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The DDS-23S form is a crucial document for Georgia residents seeking to renew their driver's license, permit, or ID card when in-person visits to the Department of Driver Services (DDS) are not feasible. This form serves several specific groups: military personnel stationed out of state, students attending schools outside Georgia, temporarily employed individuals away from their home state, and those who are physically unable to visit a DDS Customer Service Center. To properly process the renewal, applicants must ensure they meet certain criteria, including U.S. citizenship and the provision of necessary documentation for changes in addresses. Proper completion and notarization of the DDS-23S form are essential, as well as the inclusion of a vision screening form if applicable. The renewal process can take up to ten business days and is limited to five-year renewals; eight-year options require in-person visits. Payment of a $20 fee, along with various supporting documents, must be submitted to the specified address to initiate the renewal by mail.

Dds23S Example

DDS Mail-in Renewal Options

Thank you for your interest in renewing your Georgia driver’s license, permit, or ID card. The Georgia Department of Driver Services offers renewal by mail options under limited circumstances for U.S. citizen customers who are unable to renew their license in person.

The following customers may utilize this option:

Customers stationed out of state in the military, and their dependents stationed with them

Customers attending school out of the State of Georgia, and their dependents who are with them

Customers temporarily working out of state, and their dependents who are with them

Customers who are physically incapacitated and unable to visit a DDS Customer Service Center

The following general requirements and conditions apply:

You must be a U.S. Citizen.

If you are changing your Georgia address as part of your renewal, you must include proof of the new address. A listing of acceptable documents for this purpose is enclosed.

The customer requesting renewal must complete the DDS-23S form (Application for Driver’s License, Permit, or Identification Card) and have it notarized in Section F.

Customers 60 years of age or older must provide verification that vision requirements are met if applying to renew a driver’s license or permit (enclosed Vision Form must be completed).

Only a 5-year renewal is allowed through this method. 8-year renewal is not allowed by mail.

The customer must provide payment of $20 for a 5-year renewal, payable by check, money order, or credit card.

Processing can take up to ten business days from receipt of your application package. Failure to provide all required documents will delay renewal of your license. Expedited processing is not available. Requests will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Only renewal of non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID’s is available by mail. Renewal of Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDL’s) must be done in person at a DDS location.

To complete renewal by mail, please mail all required documents (see reverse side for specific requirements) to the following address along with your payment:

DDS Special Issuance

2206 Eastview Parkway

Conyers, GA 30013

Please make checks or money orders payable to DDS for the renewal fee of $20. A separate check or money order is required for each customer’s renewal request. If paying by credit card, please complete the enclosed Credit Card Authorization Form and return with your application package.

The chart on the back of this page lists the documents required for each type of renewal. Blank application form (DDS-23S), Vision Screening Results form if applicable (DDS-274A), and Credit Card Authorization (DDS-100) form are enclosed for completion.

Please direct any questions to our Customer Contact Center at 1-866-754-3687.

DDS Mail-in Renewal Requirements

Please check the section that applies to you and submit all required documents in that section.

Include this form with your documents.

Note: 8-year renewal is not available by mail.

 

Military

 

Students

1.

DDS-23S application completed and notarized

1.

DDS-23S application completed and notarized

2.

Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A)

2.

Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A)

 

completed (if applicable)

 

completed (if applicable)

3.

Payment of $20 (check, money order, or credit

3.

Payment of $20 (check, money order, or credit

 

card authorization)

 

card authorization)

4.

Signed letter from Commanding Officer on

4.

Signed letter from an official at the school on

 

military unit letterhead verifying that the

 

school letterhead verifying that the student

 

customer (referenced by name) is currently

 

(referenced by name) is currently enrolled in

 

serving at the location, or that the customer

 

the school, or that the customer (referenced by

 

(referenced by name) is the spouse or

 

name) is the spouse or dependent of a student

 

dependent of a member of the military

 

(referenced by name) currently enrolled in the

 

(referenced by name) currently serving at the

 

school

 

location

 

 

 

Temporarily Employed Out of State

 

Physically Unable to Visit CSC in Person

1.

DDS-23S application completed and notarized

1.

DDS-23S application completed and notarized

2.

Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A)

2.

Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A)

 

completed (if applicable)

 

completed (if applicable)

3.

Payment of $20 (check, money order, or credit

3.

Payment of $20 (check, money order, or credit

 

card authorization)

 

card authorization)

4.

Signed letter from the customer’s employer on

4.

Signed verification from a licensed physician

 

employer letterhead verifying that the customer

 

that the customer is incapacitated and unable to

 

(referenced by name) is temporarily employed

 

visit a DDS Customer Service Center in person

 

outside the State of Georgia, or that the

 

to renew

 

customer (referenced by name) is the spouse or

 

 

 

dependent of an employee (referenced by

 

 

 

name) temporarily employed outside the State

 

 

 

of Georgia

 

 

Please mail all required documents to the following address along with your payment of $20 (no fee if customer holds a current Veteran license):

DDS Special Issuance

2206 Eastview Parkway

Conyers, GA 30013

APPLICATION FOR DRIVER’S LICENSE, PERMIT,

OR IDENTIFICATION CARD

DRIVER’S LICENSE/PERMIT/ID NUMBER

RESTRICTIONS

CLASSE(S) APPLIED FOR

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

 

SECTION A

 

*Response is optional

 

 

 

 

 

 

LAST NAME

 

 

 

SUFFIX

FIRST NAME

 

 

MIDDLE NAME (MAIDEN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPLETE GEORGIA ADDRESS (STREET ADDRESS OR PO BOX, APT #, CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMPLETE MAILING ADDRESS IF DIFFERENT (STREET ADDRESS OR PO BOX, APT #, CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE TO MAIL LICENSE TO)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PRIMARY TELEPHONE NUMBER*

SECONDARY TELEPHONE NUMBER*

EMAIL ADDRESS*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DATE OF BIRTH

 

 

MALE

HEIGHT

WEIGHT

EYE COLOR

SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FEMALE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MONTH

DAY

YEAR

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Are you a U.S. citizen?

Yes

No

If No, what is your Alien Registration Number or I-94 Number?

SECTION B (check appropriate boxes and answer applicable questions)

1.List the names of all states or countries, including Georgia, in which you have ever been issued or currently hold a driver’s license, instructional permit, or identification card. For each state or country, list the number, name, and date of birth on the card.

2.List the names of all states or countries, including Georgia, in which your driver’s license, instructional permit, or identification card, or privilege to drive is currently revoked, suspended, canceled, or denied. For each state or country, list the reason and when the action was taken.

3.Is your driver’s license being held by a police officer, law enforcement agency, or court in this state or any other

state or country?

If Yes, explain:

Yes

No

If applying for a driver’s license or instructional permit, do you wear glasses or contact lenses for driving?

Yes

No

Vision Screening Results Field of Vision

With Lenses

Without Lenses

FOR DEPARTMENTAL USE ONLY

DO NOT WRITE IN THIS SPACE

Sight Screener

Right

 

20/

20/

Doctor Certificate

Left

 

20/

20/

Bioptics

Both

 

 

20/

20/

5.

Are you a habitual user of alcohol or any drug to a degree which renders you incapable of safely driving a motor vehicle?

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

6.

Have you ever had seizures, fainting, heart trouble, hearing problems, musculoskeletal performance problems, or respiratory

Yes

No

 

function problems? If Yes, date of last incident: ____ /____ /____

 

 

 

Please describe and provide physician name and city:

 

 

7.Have you ever been diagnosed with any mental disability or disease? If yes, have ever been rendered incompetent?

If so, are you currently restored to competency by the methods provided by law?

8.Do you have any identical brother(s) or sister(s)? If Yes, list full name(s):

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

Yes

No

9.

Do you wish to have “Organ Donor” displayed on your license or ID?

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

10.

If applying for a driver’s license or instructional permit, do you want to donate $1 for the prevention of blindness?

N/A

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

11.

If you are a male U.S. citizen under the age of 26, have you registered with the Selective Service System?

N/A

Yes

No

The Georgia Department of Driver Services is required to ask all males under the age of 26 who are U.S. citizens whether they have registered with the U.S. Selective Service System, and to report the responses to the U.S. Selective Service System. Your response today does not initiate registration with the U.S. Selective Service System, however, you may be contacted by that agency as a result of your response. Your signature on this application serves as an indication that you have already registered with the U.S. Selective Service System or that you are authorizing the department to forward the necessary information to that agency for such registration. Your signature on this application constitutes consent to be registered with the U.S. Selective System if you are not already so registered. O.C.G.A. §40-5-8.

DDS-23S 1/1/2013

SECTION C – Lost/Stolen License

If you cannot surrender your license for any reason, please check the appropriate box below:

I am unable to surrender my SUSPENDED or REVOKED driver’s license to DDS because it is lost, or for some other reason, surrender is not possible.

I am seeking renewal or replacement of my lost Georgia driver’s license, permit, or identification card. I hereby swear or affirm that my Georgia driver’s license/permit/ID card is not currently revoked, suspended, cancelled, or denied; nor is it being held by a police officer, law enforcement agency, licensing jurisdiction, or court in this or any other state.

SECTION D – Emergency Contact Information

 

Name

Telephone Number

Relationship

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Relative

Friend

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SECTION E – Voter Registration Application

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.

Do you want to register to vote?

 

 

 

Yes

No

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.

If you are requesting a change of address on this application, is the change of address for voter registration purposes also?

Yes

No

 

3.Race (optional):

Asian/Pacific Islander

Black

Hispanic/Latino

White

Other

Your signature in this section serves as an attestation under penalty of perjury that all of the following requirements have been met:

I am a citizen of the United States, and I am a resident of the State of Georgia and of the county or municipality in which I seek to vote.

I am 18 years of age or older or will be 18 years of age within six months of the date of my application.

I am not serving a sentence for having been convicted of a felony involving moral turpitude.

I have not been judicially determined to be mentally incompetent, or if such determination has been made, the disability has been removed.

WARNING: Any person who registers to vote knowing that such person does not possess the qualifications required by law, who registers under any name other than such person’s own legal name, or who knowingly gives false information in registering, shall be guilty of a felony.

Signature

 

Date

/

/

SECTION F – Required Signatures

Under penalty of law, I swear or affirm that I am a resident of the State of Georgia, and the information provided on this application is true and correct. I understand that it is illegal to make false, fictitious, or fraudulent statements on this application. I grant permission to the Department of Driver Services to verify information furnished to the Department through the release of any and all applicant information to third parties which shall include, but not be limited to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or other public or private entities wherein such disclosure of the information by the Department is not prohibited by law.

Applicant’s Signature

 

 

Date

/

/

NOTARY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SEAL

Notary Signature

 

Date

 

/

/

 

 

The section below must be completed if applicant is under 18 years of age:

 

 

 

 

 

 

I,

the issuance of this driver’s license or instructional permit. and that the information provided here is true and correct.

,hereby certify that I am the parent, guardian, or responsible adult approving I further certify that I have reviewed the information contained in this application,

Signature (Parent, Guardian, or Authorized Person)

 

Date

/

/

Date of Birth

/

/

Driver’s License/Identification/Social Security Number

 

 

 

 

FOR DEPARTMENTAL USE ONLY

Non-Commercial Exam Results

Date

Class

Law

Road Signs

Motorcycle RT

Road Test

General Observations / Retake Reason:

DDS-23S 1/1/2013

Georgia Department of Driver Services

Application for Non-Commercial License

Vision Screening Results

Instructions: Section A must be completed by the applicant. Sections B and C must be completed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist currently licensed to practice in the United States, and the applicant must sign the form in Section C in the presence of the optometrist or ophthalmologist.

SECTION A – CUSTOMER INFORMATION – TO BE COMPLETED BY APPLICANT

Driver’s License Number _____________________ Date of Birth ________________

Applicant’s Full Legal Name _______________________________________________

Applicant’s Complete Address _____________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________

SECTION B – VISUAL EXAMINATION RESULTS

1. Visual Acuity

Right eye – 20/______

Left eye – 20/______

2. Horizontal Field of Vision

Right _______ Degrees

Left _______ Degrees

3. Were corrective lenses used for these results? Yes

Total _______ Degrees

No

Check here if correction is achieved with other than conventional lenses (bioptics). If box is checked, a detailed report must be attached.

IMPORTANT: For proper identification, please have the person whom you have examined sign the report in your presence.

SIGN HERE: ________________________________________________________

Date of examination ____________

Comments __________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

DDS274A 9/2012

SECTION C – OPTOMETRIST / OPTHALMOLOGIST CERTIFICATION

I __________________________________________________ being licensed to practice in

the state of ____________________, hereby certify that I have personally examined the vision

of the above named, that the results indicated on this form represent a true record of my examination and that he or she signed this form in my presence.

Printed Name of Optometrist/Ophthalmologist

Business Address

Telephone Number

 

License #

Signature of Optometrist / Ophthalmologist

Today’s Date

DDS274A 9/2012

Credit Card Payment Authorization Form

Instructions: To pay by credit card, please complete both sections below.

 

CREDIT CARD HOLDER INFORMATION

 

Please check credit card type:

 

 

 

Visa

MasterCard

Discover

American Express

Credit card number: _____________________________

Expiration date :__________/__________( mm/yy )

Exact name as it appears on the credit card: _________________________________________________________

Billing Zip Code: _________________________________ Amount to be charged: $ _____________________

Primary phone number: ______________________________ Secondary phone number: ____________________

Cardholder Signature: _______________________________________

Date: ___________________

LICENSEE/DRIVER INFORMATION

Name as it appears on Driver's License/ID: _________________________________________________________

Licensee's Drivers License / ID number: ___________________________________________________________

Birth date: ___________ /__________ /____________ (mm/dd/yyyy)

Gender (circle one): Male Female

Please send this credit/debit card payment form and supporting documents to:

Georgia Department of Driver Services

ATTN: Validation

P. O. Box 80447

Conyers, GA 30013

What type of service is this payment for?

DDS-100 12/08

Mail in Renewal – Georgia Address Change

Please provide one document from the list below if your request for renewal includes a change of your address in Georgia.

Utility bill issued within the last sixty (60) days;

In general a utility bill will be for a service provided to the customer that designates their residency or service address. Common examples include telephone, mobile phone, water, sewer, electricity, gas, propane, satellite, cable TV, Internet or garbage collection.

Bank statement issued within the last sixty (60) days;

A bank statement is considered a statement, printout or letter from any financial services company.

Common examples include statements for Checking or Savings accounts, Credit Card statements, credit union statements, loan payments, auto, motorcycle and RV loans.

Currently valid rental contracts and/or receipts for payments made within the last sixty (60) days for rent payments;

This includes rental agreements and leases for a home, apartment, mobile home, dorm, extended stay hotel, etc. Common examples include rental agreement or receipt, general lease agreement, student housing contract, letter from shelters, retirement or medical centers and extended stay hotel receipts.

Employer verification, including, but not limited to, one of the following:

Employer verification may be a formal statement or letter from the company stating the residency address for the employee. Letters should be on company letterhead.

Common examples include Paycheck, Paycheck stub, W-2 form from current or preceding year (these can also be used for SSN verification).

Examples that can only be used to prove residency include letters from the employer, military orders, etc.

Non-expired Georgia driver’s license, permit or identification card issued to the applicant’s parent, guardian, spouse, or child;

For minors and dependents, unexpired GA driver’s license, permit or ID card issued to parent, guardian or spouse residing in same household. For dependent parents, unexpired GA driver’s license, permit or ID card issued to a relative residing in the same household.

Health insurance statement or explanation of benefits for claim;

This includes all health related invoices or statements for service or benefits. Specific information concerning medical conditions should be covered if possible prior to scanning.

Common examples include Health/life insurance statement or invoices, Hospital, clinic, doctor, or lab bills.

State of Georgia or Federal income tax return for current or preceding calendar year;

This includes all information mailed to the customer concerning tax matters from the State of Georgia or Federal Government.

Common examples include tax statements, bills or refund checks.

Annual social security statement for current or preceding calendar year;

This can include any documentation from the Social Security Administration that includes their address. Common examples include Annual Benefit statement, Numident record, Social Security Check.

Medicare or Medicaid statement;

This can include any documentation from the State or Federal Insurance programs.

Common examples Medicare/Medicaid statements, unemployment statements, WIC or other public assistance statements or statements issued by a Federal, State or Municipality.

School record or transcript for current or preceding calendar year;

This includes documentation from all instructional institutions public and private.

Common examples include the DS1, School transcripts, student loans or report cards.

Homeowners insurance policy or bill for current or preceding calendar year;

This includes statements or invoices from insurance or mortgage companies.

Common examples include Homeowners insurance bill, statement of claim, binder or cancellation notice.

Mortgage, payment coupon, deed, or property tax bill for current or preceding calendar year. This includes documentation for household or other real property.

Common examples include household mortgage, settlement or escrow statements, property tax bills, or vehicle registration.

Additional Approved Documents

Voter Registration card; unexpired firearms license (gun permit); unexpired Merchant Marine License; I-797A; I-797C; correspondence from DDS; other documents issued by Federal/State/Municipal government

File Breakdown

Fact Name Fact Description
Eligible Applicants U.S. citizens stationed out of state, students attending school outside Georgia, temporarily employed customers, and those physically incapacitated can apply for mail-in renewal.
Notarization Requirement The DDS-23S form must be completed and notarized before submission.
Age Requirement Applicants aged 60 and older must document meeting vision requirements to renew a driver’s license.
Renewal Duration Renewals by mail are limited to 5 years. An 8-year renewal is not permitted through this method.
Payment Method A payment of $20 is required for the renewal, which can be made via check, money order, or credit card.
Processing Time Application processing may take up to 10 business days. Incomplete submissions may cause delays.
Mailing Location Applications must be sent to DDS Special Issuance, 2206 Eastview Parkway, Conyers, GA 30013.
Restrictions on License Types Mail-in renewal is only available for non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID cards. Commercial Driver's License renewal must occur in person.
Applicable Law The process is governed by O.C.G.A. §40-5-8, which sets the framework for driver's license applications in Georgia.

Guide to Using Dds23S

Next, you'll need to fill out the DDS-23S form to renew your Georgia driver’s license, permit, or ID card by mail. Ensure you gather all necessary documents and payment before submitting your application. Following these steps will help you complete the form correctly and efficiently.

  1. Print the DDS-23S form clearly.
  2. In Section A, fill in your personal details, including your last name, first name, middle name, complete address, date of birth, and social security number.
  3. Indicate whether you are a U.S. citizen by selecting “Yes” or “No.” If you answer “No,” provide your Alien Registration Number or I-94 Number.
  4. Provide your height, weight, eye color, and gender.
  5. In Section B, list all states or countries where you have held a driver’s license, permit, or ID. Include any current revocations or suspensions.
  6. Answer the vision and health-related questions in Section B if applying for a driver's license or instructional permit.
  7. If applicable, complete the Vision Screening Results form (DDS-274A) to verify that you meet vision standards.
  8. Include a signed letter if you qualify under military or other specific circumstances outlined in the requirements.
  9. Attach payment of $20 via check, money order, or fill out the Credit Card Authorization form if paying by card.
  10. Sign the application in Section F and have it notarized.
  11. Double-check that all required documents are included before mailing your application.
  12. Mail your completed package to DDS Special Issuance, 2206 Eastview Parkway, Conyers, GA 30013.

Get Answers on Dds23S

What is the DDS-23S form?

The DDS-23S form is the Application for Driver’s License, Permit, or Identification Card in Georgia. It is used by individuals wishing to renew their driver's license, permit, or ID card by mail under specific circumstances.

Who is eligible to renew their license by mail using the DDS-23S form?

Eligible individuals include:

  • U.S. citizens stationed out of state in the military and their dependents.
  • Students attending school outside of Georgia and their dependents.
  • Individuals temporarily working out of state and their dependents.
  • Individuals who are physically incapacitated and cannot visit a DDS Customer Service Center.

What are the requirements for submitting the DDS-23S form?

Applicants must meet the following general requirements:

  • Must be a U.S. citizen.
  • If changing the Georgia address, proof of the new address is required.
  • The DDS-23S form must be completed and notarized.
  • Applicants aged 60 or older must provide proof of meeting vision requirements.
  • Only a 5-year renewal can be processed; 8-year renewal is not available by mail.
  • A payment of $20 is required, which can be made by check, money order, or credit card.

How should I submit my renewal application and payment?

Mail the completed DDS-23S form, required documents, and payment to:

DDS Special Issuance
2206 Eastview Parkway
Conyers, GA 30013

If paying by credit card, include a completed Credit Card Authorization Form.

How long does the renewal process take?

Processing of your application can take up to ten business days from the date it is received. Ensure that all required documents are included to avoid delays. Expedited processing is not available, and applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.

What if I am 60 years old or older?

Applicants who are 60 years of age or older must submit a Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A) as part of their application, confirming that they meet the necessary vision standards to renew their driver's license or permit.

Can I renew a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) by mail?

No, the renewal of Commercial Driver’s Licenses must be completed in person at a DDS location. The mail-in renewal option is only available for non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID cards.

Where can I get assistance if I have questions about the DDS-23S form?

For questions or further assistance, contact the Customer Contact Center at 1-866-754-3687. They can provide guidance and clarify any details related to your renewal application.

Common mistakes

Filling out the DDS-23S form can be straightforward, but many people make common mistakes that can lead to delays or issues with their application. One prevalent error is failing to properly notarize the form. Section F specifically requires the applicant's signature to be notarized. If this step is overlooked, the application may be rejected, and the renewal process will be delayed.

Another frequent mistake involves the incomplete or missing proof of address. If a customer has changed their Georgia address, they must provide acceptable documentation to verify the new address. Forgetting this crucial piece or not including the correct type of documents often results in complications and delays in processing the application.

In addition to address verification, applicants sometimes forget to enclose the Vision Screening Results Form, particularly those over 60 applying for a driver's license or permit. This form is essential for demonstrating that vision requirements are met, and its absence can lead to automatic rejection of the application.

Payment issues also arise. The form requires a payment of $20, which must be included with the application. Common mistakes include submitting incorrect payment methods or failing to provide a separate check for each renewal request. Some applicants mistakenly believe multiple renewals can be combined into one payment, leading to confusion.

Another oversight involves not reading the instructions thoroughly. Many applicants fail to verify their eligibility for mail-in renewal options. For example, only certain groups, such as military personnel or students, can use this method. Not understanding these eligibility requirements can result in wasted time and effort, as applicants may not qualify for mail-in renewal.

A final common mistake is not carefully reviewing the entire application for accuracy and completeness. Missing signatures, incorrect personal information, or unanswered questions can lead to delays. An incomplete application will not be processed, so it is vital to double-check every detail before submission. This proactive approach can save time and frustration when renewing a driver’s license, permit, or ID card.

Documents used along the form

The DDS-23S form is an important document used for renewing a driver’s license, permit, or identification card in Georgia by mail. Several other forms and documents are often required to accompany the DDS-23S to ensure a smooth renewal process. Below is a brief overview of these related documents.

  • Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A) - This is necessary for customers renewing their driver's licenses. It requires a licensed eye care professional to assess visual acuity and complete the form, particularly for those 60 years or older or those who wear corrective lenses.
  • Credit Card Authorization Form (DDS-100) - This form is used if the customer wishes to pay the renewal fee via credit card. It captures credit card details and authorizes the Department of Driver Services to process the payment.
  • Signed Letter from Employer or School - Required for customers temporarily employed out of state or students attending school outside Georgia. This letter must confirm the customer's current situation, ensuring that they are eligible for mail-in renewal.
  • Proof of Address Change Documentation - If the renewal involves changing the customer's address, acceptable documents must confirm the new address. The Department provides a list of acceptable documents that can serve this purpose.
  • Notarized Signature - The completion of the DDS-23S form requires notarization. This ensures the authenticity of the information provided and confirms that the applicant is indeed signing the document.

Completing all required documentation together with the DDS-23S form is crucial for a successful renewal application. Failing to include necessary forms may lead to significant delays. Always check to ensure you have the latest versions of each document before submission.

Similar forms

The DDS-23S form, used for renewing a driver's license, permit, or ID card in Georgia by mail, shares similarities with several other documents. Each of these forms serves specific purposes within the realm of identification and licensing. Below is a list that highlights their similarities:

  • DDS-274A - Vision Screening Results Form: This document must be completed if an applicant is renewing a driver's license or permit, particularly for those aged 60 and older. Like the DDS-23S form, it requires the submission of vision-related information. Moreover, both forms must be submitted together to allow for proper processing of renewal applications.
  • DDS-100 - Credit Card Authorization Form: This form is necessary when payment for the renewal fee is made through credit card. Similar to the DDS-23S, the DDS-100 must be filled out and submitted alongside other required documents. Both forms are integral to ensuring that the renewal process is conducted smoothly, providing necessary information for financial transactions.
  • Form MV-1 - Title Application: This form is also used in the context of vehicle registration and necessitates personal details about the applicant, much like the DDS-23S. The MV-1 form requires proof of identity and residency, ensuring that the individual has the appropriate documentation to process requests effectively. This parallel emphasizes the necessity for proper identification in various services provided by the Department of Driver Services.
  • Form I-9 - Employment Eligibility Verification: While this form is typically used for employment purposes, it shares a common requirement for verifying an individual’s identity and eligibility. The I-9 requires supporting documents, just as the DDS-23S mandates proof of residency if the applicant's address is changing. This demonstrates a consistent approach toward maintaining secure and verifiable personal information across different forms.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DDS-23S form for renewing your Georgia driver’s license, permit, or ID card, following specific guidelines can make the process smoother. Here are nine important do's and don'ts to keep in mind.

  • Do ensure you are a U.S. citizen, as this is a requirement.
  • Don't forget to notarize your DDS-23S application in Section F. It’s crucial for validation.
  • Do include proof of a new Georgia address if you are changing your address.
  • Don't neglect to provide the $20 renewal fee. Payments can be made by check, money order, or credit card.
  • Do thoroughly read through the specific requirements for your situation. For instance, military members and dependents have different documentation needs.
  • Don't expect to renew commercial driver’s licenses by mail; this must be done in person.
  • Do keep track of the documents you send to ensure none are missing. Missing documents can delay processing.
  • Don't assume expedited processing is an option. It’s handled on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Do contact the Customer Contact Center for any questions or clarifications you might have.

By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll increase your chances of a successful renewal through the mail. Remember, a little attention to detail goes a long way!

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the DDS-23S form can create confusion and lead to unnecessary delays in processing. Below are eight common misunderstandings.

  • Only U.S. citizens can use the DDS-23S form. Many believe that only U.S. citizens can renew by mail. In fact, the mail renewal process is specifically for U.S. citizens.
  • All customers can renew their licenses by mail. Some think that anyone can renew by mail. However, this option is only available for certain groups, such as active military members and those with physical incapacitations.
  • An 8-year renewal is possible by mail. There is a common belief that individuals can choose an 8-year renewal through the mail. This is incorrect. Only a 5-year renewal is permitted by mail.
  • The application does not need to be notarized. Some individuals assume they can skip notarization. Actually, it is essential to have Section F of the form notarized for the application to be valid.
  • Payment methods are limited. A misconception exists that only checks are accepted for the renewal fee. In reality, customers can also use money orders and credit cards when submitting their payments.
  • Processing time is always quick. Many people expect their applications to be processed immediately. In truth, it can take up to ten business days to process the application once received.
  • Vision screening is not required for older applicants. Some believe that customers over 60 do not need to meet vision requirements. On the contrary, these applicants must provide proof of vision compliance if renewing a driver's license or permit.
  • All driver’s licenses can be renewed by mail. There is confusion regarding which types of licenses can be renewed by mail. Only non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID cards can be renewed this way; commercial licenses require in-person renewal.

Key takeaways

When filling out and utilizing the DDS-23S form for renewing your Georgia driver's license, permit, or ID card by mail, consider the following key takeaways:

  • Eligibility: Only U.S. citizens who meet specific criteria, such as military members stationed out of state, students attending school outside Georgia, or individuals physically unable to visit a DDS location, are eligible to use this mail-in renewal option.
  • Required Documents: Complete the DDS-23S form, and ensure it is notarized. Include proof of your new address if changing, verification of vision requirements if over 60, and a payment of $20. All supporting documents must be included to avoid delays.
  • Processing Time: Expect processing to take up to ten business days from when your application package is received. Note that it operates on a first-come, first-serve basis; expedited processing is not available.
  • Mailing Instructions: Send your renewal application along with the required documentation and payment to the specified address: DDS Special Issuance, 2206 Eastview Parkway, Conyers, GA 30013. Make checks or money orders payable to DDS, and ensure you provide a separate payment method for each renewal request.