What to Bring to the Georgia DMV for Your Permit Test
Don't get sent home. Here's the complete checklist — documents, fees, forms, and what to leave at home.
Before You Go
- →Schedule an appointment online to skip the long lines
- →Fill out the application form online beforehand if possible
- →Arrive at least 15 minutes early to check in
- →Study the Georgia Driver's Manual thoroughly before going
- →Make sure your parent/guardian knows exactly what time you are going
- →Double-check that you have all original documents (no photocopies)
- →Get a good night's sleep so you're sharp for the written test
Required Documents
Proof of Identity (Primary Document)
- ✓U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- ✓Certified U.S. Birth Certificate
- ✓Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
- ✓Consular Report of Birth Abroad
- ✓Certificate of Naturalization or Citizenship
You must bring the original document; photocopies or digital photos on your phone will not be accepted. If your name has changed, bring the marriage certificate or court order linking the names.
Proof of Social Security Number
- ✓Social Security Card
- ✓W-2 Form with full SSN
- ✓Paystub with full SSN
- ✓SSA-1099 Form
- ✓Non-SSA-1099 Form
Georgia requires proof of your SSN. If you don't have a card, bring a W-2 or paystub that clearly shows your full number. If you are not eligible for an SSN, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating ineligibility.
Proof of Georgia Residency
Bring 2 of these:
- ✓Utility bill (electric, water, gas) in parent's name
- ✓Bank statement
- ✓School report card or transcript
- ✓Parent's lease or mortgage statement
- ✓Georgia vehicle registration or title
Georgia requires two separate documents to prove residency if you are applying for a REAL ID. If you are not getting a REAL ID, one document may suffice, but bringing two is safer to avoid delays.
Parental / Guardian Consent (applicants under 18)
- ✓Parent or legal guardian must sign the application in front of the DDS examiner
- ✓Parent must provide their own proof of identity and residency
- ✓If parents are divorced, the custodial parent usually signs unless court orders say otherwise
- ✓Legal guardians must bring court documents proving guardianship
- ✓Foster parents must bring specific agency documentation
The parent or guardian MUST appear in person with you. They cannot sign the form at home and bring it back; they have to sign it right there at the counter with you.
Fees & Payment
$10
This $10 fee covers the learner's permit application and the written exam. If you fail the written test, you may have to pay a small re-test fee depending on the office, so study hard the first time!
Accepted payment:
Forms
DDS Application for Instruction Permit (Form DDS-1)
Available at: Available at the DDS office or downloadable from the Georgia DDS website
Do not sign this form until you are standing in front of the DDS examiner. If you sign it early, they will make you fill out a new one.
What NOT to Bring
- ✗Your cell phone (you'll need to put it away during the test)
- ✗Large backpacks or bags (storage is limited)
- ✗Friends or siblings waiting in the lobby (keep the group small)
- ✗Food or drinks (no eating inside the testing area)
- ✗Your own pen (they provide them, but you can bring one if you prefer)
- ✗Pets (unless it's a service animal)
- ✗Expensive jewelry or watches (keep it simple)
At the Office
- →The written test is computer-based and multiple choice
- →You must pass with a score of 75% or higher to get your permit
- →If you fail, you can usually retake it the same day or next day for a fee
- →Once you pass, you'll get an interim permit paper immediately
- →Your actual plastic card will arrive in the mail within 10-15 business days
Official Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) info: dds.georgia.gov
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