'Renew Early'; GA ID Delivery Could Take Weeks, DDS Says

GEORGIA — The delivery of driver's licenses and identification cards may be delayed in getting to residents, the Georgia Department of Driver Services said Tuesday.

Permanent ID deliveries may be late due to consistent issues with the United States Postal Service, 11Alive reported, though the DDS did not specify factors prompting the delays.

“Due to circumstances beyond our control, there is a possibility that customers’ permanent driver’s licenses and/or ID Cards may be delayed in arriving,” DDS Commissioner Spencer R. Moore said in a news release.

Cards could take as long as 2-4 weeks to be delivered, said the DDS, which requested customers' patience.

The DDS advised residents carry their last issued license or ID and any paper interim licenses or IDs, along with receipts.

"We strongly encourage customers to plan ahead and take advantage of the opportunity to renew early. Most customers can renew their licenses and IDs up to 150 days prior to the expiration date," the DDS said.

Licenses in Georgia can be renewed for up to eight years. Anyone with Real ID documents can complete their renewals via mail, in-person at a DDS center or via Online Services. Real IDs have a black or gold star in the top right corner.

Renewal applications sent by mail can take about 30 days to process after the application is received, the DDS noted on its website. Mailed applications can be sent at least 60 days prior to the expiration date of licenses.

Information about required documents and payments can be found here.