Georgia driver license and state ID — guide for immigrants

Georgia requires lawful status for a driver license or ID card, and it has no program for undocumented residents. But lawfully present non-citizens — green-card holders, students who establish Georgia residency, people working temporarily in Georgia, and their dependents — can get a “LIMITED-TERM” license or ID. Here is exactly who qualifies, what to bring, and what it costs.

Quick answer

  • Undocumented DL access: NO — lawful status required
  • Lawfully present non-citizens: YES — issued a “LIMITED-TERM” license or ID
  • Validity: your approved length of stay, up to a maximum of 5 years
  • Driver license fee: $32 (8-year) · ID card fee: $32 (8-year)
  • Agency: Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS)
  • Website: dds.georgia.gov · Phone: (678) 413-8400

Which non-citizens can get a Georgia license or ID

Georgia law states that “the driver must be a United States citizen or have lawful status in the United States.” The DDS prints “LIMITED-TERM” on the license or ID of a non-citizen who proves lawful presence, including lawful permanent residents, students studying from abroad who establish Georgia residency, individuals temporarily working in Georgia, and their dependents. A non-citizen who establishes residency in Georgia must obtain a Georgia license within 30 days.

How long the credential lasts

A LIMITED-TERM license or ID is valid for your approved length of stay, up to a maximum of five years. It grants the same privileges as a regular Georgia card and should be accepted for banking, car rental, and shopping. The DDS notes that “an expired LIMITED-TERM card does not mean the person is in the country illegally.” If you have asked to extend your stay, the DDS offers a one-time 120-day extension when you present an original I-797C Notice of Action with your expired immigration documents.

Documents you need

  • Valid immigration documents that prove your identity and lawful status, presented in person at a Customer Service Center each time you apply. All documents must be in English. Refugees may present Form DS-20 in place of the standard proof of residency.
  • A Social Security number or a Certification of Social Security Denial Status. If you are not eligible for an SSN, complete the Certification of Social Security Denial Status form (DDS-351), available at the Customer Service Centers.
  • Proof of your Georgia residential address.

What is REAL ID?

A REAL ID-compliant Georgia license or ID (gold star) can be used to board domestic flights (enforced since May 7, 2025) and enter federal facilities. Georgia issues REAL ID credentials when you provide the required identity, lawful-status, Social Security, and residency documents.

If you are undocumented or cannot prove lawful status

Georgia has no driver-privilege card for undocumented residents. Practical alternatives:

  • Use your foreign passport as primary ID for banking, employment (with an EAD), and federal flights.
  • Get a matrícula consular from your home-country consulate (see Consulates in Georgia).
  • Use an International Driving Permit (IDP) obtained in your home country before travel — valid short-term for visitors.
  • Open an ITIN-friendly bank account to bank without an SSN.
  • Consider an AB60-equivalent state if you must drive regularly (for example California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, or Washington).

Last verified: 2026-06-28. Sources: Georgia DDS — Information for Non-US Citizens, Limited Term DL/IDs, and Fees and Terms.

General procedural information. DDS policies, fees, and document requirements change frequently — verify with the Georgia Department of Driver Services before visiting. Not legal or immigration advice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.