How to Get Your Driver's License in Georgia

Last verified: 2026-03

Here is how to get your driver's license in Georgia. Georgia uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.

GDL Stages in Georgia

1

Learner's Permit

Age 15+ 12 months minimum

Requirements

  • Pass written knowledge test
  • Pass vision screening
  • Parental consent if under 18

Restrictions

  • Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older in the front passenger seat
2

Intermediate License (Class D)

Age 16+ 24 months minimum

Requirements

  • Hold learner's permit for at least 12 months
  • Complete 40 hours of supervised driving including 6 at night
  • Pass road skills test

Restrictions

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. for first 6 months
  • No more than 1 passenger under 21 for first 6 months; up to 3 after 6 months
3

Full Unrestricted License (Class C)

Age 18+

Requirements

  • Turn 18 with no major violations

Restricted License Rules

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. during the first 6 months of the Class D license.
  • For the first 6 months, only 1 passenger under 21 who is not a family member. After 6 months, up to 3 passengers under 21 are permitted.

How restrictions lift: Passenger limits ease after the first 6 months. All GDL restrictions are removed at age 18.

Road Test Overview

What Is Tested

  • Vehicle control
  • Turning and lane changes
  • Parking
  • Obeying traffic signals and signs
  • Speed management
  • Yielding right of way

Adult Licensing Pathway

If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older may apply for a Class C license without going through the GDL program.

Georgia-Specific Information

Georgia requires a full 12 months on a learner's permit before a teen can take the road test, one of the longest permit holding periods in the Southeast. The state also uses a phased passenger system similar to Colorado's approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Georgia.

Georgia uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate License (Class D), Full Unrestricted License (Class C).

  • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. during the first 6 months of the Class D license.
  • For the first 6 months, only 1 passenger under 21 who is not a family member. After 6 months, up to 3 passengers under 21 are permitted.

Adults age 18 and older in Georgia can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older may apply for a Class C license without going through the GDL program.

Need your permit first?

Start with the learner's permit before your full license.

Georgia learner's permit guide

Check drivers ed requirements

Find out if drivers ed is required in Georgia.

Georgia drivers ed requirements

Prefer to learn online?

Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.

View Online Courses

This information is based on Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website for the most current information.