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The DDS-23S form serves a vital role in the renewal of Georgia driver’s licenses, permits, or ID cards for specific groups of individuals. This form is particularly useful for U.S. citizens who find themselves unable to renew their credentials in person due to various circumstances. Eligible individuals include military personnel stationed outside Georgia, students enrolled in out-of-state educational institutions, temporary workers located out of state, and those who are physically incapacitated. Applying through this method operates under defined guidelines. For instance, to renew by mail, the applicant needs to affirm their U.S. citizenship and ensure all necessary documentation is provided, such as proof of a new Georgia address if applicable. Additionally, customers aged 60 and over are required to submit a vision screening form as part of their application. With a nominal renewal fee of $20, applicants can expect processing to take up to ten business days after submission. It is important to note that this mail-in process is limited to non-commercial licenses, as commercial driver’s licenses must be renewed in person. To avoid delays, thorough attention to the form's requirements is essential, including notarization and submission of payment, along with the completed application. Questions regarding the form or the renewal process can be directed to the Georgia Department of Driver Services' Customer Contact Center.

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

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Eligible Customers This form is intended for U.S. citizens in limited circumstances, such as military members stationed out of state, students, or those physically unable to visit a DDS center.
Notarization Requirement The DDS-23S form must be completed and notarized in Section F to be accepted for mail renewal.
Vision Screening Applicants aged 60 and older must provide verification that they meet vision requirements. A Vision Form may be necessary.
Renewal Period The mail-in renewal process allows only for a 5-year renewal period; an 8-year renewal cannot be processed by mail.
Payment Method The renewal fee of $20 can be paid by check, money order, or credit card. Ensure to include a separate payment for each individual's renewal.
Processing Time Once the application is received, processing may take up to ten business days. Missing documents will delay renewal.
Governing Law Georgia law, specifically O.C.G.A. §40-5-8, governs the processes related to the DDS-23S form and the renewal of driver's licenses, permits, or ID cards.

Guidelines on Utilizing Dds23S

After collecting the necessary information and documentation, you're ready to fill out the DDS-23S form for the renewal of your Georgia driver’s license, permit, or identification card. It is crucial to follow the steps carefully to ensure that your application is complete to avoid any delays in processing.

  1. Obtain a blank DDS-23S application form. This can be found on the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) website or included in the mail renewal packet.
  2. Complete Section A of the form. Provide your last name, first name, middle name, and any suffixes. Fill in your complete Georgia address and a mailing address if different.
  3. Enter your primary and secondary telephone numbers, email address, date of birth, height, weight, eye color, and social security number.
  4. Indicate your citizenship status by checking "Yes" or "No". If you answer "No", include your Alien Registration Number or I-94 Number.
  5. Proceed to Section B, where you will answer questions regarding your previous driver’s licenses, permits, or identification cards. List any states or countries where you have had such documents.
  6. Complete Section C if your license is lost or stolen and cannot be surrendered. Check the appropriate box and provide the reason.
  7. Fill out emergency contact information in Section D, including name, relationship, and telephone number.
  8. In Section E, decide if you want to register to vote and provide the necessary details, including race if you choose to disclose that information.
  9. Review Section F. By signing this section, you affirm that the information you provided is true and correct. Have your signature notarized as required.
  10. If applicable, have the Vision Screening Results form (DDS-274A) completed, if you are over the age of 60 or wear corrective lenses.
  11. Prepare the payment of $20 for the renewal fee, which can be made by check, money order, or credit card. Ensure you include a separate payment if sending in multiple applications.
  12. Gather all required documents based on your situation, such as proof of new address, vision screening results, or employer verification.
  13. Send your completed application form and all required documentation to the designated address: DDS Special Issuance, 2206 Eastview Parkway, Conyers, GA 30013.

Once your application has been submitted, the processing time can take up to ten business days. Keep in mind that submitting a complete application will help avoid delays in renewing your license. For any questions, you can contact the Georgia Department of Driver Services Customer Contact Center at 1-866-754-3687.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the DDS-23S form and who needs to complete it?

The DDS-23S form is the Application for Driver’s License, Permit, or Identification Card specific to Georgia residents. It is primarily for U.S. citizens who are unable to renew their driver's license, permit, or ID card in person. Certain groups of people, such as military members stationed out of state, students attending school outside Georgia, and individuals who are physically unable to visit a DDS Customer Service Center, may utilize this mail-in renewal option. When completing this form, it's crucial that the applicant has the document notarized in Section F to confirm their identity and intent.

Are there specific requirements that must be met to qualify for mail-in renewal?

Yes, there are several requirements that must be met to qualify for the mail-in renewal option. Firstly, applicants must be U.S. citizens. If changing addresses in Georgia, supporting proof of the new address must be included with the application. Furthermore, if you're 60 years or older and renewing a driver’s license or permit, you will need to provide verification that you meet specific vision requirements. Payment of $20 for the renewal is also necessary, which can be made by check, money order, or credit card. Remember, only a 5-year renewal is possible through this method; an 8-year renewal cannot be processed by mail.

What documents should be included when submitting the DDS-23S form?

When mailing your renewal application, it’s essential to include all required documents to avoid delays. Along with the completed and notarized DDS-23S form, you will need the Vision Screening Results form (if applicable) and a payment of $20. Additional requirements vary depending on your situation. For instance, military members must include a signed letter from their Commanding Officer verifying their status, whereas students must provide verification from an official at their school. Carefully check the specific requirements listed for your category to ensure you include everything necessary.

How long does the renewal process take, and is expedited processing available?

The processing of your mail-in renewal application can take up to ten business days from the moment your application package is received. It's important to ensure that all required documents are included to avoid any potential delays. Unfortunately, expedited processing is not available for mail-in renewals, so it is advisable to submit your application well in advance of any deadlines. Applications will be processed on a first-come, first-serve basis, so timely submission can help in receiving your new driver’s license or ID without unnecessary waiting.

Common mistakes

Completing the DDS-23S form can be a straightforward process, but there are several common mistakes applicants tend to make. Recognizing these pitfalls can help ensure a smoother renewal experience for Georgia driver’s licenses, permits, or ID cards.

One frequent error involves omitting required documentation. Applicants often fail to include proof of address changes. If you are updating your address, you must provide acceptable documentation, as specified on the form. Without this proof, your application may be delayed or rejected outright, making the process frustrating.

Another mistake is not having the DDS-23S form notarized. The application must be notarized in Section F. Applicants frequently overlook this requirement, assuming that it is merely another formality. However, a lack of notarization means the form is incomplete, which results in processing delays.

Some individuals also misinterpret the renewal options. Notably, individuals might mistakenly believe they can apply for an 8-year renewal by mail. This is not permitted; the mail-in renewal option only allows for a 5-year renewal. If you attempt to send in an application for an 8-year renewal, it will be rejected, and you will need to start the process again.

Payment method errors also arise. Applicants commonly submit payments incorrectly, either by not including the correct amount or using the wrong payment method. The fee is $20, to be paid via check, money order, or credit card. A failure to provide a separate payment for each individual renewal can lead to confusion.

Not completing all necessary sections of the application is yet another error. Applicants can get overwhelmed by the number of questions and sections, especially if they address multiple renewal scenarios. Each relevant section must be fully completed, or the application may not be processed.

Lastly, waiting too long to submit the application can lead to significant issues. Since processing can take up to ten business days, procrastination can create lapses in licensing. This is crucial for individuals who rely on their driver’s license for daily activities.

A keen eye for detail can prevent these common mistakes. By carefully reviewing your application, you can help ensure that your renewal process is quick and efficient.

Documents used along the form

The DDS-23S form is a vital document for individuals seeking to renew their Georgia driver's license, permit, or ID card through mail. Along with the DDS-23S, there are several other forms and documents you may need. Understanding these can help streamline the renewal process and ensure you submit everything required.

  • Vision Screening Results Form (DDS-274A): This form provides proof that the applicant meets the vision requirements for a driver's license. It must be completed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist and signed by both the practitioner and the applicant.
  • Credit Card Authorization Form (DDS-100): If you choose to pay the renewal fee by credit card, this form must be filled out. It allows the Georgia Department of Driver Services to charge the payment to your credit card.
  • Signed Verification from Employer or Official: For individuals temporarily employed out of state or military personnel, a signed letter from the employer or a military commanding officer must verify the applicant's status and current location.
  • Proof of Address Change: If you are changing your address while applying for renewal, acceptable documents proving the new address must be included. This can include utility bills or bank statements with your name and the new address.

Gathering the necessary documents and forms ahead of time will help ensure a smoother renewal process. Make sure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays. If you have any questions, it’s wise to reach out to the Customer Contact Center for assistance.

Similar forms

  • Form DDS-274A: Vision Screening Results - This form accompanies the DDS-23S for individuals over 60 or those requiring vision verification. It documents the results of a vision exam and specifies if corrective lenses are used, similar to the way the DDS-23S verifies eligibility and conditions for license renewal.

  • Form DDS-100: Credit Card Authorization - The DDS-100 form allows individuals to authorize payments via credit card. Both forms require payment processing details for the renewal procedure, illustrating the financial component of the renewal process.

  • Form DDS-278: Application for Renewal - The DDS-278 form is used for online or in-person renewals, detailing similar personal information and verification requirements as the DDS-23S, thus ensuring uniformity in gathering applicant data for license renewal.

  • Form DDS-45: Change of Address - The DDS-45 captures updates regarding an applicant's address. Similar to the DDS-23S, which requires proof of address change with renewal applications, both forms ensure that the Department of Driver Services has the most current information.

  • Form DDS-22: Application for Replacement - The DDS-22 is used when a driver’s license or ID card is lost or stolen. Like the DDS-23S, it requires notarization and captures personal information, reflecting a consistent approach to identity verification within driver services.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DDS-23S form, keep these important tips in mind:

  • Ensure all information is accurate and complete before submitting.
  • Have the form notarized in Section F to validate your application.
  • Include proof of your new Georgia address if applicable.
  • Provide payment of $20 using a check, money order, or credit card authorization.

To avoid delays or issues, do not:

  • Forget to notarize the form where required, as this could lead to rejection.
  • Submit your application without verifying that all necessary documents are included.
  • Attempt an 8-year renewal through mail, as it's only valid for a 5-year period.
  • Neglect to check if you require additional forms, such as the Vision Screening Results Form.

Misconceptions

The DDS-23S form is associated with the renewal of Georgia driver's licenses, permits, or ID cards. However, several misconceptions exist about this form. Here is a clarification of nine common misunderstandings:

  • Misconception 1: Anyone can renew their license by mail.
  • Renewal by mail is only available to specific groups, such as military personnel or those temporarily living out of state.

  • Misconception 2: The renewal process takes a short time.
  • Processing can take up to ten business days. Delays may occur if required documents are missing.

  • Misconception 3: You can renew a commercial driver’s license by mail.
  • This option is only for non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID cards. Commercial licenses must be renewed in person.

  • Misconception 4: Notarization of the form is optional.
  • The DDS-23S form must be notarized in Section F when submitting for renewal.

  • Misconception 5: You can renew for eight years by mail.
  • Only a five-year renewal option is permitted through the mail. An eight-year renewal is not available.

  • Misconception 6: Payment methods are flexible.
  • Payment must be through check, money order, or credit card authorization, as specified. A separate payment is required for each individual’s renewal.

  • Misconception 7: You do not need to provide proof of a new address.
  • If changing your address, include proof of the new address with your application. Failure to do so may delay processing.

  • Misconception 8: Anyone can apply for a mail-in renewal regardless of citizenship.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen to utilize the mail-in renewal process.

  • Misconception 9: All required documents are listed on the application itself.
  • Applicants must check the specific requirements and ensure all documents are included, as additional instructions may accompany the application.

Key takeaways

1. Eligibility Requirements: The DDS-23S form is designated for U.S. citizens who are unable to renew their driver's license, permit, or ID card in person under specific circumstances. Eligible individuals include military personnel stationed out of state, students attending school outside Georgia, temporary out-of-state workers, and those who are physically incapacitated.

2. Documentation and Notarization: When submitting the DDS-23S form, applicants must ensure not only that the form is completed and notarized, but also that any address changes are accompanied by proof of the new address. Supporting documents, including a Vision Screening Results form for customers over 60, must be included as specified.

3. Payment Structure: The renewal fee for the DDS-23S form is $20. This payment can be made via check, money order, or credit card authorization. It's essential to provide a separate payment for each renewal request to avoid delays in processing.

4. Processing Time and Restrictions: Once submitted, the application can take up to ten business days to process. It is important to note that only non-commercial licenses, permits, and ID cards can be renewed by mail through this process. Customers seeking to renew a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) must do so in person.