In Georgia, drivers aged 64 and older face specific requirements when renewing their driver’s licenses, primarily focused on vision testing, with options for both in-person and online renewal.
Key Requirements for Seniors (Age 64 and Older)
- Vision Exam Requirement:
All drivers 64 and older must take and pass a vision exam before renewing their license. This is mandated by Georgia law (O.C.G.A. § 40-5-33(4)(c)(1)) to ensure that older drivers meet the necessary visual standards for safe driving. - Vision Exam Submission:
Seniors can either take the vision exam at a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Center or have it completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. The vision report or exam must be dated within the last two years and include specific details such as Visual Acuity Degrees, Horizontal Perception Degrees, or Monocular Field of Vision.
Renewal Options
Online Renewal
- Seniors can renew their licenses online by logging into their DDS Online Services account.
- They must upload a completed Vision Report Form (DDS-MR-274) or a vision exam from a licensed eye doctor.
- After submission, DDS reviews the vision documents and sends an email with approval, denial, or requests for more information.
- If approved, seniors can complete the renewal online, print a temporary license, and receive the permanent license by mail within about 30 to 45 days.
In-Person Renewal
- Seniors may visit any DDS Customer Service Center to renew their license and take the required vision exam on-site.
- They need to complete the required online form before visiting.
Mail or Fax Renewal
- Seniors who cannot visit in person can submit their vision report, proof of Georgia residency (two forms), and payment ($32 license fee) by mail or fax.
- Payment can be made by credit card (via fax), money order, cashier’s check, or personal check.
Additional Notes
- Licenses can be renewed up to 150 days before expiration.
- The permanent license is mailed after renewal, with a temporary paper license available immediately online or by mail.
- These provisions were enhanced during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow safer, remote renewals for seniors.
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Group | 64 years and older |
| Vision Exam | Required every renewal; completed by DDS or licensed eye doctor |
| Renewal Methods | Online (with vision documents upload), In-person (with vision test), Mail/Fax |
| Vision Report Validity | Must be dated within last 2 years |
| Renewal Fee | $32 |
| License Renewal Window | Up to 150 days before expiration |
| Temporary License | Available immediately online or by mail after renewal |
| Permanent License Delivery | Mailed within 30-45 days |
These measures ensure that senior drivers in Georgia maintain adequate vision for safe driving while offering convenient renewal options, including online renewal without the need to visit DDS offices in person.
Sources:
- https://dds.georgia.gov/drivers-64-and-over
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/georgia-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html
- https://dds.georgia.gov/georgia-licenseid/existing-licenseid/how-do-i-renew-license-or-id
- https://ocgnews.com/georgias-senior-drivers-can-now-renew-drivers-license-online/
