How long can you drive with an expired license in Georgia?

In Georgia, it is illegal to drive with an expired driver's license from the moment it expires. There is no grace period that allows you to legally operate a vehicle with an expired license. Driving with an expired license can result in a citation and other legal penalties.

Understanding the Grace Period for License Renewal

While you cannot legally drive with an expired license, Georgia law does provide a grace period related to the renewal process of your driver's license.

• 2-Year Renewal Grace Period: If your Georgia driver's license has expired, you are typically allowed a two-year grace period to renew it without being required to retake all the necessary tests. This means that within two years of your license expiring, you can usually renew it without having to pass the road signs, road rules, or behind-the-wheel tests again.
• Expiration Beyond Two Years: If your driver's license has been expired for two years or more, you will be required to pass a series of tests to obtain a new license. These typically include:
  • Road signs test
  • Road rules test
  • Behind-the-wheel (driving) test
  • Eye test

It is crucial to understand that this "grace period" exclusively applies to the renewal procedure and the requirements for obtaining a new license, not to the legality of driving with an expired credential.

Consequences of Driving with an Expired License

Driving with an expired license in Georgia is considered a misdemeanor offense. The penalties can include:

• Fines
• Court appearance
• Points added to your driving record
• Potential vehicle impoundment

Law enforcement officers can issue a citation the moment your license is expired, regardless of how recently it passed its expiration date.

When to Renew Your Georgia License

To avoid legal issues and ensure you remain a valid driver, it is always recommended to renew your Georgia driver's license before its expiration date. The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) typically allows renewal up to 150 days (approximately five months) prior to the expiration date.

For official information on renewing your driver's license and other related services, visit the Georgia Department of Driver Services website.