Getting Your Georgia Learner’s Permit: A Complete Guide

If you’re a new driver in Georgia, you’ll need to obtain a learner’s permit before you can start practicing on the road. However, it can be a bit of a confusing process if you don’t know what you’re doing.

In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know to get a learner’s permit in Georgia.

Georgia Learner’s Permit Requirements

Before applying for a permit, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be at least 15 years old
• Have a parent or guardian’s consent (if under 18)
• Be enrolled in school (if under 18)
• Pass a vision exam and a knowledge exam
• Provide the required documentation (identity, residency, citizenship, and Social Security Number)
• Pay the applicable permit fee

How to Get a Georgia Learner’s Permit

#1 – Schedule an Appointment

Before visiting the Georgia Department of Driver Services, you should first schedule an appointment on their website, and you’ll also be prompted to fill out the required form. Walk-ins are accepted at DDS Customer Service Centers, but making an appointment can help expedite the process.

#2 – Gather Required Documents

You’ll need to provide the following documentation upon arrival at the DDS to apply for your Georgia learner’s permit:

• Proof of identity (e.g., a certified U.S. birth certificate, valid passport, or immigration documents)
• Proof of Georgia residency (e.g., bank statement, utility bill, or school enrollment records)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful status
• Full Social Security Number (to be entered on the required online License/ID/Permit Form)
• Certificate of School Enrollment (DS-1 Form) signed by a school official

If you’re homeschooled, you must provide:

• Certificate of School Enrollment (signed and dated within six months)
• A “Declaration of Intent To Utilize a Home Study Program” submitted with the Georgia Department of Education

If you’re under 18 and not in school, you must provide ONE of the following:

• A high school diploma
• GED
• Special diploma
• Certification of high school completion
• Proof of enrollment in GED program or post-secondary school

#3 – Visit the Georgia DDS

On your scheduled appointment date and time, you will need to visit the Georgia DDS about 15-30 minutes early. If you are under the age of 18, you will need to bring a parent, legal guardian, or driving training instructor with you to sign off on certain paperwork. This adult will also need to provide paperwork to prove your relationship with them.

#4 – Pass the Vision Exam

A vision exam will be assessed at this time. Your eyes will be tested by a mechanical device. To pass the exam, you’ll need to exhibit 20/60 vision in one eye, as well as at least a 140-degree field of vision.

If you happen to fail the screening, you will need to have a Vision Report form completed by a licensed practitioner.

#5 – Pass the Knowledge Exam

The knowledge exam is one of the most important parts of getting your learner’s permit in Georgia. The exam consists of 40 questions. Half of the exam consists of identifying highway signs, while the other half covers traffic laws. You must answer at least 15 questions from both sections in order to pass.

Prepare for your GA permit test with our practice tests and other resources. Zutobi offers up-to-date exams, a summarized easy-to-read handbook, video lessons with experienced instructors, and more. Prepare with with the best prep resource so you can feel confident on test day.

#6 – Have Your Photo Taken

A standard ID photo will be taken after the exam. This picture will appear on your physical Georgia learner’s permit when it arrives.

#7 – Pay the Permit Application Fee

After all these tasks are complete, you’ll be prompted to pay a $10 permit fee. You’ll be allowed to pay this with a credit card, debit card, or cash. The Georgia DDS does not accept cash or checks.

Georgia Driver’s Permit Restrictions

Once you obtain your learner’s permit, you’ll be legally allowed to operate a motor vehicle in Georgia. However, you’ll be placed under restrictions until you receive your adult driver’s license.

• You must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old, sitting next to you in the front seat.
• The licensed driver must be fit and capable of exercising control over the vehicle.
• You cannot drive alone under any circumstances.

Once you have held your permit for at least one year and one day without violations, you may be eligible to apply for a Georgia Class D (intermediate) driver’s license.

That’s It!

That’s all there is to it! Be sure to reference this guide early and often on your journey to obtaining your Georgia learner’s permit.