How to Convert a Foreign
Driver's License in Georgia — 2026
Complete process, fees, document checklist, and reciprocity rules for new Georgia residents converting a foreign driver's license.
Verify before relying on this
Georgia's reciprocity arrangements with foreign countries change periodically. Always verify current requirements at the Georgia DMV before your appointment — see official source link below.
Quick summary
⭐Countries with Georgia reciprocity
Georgia does not maintain a public list of countries with full reciprocity. Most foreign-license holders should expect to take at least the written knowledge test. The road test may be required at the DMV examiner's discretion. Contact the Georgia DMV directly to ask about your specific country's license-recognition status.
📋Step-by-step conversion process
Make a GA DDS appointment
Georgia licenses are issued by the Department of Driver Services (DDS), not the DMV. Schedule at dds.georgia.gov. Atlanta-metro DDS centers have the longest waits.
Submit documents and pay the fee
Bring your foreign license, passport with US visa, proof of SSN, two GA residency proofs, and proof of legal US presence. Pay the $32 (8-year) or $25 (5-year) license fee.
Pass the knowledge test
The GA knowledge test covers road signs (20 questions, need 15 correct) and road rules (20 questions, need 15 correct). The test is offered in 13 languages.
Pass the vision screening
Standard vision requirement: 20/60 with or without correction in each eye for an unrestricted license.
Take the road test if required
Georgia may require the road test for foreign-license holders. The test is approximately 20 minutes and includes basic maneuvers.
Receive your Georgia license
A temporary license is issued; the permanent Georgia Class C license is mailed within 30 days.
📄Documents you'll need
Georgia Foreign License Conversion Checklist
- Original valid foreign driver's license
- Proof of identity (passport with valid US visa)
- Proof of Social Security Number (or affidavit)
- Two proofs of Georgia residency
- Proof of legal US presence
- ⚠️ Certified English translation of foreign license if not in English
- Application fee
💰Fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Class C 8-year license | $32.00 |
| Class C 5-year license | $25.00 |
📝 Notes & gotchas
Georgia's knowledge test is unusual in that it is split into two sections (signs and rules) and you must pass both. The DDS test is offered in 13 languages, more than most states.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, non-resident tourists can drive in Georgia with a valid foreign license. Once you become a Georgia resident, you have 30 days to obtain a Georgia driver's license.
📌 Official source
Georgia DDS — License Services📘Also see: Complete Georgia Driving Guide
For the full Georgia driver license guide — including teen permits, road test prep, REAL ID, and license fees for first-time drivers — see the main Georgia guide.
View Georgia Driver License Guide