In Georgia, drivers age 64 and older are subject to specific requirements when renewing their driver’s licenses.
Vision Screening Requirement
Mandatory Vision Exam: All drivers 64 and older must pass a vision screening at every renewal period.
How to Satisfy the Vision Requirement:
- In-person: Take the vision test at any Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Center.
- Online: Submit a completed Vision Report Form (DDS-MR-274) or a vision exam conducted by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist, dated within the last two years, through your DDS Online Services account.
- The vision report must include visual acuity, horizontal perception, or monocular field of vision.
- Minimum Vision Standard: At least 20/60 in one eye (with or without corrective lenses) and a field of vision of at least 140 degrees.
Renewal Methods for Seniors
Online Renewal:
- Seniors can now renew their licenses online, provided they have submitted an approved vision report.
- After uploading the vision report and receiving approval by email, you can complete the renewal process online and print a temporary license; the permanent license arrives by mail within about 30-45 days.
In-Person Renewal:
- Complete the required form and take the vision test at a DDS center.
- Bring your current license and be prepared for a new photo and payment of the renewal fee.
Mail-in Renewal:
- Available under specific circumstances (e.g., military, out-of-state employment, or disability).
- You must include the required forms and the renewal fee.
Renewal Frequency and Fees
- Renewal Interval: Georgia driver’s licenses are valid for up to 8 years.
- Renewal Fee: Typically $32 for an 8-year renewal.
- Early Renewal: You may renew up to 150 days before your license expires.
- Grace Period: There is a 2-year grace period after expiration to renew without retaking tests; after that, you must retake written, road, and vision exams.
Additional Notes
- REAL ID Requirement: Your license must be a REAL ID (gold or black star in the upper right corner) to renew online.
- Temporary License: After renewal, you can print a temporary paper license while waiting for the permanent card.
- Online Account: You must create or log in to your DDS Online Services account to renew online.
Summary Table: Senior License Renewal in Georgia
| Requirement/Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Vision Exam | Mandatory every renewal (in-person or upload vision report) |
| Online Renewal | Allowed with approved vision report |
| In-Person Renewal | Always available (vision test on site) |
| Mail-in Renewal | Limited to special cases (military, out-of-state, disability) |
| Renewal Interval | Every 8 years |
| Early Renewal | Up to 150 days before expiration |
| Grace Period | 2 years after expiration |
| Minimum Vision Standard | 20/60 in one eye, 140° field of vision |
| Fee | $32 for 8 years |
| Temporary License | Available for printing after online/in-person renewal |
Senior drivers in Georgia (age 64+) must pass a vision exam at every renewal, but now enjoy the convenience of online renewal by submitting a recent vision report.
In-person and mail-in options remain available, and licenses are valid for up to 8 years. Always ensure your vision documentation is up-to-date and your license is a REAL ID for online renewal eligibility.
Sources:
- https://dds.georgia.gov/drivers-64-and-over
- https://newschannel9.com/news/local/dds-georgia-senior-drivers-can-now-renew-drivers-licenses-online
- https://www.idrivesafely.com/dmv/georgia/drivers-license/renewal/
- https://zutobi.com/us/ga-car/driver-guides/georgia-drivers-license-renewal
- https://www.nolo.com/legal-encyclopedia/georgia-driving-laws-seniors-older-drivers.html