How to Get a Driver's License in Georgia [2025]

How Does It Work?

Are you a Georgia driver or would like to become one? Georgia has a straightforward system of driver qualification. There are different requirements depending on your age. This is a complete step-by-step guide that will lead you through all the stages of getting your Georgia driver’s license. Pro tip: If you're planning a road trip through Georgia's picturesque landscapes and might be driving a manual transmission vehicle, make sure you're equipped with the right skills. Learn the essentials with our Stick Shift guide.

Get an instructional permit

Allows you to practice driving under supervision.

Get a provisional license

Allows you to drive unsupervised with restrictions.

Get a Full (Adult) License

Allows you to drive with no restrictions.

Pro tip: Touring Georgia's diverse landscapes, from urban centers to rural areas, calls for reliable driving skills. Dive into our comprehensive guides on maneuvering stick shifts and precise parallel parking. Become proficient in reversing into parking slots and carrying out three-point turns. Check that your mirrors are adjusted optimally for safe driving. Our Online Driving Simulator can aid in honing your skills, and for international drivers, it's important to understand Georgia's international driver's license regulations.

Types of Driver's Licenses in Georgia

For each license type there's a corresponding type of instruction permit

Class C/D (Non-Commercial)

Class C driver license is the basic driver license for automobile drivers. It allows you to operate a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) less than 26,000 pounds, tow a vehicle with a GVWR less than 10,000 pounds, use vehicles for recreational, camping, or travel purposes and to drive an autocycle (three-wheeled motor vehicle with a steering wheel). Valid for 8 years. Class D driver’s license is a provisional license for teens that is upgraded to class C at the age of 18. Read the GA Drivers Manual or take a free GA DDS practice test.

Class A/B/C (Commercial)

Class A license allows you to operate any combination vehicle with a GVWR greater than 26,000 pounds, provided that the GVWR of the towed vehicle is in excess of 10,000 pounds. Class B allows you to operate any single vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 or more pounds. Class C (commercial) is for operating vehicles carrying hazardous materials and with a GVWR less than 26,001 pounds, transporting 16 or more persons (including the driver). Read the GA Commercial Drivers Manual or take a free GA CDL knowledge test.

Class M

It allows you to operate a motorcycle on Georgia's public roadways. Alternatively, you may get a motorcycle endorsement, which is a qualification that is added to your existing commercial or noncommercial driver license to allow you to operate motorcycles also. Read the GA Motorcycle Operations Manual or take a free GA DDS motorcycle practice test.

How to Apply for Your Non-Commercial Driver’s License

To get a driver’s license you must pass a vision test, a knowledge exam and road test. You might also have to complete an ADAP class. This is your complete plan of action depending on your age:

I'm over 15 and under 18 (First Timer)

Apply for a Class CP instructional permit

I'm over 16 and under 18 (Instructional Permit holder)

Apply for a Class D provisional (teen) license

I'm 18+ (First timer, Permit or License holder)

Apply for a Class C full (adult) driver license