Before you apply for a Georgia driver's license, your arrival in the US has to be confirmed in multiple government databases. So, before you start the application process, you should wait until:

• 10 business days have passed since you arrived in the US;
• Your record has been registered in SEVIS, if you're in F or J status; 
• Students only: You have received confirmation that your check-in through ISSS Link has been approved;
• Scholars only: 5 business days have passed since you attended international scholar orientation.

To apply for a driver's license, you will need either a Social Security Number (SSN) or a letter of ineligibility for a social security number (also called an SSN denial letter or Form SSAL 676). 

In general, only noncitizens who have permission to work in the US can apply for a social security number. 

If you are eligible for a social security number, you'll need to apply for it and wait to receive your social security card in the mail before you visit the Department of Driver Services (DDS).

If you are not eligible for a social security number, you still have to visit a Social Security Administration office in order to get a letter of ineligibility/denial letter (SSAL 676) and then can go to a DDS office to apply for your driver's license.

Scheduling an appointment in advance is not required. However, SSA still strongly encourage individuals to schedule appointments. 

Application Process:

SSA offices close to Emory's campus:

• DECATUR OFFICE: 3554 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 30032
• DOWNTOWN ATLANTA OFFICE:  401 W. Peachtree Street NW, Suite 2860, Fl. 28th, Atlanta, GA 30308
• NORCROSS OFFICE: 4365 Shackleford Road, Norcross, GA 30093

Find another SSA office >>

Learn more about social security numbers >>

1. Bring the following documents to a DDS office (please note that there is a DDS office in South Dekalb Mall, which is accessible via the free Emory Shuttle. View the schedule for the South Dekalb Mall Park and Ride >>). 

   1. Immigration document (I-20, DS-2019, I-797, etc.)

   2. Valid passport and visa

   3. I-94

   4. Social security card or Form SSAL 676

   5. Home-country license, if you have one

   6. Proof of residence. If you live off campus, bring a copy of your apartment lease and a secondary document, like a utility bill, that shows your name and local address. If you live on campus, go to the Office of Residence Life & Housing in Raoul Hall to get a letter from Emory confirming your local address.

      For more information and a helpful, printable document checklist for non-US citizens, visit the Georgia DDS website.
2. At the DDS office, you will take a vision test, a written test about US traffic laws (including road signs), and a driving test. Testing info >>
3. Typically, you will get a temporary driver's license at the DDS office. Then they will mail you your permanent license within 14-30 days.

If you buy a car in Georgia, you have to register it with your county. To do this, you'll need a valid Georgia driver's license or a state identification card.

Vehicle registration is handled by the tax commissioner's office in each county.

Tax commissioner's offices

Your Georgia driver's license will expire on the end date listed on your immigration document (I-20, DS-2019). So if you extend your stay in the US or apply for a change of status with a new end date, you'll need to renew your license.

If your driver's license is expiring but you have a pending application to extend your stay in the US, you might be able to request a 120-day extension of your driver's license. You must apply within 30 days of your license expiration date. Visit this page for more information (scroll to bottom of page) >>

If you have questions about the application process or are experiencing extensive delays, please contact your ISSS advisor. We are advocating for change at all levels of the process, and we might be able to help with your individual case.