In Georgia, drivers 64 years of age and older must pass a vision screening every time they renew their driver’s license. This is a key requirement that distinguishes senior license renewal from the process for younger drivers. The vision test can be completed in person at any Department of Driver Services (DDS) Customer Service Center, or seniors can submit a Vision Report Form (DDS-MR-274) online, provided it has been completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist within the last two years and includes specific vision measurements such as visual acuity and field of vision.
Seniors now have the option to renew their licenses online by uploading the required vision documentation to their DDS Online Services account. After submission, DDS will review the documents and notify applicants by email whether their renewal is approved, denied, or incomplete. If approved, seniors can print a temporary license and will receive the permanent card by mail within about 30 to 45 days. If the vision documentation is denied or incomplete, the renewal must be completed in person at a DDS office.
Georgia licenses are valid for eight years, and all drivers, regardless of age, must renew within that cycle. However, the vision test requirement applies at every renewal for those 64 and older46. There is no mandatory road test or cognitive test at a specific age unless there are concerns about a driver’s ability to drive safely, in which case DDS may require additional assessments. Family members or physicians can report concerns about a senior’s driving, which may prompt a review or further testing by DDS.
Georgia seniors age 64 and up must pass a vision test at every license renewal, can renew online or in person, and must provide recent vision documentation if renewing remotely. The process is designed to balance convenience with safety for older drivers.
Sources
[1] https://dds.georgia.gov/drivers-64-and-over
[2] https://dds.georgia.gov/georgia-licenseid/existing-licenseid/how-do-i-renew-license-or-id
[3] https://nmjfirm.com/news/new-federal-driving-rules-for-seniors-take-effect-july-2025-what-older-drivers-in-south-carolina-and-georgia-should-know/
[4] https://www.iihs.org/topics/older-drivers/license-renewal-laws-table
[5] https://ocgnews.com/georgias-senior-drivers-can-now-renew-drivers-license-online/
