How to Get Your Georgia Learner's Permit (DDS Guide)

To get a Instructional Permit (Class CP) in Georgia, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.

Georgia's DDS knowledge exam has separate road-rules and road-signs sections drawn from the Georgia Driver's Manual. Under Joshua's Law, teens complete driver education and supervised practice on the way to a Class D provisional license.

Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:

• Proof of identity, such as an original or certified U.S. birth certificate or an unexpired U.S. passport (proof of lawful status is required for non-citizens).
• Your full Social Security Number, entered on the required online License/ID/Permit form; if it cannot be verified, bring a document such as your Social Security card, W-2, or paycheck stub.
• Two proofs of Georgia residency from separate sources showing your current address (for example, a utility bill, mortgage statement, or bank statement); P.O. boxes are not accepted.
• Parental consent: applicants under 18 must bring a parent, guardian, responsible adult, or authorized driving instructor to sign the application in person.
• Proof of school enrollment or completion: applicants under 18 must show a notarized Certificate of School Enrollment (DS-1), a recent transcript, a progress report, or a school ID; those not in school need a high school diploma, GED/HSE, or equivalent.
• Proof of completing the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP), available through most schools or online.

In Georgia, the knowledge test is taken in person. The knowledge exam is taken in person at a DDS Customer Service Center and has two parts, a 20-question Road Rules test and a 20-question Road Signs test, each requiring at least 15 correct answers (75%) to pass.

The DDS charges $10.00 for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the DDS before you visit.

Georgia's Graduated Driver Licensing system under Joshua's Law requires teens to hold the Class CP instructional permit for at least 12 months and one day before advancing to a Class D provisional license. Applicants 16 or 17 must also complete an approved 30-hour driver education course plus supervised driving hours to obtain a Class D license.