Getting your license back after a Georgia DUI

Start with your own record

DDS says reinstatement requirements vary with the type of suspension, the conviction, and any prior offenses, and that the fastest way to see what applies to you is to sign in to DDS Online Services (or the DDS 2 GO app), where it shows your license status and step-by-step requirements. Allow time for the court to send the conviction to DDS before you check.

After a first DUI (21 and over)

DDS describes a first DUI within five years this way:

• the license is suspended for 12 months;
• at the end of 120 days, you can apply for reinstatement if you meet the conditions;
• you must present a certificate of completion from a DDS-approved DUI Alcohol or Drug Use Risk Reduction Program; and
• you must pay the reinstatement fee.

The Risk Reduction Program

DDS describes the program as a standardized screening assessment of alcohol and drug use plus a DDS-approved therapeutic education course about alcohol, drugs, and driving. The court sentence for a DUI conviction also requires it (see the penalties guide).

Only DDS-certified programs count. DDS warns that classes taken at uncertified schools will not be accepted for licensing, reinstatement, or court requirements, so check the certification on the DDS website first. Programs that serve Helen and ask to be listed appear under counseling in the directory.

The fee and how to pay

DDS lists the reinstatement fee for a DUI first offense, age 21 and over, as $200 by mail or $210 in person.

By mail. DDS says to include your full name, date of birth, and license number, any documents such as the Risk Reduction certificate, and payment in full; partial payments are not accepted. Checks, money orders, and cashier's checks are made payable to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, or you can include the DDS credit card authorization form. DDS gives a discount for the mail-in option.

In person. Bring the Official Notice of Suspension DDS sent you and your other documents. Customer service centers take cash and credit or debit cards, not checks or money orders. DDS notes that all centers are closed on Mondays and that Tuesday is the busiest day. The nearest center to Helen is on the local resources page.

Limited permits during the suspension

Some drivers can drive on a limited permit during part of a suspension. Whether you qualify depends on your age, license status, record, and whether you refused testing. DDS says a refusal makes you ineligible for a limited permit if you are convicted of a first DUI. The interlock permit guide explains the ignition interlock option.

Second and later offenses

DDS says DUI suspensions and revocations range from 120 days to five years depending on the prior record, and that convictions of Georgia residents in other states' courts can also lead to suspension. Requirements for repeat offenses are longer and can include an ignition interlock. Check your own requirements in Online Services, and ask a lawyer how a prior conviction affects you.

A reinstatement checklist

Before you apply, check that you have:

• your driving record, so you know the exact suspension and its dates;
• the Risk Reduction Program certificate, from a DDS-certified program;
• proof that any clinical evaluation and treatment the court ordered is complete, if the court or DDS requires it;
• the reinstatement fee for your suspension type, paid by a method DDS accepts; and
• any court paperwork DDS asks for, such as proof of the conviction date.

Keep copies of everything you send. If DDS sends a notice asking for more, answer it quickly.

Driving before you are reinstated

Driving on a suspended license is a separate offense in Georgia and can lead to a longer suspension. Until DDS confirms that your license is reinstated, or you hold a valid limited or interlock permit, do not drive.

If your license is from another state

If you hold a license from another state, the Georgia suspension applies to your privilege to drive in Georgia. Your home state may take its own action when it learns of a Georgia conviction. Ask both DDS and your home state's licensing agency what each needs before you can drive legally again, since their requirements are separate.

A note on these rules

Fees, waiting periods, and program rules are set by DDS and the legislature and can change. Confirm your own requirements with DDS before you pay or enroll.