GA Department of Driver Services (DDS) Commissioner Rob Mikell announced today a new customer service initiative to save customers time by encouraging more online driver’s license transactions.
Beginning July 1, 2014, as a result of the enactment by the Georgia General Assembly of Senate Bill 298, drivers will now be able to use their DDS Online Services receipt in accordance with O.C.G.A. § 40-5-29, as proof of valid driving privileges until their permanent license or permit arrives in the mail.
“This new online service is a win not only for those who go online, but also for citizens who will experience shorter wait times at DDS centers,” said Gov. Nathan Deal. “Providing a temporary receipt as proof of driver eligibility is a practical solution to make government operations more accessible and convenient for Georgians.”
Commissioner Mikell said, “I encourage all our customers to consider going online for their next interaction with DDS. It is a fast and secure process, and, in addition to saving valuable time, most online issuance services qualify for a five dollar discount.”
Process
Georgia drivers must successfully complete an online driver’s license or permit issuance transaction (renewal, update, replacement, or reinstatement) via www.dds.ga.gov.
The driver’s license status is automatically updated on the DDS database and the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC). When the online transaction is complete, a DDS receipt will be available for printing by the customer. This receipt may be presented to law enforcement personnel for a period of forty-five (45) days to meet the requirement of having a driver’s license in the driver’s immediate possession while operating a motor vehicle pursuant to O.C.G.A. 40-5-29. Law enforcement will confirm the driver’s status with DDS or GCIC as is the practice today. The customer is instructed to carry this receipt with them until their license arrives by mail in approximately two weeks.
Benefits
The printed receipt contains the driver’s pertinent information in an easy to read format. Law enforcement may see a decrease in writing citations for O.C.G.A. 40-5-29 and reduce administrative burden for their agencies and the court system. Drivers will have more confidence in DDS Online Services because they may legally drive on the receipt until their updated license or permit arrives. Wait times at all DDS customer service centers should improve due to the increase in Online Services.
For complete driver education and issuance information, please visit www.dds.ga.gov.
