Under Age 18 with valid out If under the age of 18, additional requirements of state license or permit Provide proof of citizenship or lawful pres- will apply. Please see pages 30–32 for more If you hold a valid driver’s license or instruc- ence in the United States (see page 10). All details on teen licensing requirements; tional permit issued by any other state of the documents must be originals or certified Licenses, permits and IDs issued outside the United States or by the District of Columbia, you copies. Faxed copies will not be accepted; District of Columbia or any other state of the will normally be eligible to obtain a comparable United States are non-transferable. A customer Provide two documents to prove Georgia license or permit issued by Georgia. However, residency. For a complete list of acceptable holding any document issued outside of the 50 the state of issuance may have requirements documents, see pages 10-11. States or District of Columbia must complete for teenage drivers that differ from Georgia. the full process for issuance of a new document Pass a vision test. in Georgia, including all tests required for the 18 or Older with a valid out class being requested, if applicable. of state license or permit Transferring a License/Permit/ID Citizens of certain foreign countries may be Surrender a valid license issued by another From Another Country or U.S. Territory exempt from knowledge and skills testing. For state or territory of the United States or by a list, visit dds.georgia.gov. If you do not have the out of country license/ permit/ID in your possession, you must pro- DANGER ALL DMVs are not Alike!!! Beware of fake DMV websites that charge for training materials or informational material. Most customers arrive at these sites by doing a browser search for “Georgia DMV,” “Georgia License Renewal” or similar generic searches. Please read the pages of these sites carefully, because by law they are required to inform users that the site is not affiliated with any State or Government Entity. They are privately owned sites that will have.com or.org at the end of their website address (url). The official state of Georgia websites will have.gov as is the case with www.dds.georgia.gov. 11 SECTION 3 TESTING You may not speak to anyone during the test All road test vehicles must be covered by liabil- ity insurance (you must show a valid insurance INFORMATION other than the examiner administering the test. Any violation of these rules is consid- card or Motor Vehicle registration card that shows the VIN) and pass a safety inspection; ered misconduct. If misconduct occurs during This Section Covers the administration of the knowledge exam, the exam session will be counted as a failure. If the vehicle is not equipped with illumi- nated turn signals, you must be able to pass Knowledge Exam................................................. 12 The questions on the knowledge exam per- the road test using hand signals; Road Signs.......................................................... 12 tain to topics discussed in this manual and You may take the test in a rental vehicle. Road Rules.......................................................... 12 consist of the following components: Please be advised that many rental agree- Road Test................................................................ 12 ments do not allow vehicle use for driver Road Signs Making Road Test Reservations.......................... 12 training or testing. Additionally, you must A set of questions on the meaning of standard Road Test for Class C or D.................................. 12 meet the following conditions: highway signs will be given. This test is given in Road Test for Class M......................................... 13 » You must provide a copy of the rental English only. You will be asked to identify cer- Road Test for Class E and contract (the contract will be reviewed to tain signs, signals and markers. You must cor- determine if testing is allowed); F Non-Commercial.............................................. 13 rectly answer 15 out of 20 questions to pass. You » You must be listed as a driver on the rental Road Test for Class A, B, and C Commercial.......13 may take a practice test at dds.georgia.gov. contract; Results of Pass/Fail............................................. 13 » You must provide proof of valid insurance Road Rules for the vehicle. The road rules test consists of a set of ques- tions about driver responsibility, knowledge of The driving test will not be conducted if laws, and safe driving practices applicable to weather conditions or any other conditions Knowledge Exam the class of license for which you are applying. are determined to be unsafe for the driver or You must correctly answer 15 out of 20 ques- examiner. DDS will make every effort to ensure Knowledge exams are given on a walk-in tions to pass. You may take a practice test at that impacted customers are rescheduled as basis at every DDS Customer Service Center dds.georgia.gov. soon as possible. statewide. To ensure that an applicant has ad- For the driving test you will be expected to equate time to complete the knowledge exam, demonstrate your ability to do all of the fol- customers must begin taking the written test at Road Test lowing: least 30 minutes prior to closing. Please check Parallel Parking: Park midway between the hours of operation before you visit on our Making Road Test Reservations two standards so that your car is not more website at dds.georgia.gov. The Road Skills Test is administered by than 18 inches from the curb. The standard We offer special assistance for customers appointment only. Appointments allow us to parallel parking dimensions utilized in the with reading disabilities and hearing impair- maximize our resources and to serve all of our driver’s license test are 22 feet in length by ment. Please visit your local CSC to schedule an customers more efficiently. W hen a ll testing 10 feet in depth; appointment for an oral exam or to schedule an slots have not been reserved, an appointment interpreter for the hearing impaired. may be available for same day service. To make Straight Line Backing: Back your car for The road rules tests are available in some an appointment, please visit DDS Online Ser- a distance of approximately 50 feet at a slow non-English languages, but all drivers must vices at dds.georgia.gov. rate of speed (not more than 10 miles per show ability to read and understand simple hour) as straight and as smoothly as possible. English such as is used in highway traffic and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems You must turn your head and look behind the directional signs. Road signs and the actual Drivers may perform the skills test in vehicles vehicle while backing. No boundary lines driving test are conducted in English only. equipped with advanced driver assistance tech- should be encroached; nology. However, the applicant must demon- These basic rules must be followed while a Stop for Signs or Traffic Signals: Give strate their ability to operate the vehicle without knowledge exam is being given: the proper hand or brake signal; approach such technology. in the proper lane; stop before reaching a pe- You may not bring pens, pencils, paper, or destrian crosswalk and remain stopped until any other items into the testing area; Road Test For Class C or D all pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk All cell phones, text messaging devices, and DDS will only administer a Class C or D on the side of the roadway upon which you other types of wireless devices are prohibited road test in a four-wheel vehicle; are traveling; move through the intersection in the testing area; only when you may do so safely; You must provide the vehicle for the road test; Turn About: Turn your car in a narrow space All road test vehicles must have a valid reg- using a three-point turn; istration/license plate, or if equipped with a temporary dealership tag, the applicant must Use of Clutch: If your car has a manual provide the bill of sale for proof of purchase transmission, you must shift smoothly and within the last 30 days (7 days if the vehicle correctly; is purchased from a third party); Approaching Intersections and Corners: You must be in the proper lane and look in both directions; Yielding Right-of-Way: Always yield right- of-way to pedestrians, vehicle operators, and bicyclists who move into the intersection be- fore you by stopping and remaining stopped until they have cleared the intersection; Turning: Move into the proper lane and signal an adequate distance before the turn; 12  SECTION 3: TESTING INFORMATION Passing: Always check in front of and be- Road Test For Class E and Results of Pass/Fail hind your vehicle to make sure you can safely F Non-Commercial If you pass all the tests, you will be issued pass without interfering with other traffic; There is no driving test for Classes E & F Non-Commercial; however, you must present a temporary license/permit. Your Following: Do not follow other cars too permanent license/permit will be mailed an Application for Issuance of Non- closely. Follow at a safe distance from the Commercial E/F License (DS-36), establishing to you vehicle in front of you in order to maintain your ability to operate vehicles within the control of the vehicle in case of any emer- particular class, and pass a knowledge test for gency situation or abrupt stops or turns; If you fail any part of the knowledge or that particular class. You must also possess or be eligible to obtain a Class C Driver's License. road test, and it is your: Maintaining Good Posture: Keep both hands on the steering wheel. Do not rest your Class E & F licenses are available to volunteer firefighters at no charge. 1st Failure: You must wait until the elbow on the window and do not attempt to Customers who wish to take the non com- next day before retaking the portion you carry on a conversation with the examiner mercial Class E/F exam should study the because he/she will be busy giving instruc- have failed. Commercial Drivers Manual. The Commer-cial tions and recording your score. Drivers Manual can be located online at 2nd or Subsequent Failure: You must At the end of the Class C/D road test, the dds.georgia.gov or customers can obtain a hard wait 7 days before retaking the portion license examiner will gladly show you your copy at any DDS Customer Service Center. you have failed. score sheet and will provide you an opportunity to discuss the results if you wish to do so. You Road Test For Class A, B, must achieve a minimum score of 75% to pass. and C Commerc