Online
• There are several driver’s license transactions — including an address change and replacement for a lost or stolen license or ID — that can be done online at www.dds.ga.gov. Residents are asked to check those services before visiting the Georgia Department of Driver Services.
• Also, Homeland Security requirements are mandatory for everyone that must come in person. Customers can create their own personal document checklist online to ensure they bring all the necessary documentation.
In anticipation of a busy stretch after the holiday, the Georgia Department of Driver Services is encouraging residents to plan ahead before visiting a center.
Due to the timing of this year’s holidays, centers statewide were closed for several consecutive days before reopening today.
That coupled with an increase in replacement driver’s licenses and identification cards, as well as new residents moving into the state pose challenges for staff.
“History has proven that when DDS centers are closed for a holiday, demand grows and our wait times increase,” said Commissioner Rob Mikell in statement.
The local driver services center is on Pilgrim Mill Road, near Ga. 400 at Exit 16 in Cumming.
According to officials, the first business day following a closed day is typically busy and long lines are possible.
As a result, they encouraged residents to not come today unless they have time to wait.
Officials also noted that a lost or stolen license or ID can be replaced online at www.dds.ga.gov, provided it’s not up for renewal within 150 days.
State law does, however, require those who are a victim of theft or fraud to have their driver’s license numbers changed. A copy of the police report is required when doing so.
To ease the congestion, officials encouraged those whose licenses are about to expire to not wait until the last minute. A license or ID card can be renewed 150 days before expiration.