GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES 2019 2020 DRIVERS MANUAL REVISED 7/1/2019 With support from Scan this cover with the Download the DDS 2 GO App FREE App to access mobile content. TAKE THE PLEDGE TO DRIVE SAFELY. DISTRACTION LEVEL Every time I am behind the wheel, I pledge to keep my: n Eyes on the road n Hands on the wheel n Mind on the task of driving 5 Tips for Reducing Driving Distractions 1. Before you begin driving, set mirrors, adjust climate control, program GPS, etc. 2. Familiarize yourself with the vehicle controls before you hit the road. 3. Secure mobile devices and any objects that may move and distract you while driving. 4. Pull off the road to make or return calls, check social media, send emails, etc. 5. If you have passengers, enlist their help so you can focus on driving. Distracted driving is dangerous driving. Learn more at AAA.com Source: AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety 19-PR-0045 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF DRIVER SERVICES CONTENTS DDS CUSTOMER 2 SERVICE CENTERS LICENSES, PERMITS & IDENTIFICATION CARDS General Licensing Information 6 Obtaining a License, Permit 12 or Identification Card Testing Information 16 Other Services and Information 18 RULES, REGULATIONS, LAWS AND SAFETY Traffic Laws 22 Teen Driving Laws 30 Signs, Signals, and Markings 34 Safety Guidelines 44 Sharing the Road 48 Losing Your Driving Privileges 52 Crashes 56 DDS MISSION & CORE VALUES Our Mission To provide secure driver and identity credentials to our customers with excellence and respect. Our Core Values: Trusted Service Ethical Actions Accountable to All Motivated to Excellence #AchievingNewHeightsin2019 Title VI Policy Statement The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) is committed to compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and all related nondiscrimination authorities. DDS assures that no person shall, on the grounds of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, low-income, and Limited English Proficiency (LEP), be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be otherwise subjected to discrimination under any program or activity. DDS further assures that every effort will be made to ensure nondiscrimination in all of its programs and activities, whether or not those programs and activities are federally funded. In addition, DDS will take reasonable steps to provide meaningful access to services for persons with Limited English Proficiency. Finally, DDS agrees to abide by the Title VI Program Assurances and to ensure that written agreements with any party for federally funded programs or services will include the applicable Title VI language as provided in the Title VI Program Assurances. The DDS Title VI Program Coordinator is responsible for oversight of the Title VI Program and ensuring compliance with the requirements provided in 49 Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R) Part 21 and 49 C.F.R. Part 303. The Title VI Program Coordinator and all Division Directors are authorized to effectively implement the Title VI Program on behalf of the Department. DDS ONLINE SERVICES Be certain to take advantage of DDS Online Services and avoid an unnecessary trip to a Customer Service Center. DDS Online Services enable thousands of Georgia drivers to conduct many transactions via dds.georgia.gov and eliminate a visit to a DDS Customer Service Center (CSC). This saves customers valuable time and money. DDS does not charge an additional fee for choosing Online Services. A $5.00 discount may apply for eligible license types that are renewed on the internet. For more information visit the DDS website at: dds.georgia.gov and like DDS on Facebook! SLCCLASuiDilcducaseLdbespnnrmseSessneDiseetslsf/SPti-IooDCCtrnaoehCRtoroualtefanrsinfsogRiescfeewaRCitnaeiCoUlssAnotipadRrgMteeRDrneamecdSdpeyieEclnaaaRtcnlVIednDImC/foooeEcrrnumSStmoatecinoiatnlsSecurity PLSeiucnpedenirsneSgpRSeeueisndpseetrantseimonesnPt AY FEES RMMDSOearkonsikitvlpeoeiinrnravRecgaySoFtHctaiooelidesrpn-tT!HSoSe(airCtrsyfaeetot(tAuEmMyspnOVpTpdlTRreooaH)tiriennEstieFRmnmogSerenmERntRetOgVAniIpsClptinErlaieSct)iaotnion DDS-2203-P (3/2017) This manual is produced by the Governmental Affairs and Communications Division of Georgia Department of Driver Services. The information contained in this manual is not intended to be an official legal reference to the Georgia traffic laws. It is intended only to explain, in everyday language, those laws, driving practices, and procedures that you will use most often. It should be noted that the material in this manual is subject to change to comply with amended State and Federal legislation. The department's primary statutory responsibilities are set forth in Title 40 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.) 1 DDS CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTERS This section contains the cities and addresses of all DDS Customer Service Centers (CSC's) in Georgia. You may visit any location for service. Please check hours of operation and driving directions at www.dds.georgia.gov. City Albany Alpharetta Americus Athens Atlanta Augusta Bainbridge Between Blairsville Blue Ridge Brunswick Calhoun Canton Carrollton Cartersville Cedartown Columbus Conyers Cordele Covington Cumming Cuthbert Dallas Dalton Decatur Douglas Dublin Elberton Evans Fayetteville Forest Park Fort Benning Gainesville Greensboro Address 2062 Newton Road 11575 Maxwell Rd 1601 North Martin Luther King Blvd. 1505 US Highway 29 N 400 Whitehall Street, SW 3423 Mike Padgett Highway 101 Airport Road 1010 Heritage Pkwy 37 Chase Drive 211 Industrial Blvd. 134 Jack Hartman Blvd. 402 Belwood Road 220 Brown Industrial Pkwy, Suite 200 512 Old Newnan Road, AMS House 1304 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy 1626 Rockmart Highway 8397 Macon Road, Midland, GA 2206 Eastview Pkwy 409 South Midway Road 8134 Geiger Street 400 Aquatic Circle 608B Blakely Street, South Side Plaza 114 Justice Center Drive 235 Wagner Drive 2801 Candler Road, Suite 82 348 Thomas Frier Sr Drive 620 County Farm Road 45 Forest Avenue 4408 Evans to Locks Road 749 W Lanier Avenue 5036 GA Highway 85 6691 Marchant Avenue, Bldg 217 1010 Aviation Blvd. 1180 C Weldon Smith Drive, Suite 108 City Griffin Helena Hinesville Jackson Kennesaw Kingsland LaGrange Lawrenceville Lithonia Locust Grove Macon Marietta Milledgeville Newnan Norcross Perry Reidsville Rincon Rock Spring Rome Sandersville Savannah Statesboro Swainsboro Thomaston Thomasville Thomson Tifton Toccoa Trenton Valdosta Warner Robins Waycross Address 1313 Arthur K. Bolton Pkwy 351 8th Street 2301 Airport Road 1578 Highway 16 West 3690 Old 41 Hwy NW 333 South Ashley Street 900 Dallis Street 310 Hurricane Shoals Road, NE 8040 Rockbridge Road 619 Tanger Blvd. 200 Cherry Street, Terminal Station 1605 County Services Pkwy 200 Carl Vinson Road 128 Bullsboro Drive 2211 Beaver Ruin Road, Suite 100 450 Larry Walker Pkwy 3092 GA Highway 147 2792 Highway 21 S 156 Pin Oak Drive 3390 Martha Berry Highway, NE 115 Jones Street, Suite 2 1117 Eisenhower Drive 19051 Highway 301 N 994 US Highway 1 N 281 Knight Trail 4788 US 84 Bypass W 172 Bob Kirk Road 3057 US Highway 41 S 62 Doyle Street 75 Case Avenue 371 Gil Harbin Industrial Blvd. 198 Carl Vinson Pkwy 3029 Memorial Drive Williamstown, MA | Birmingham, AL Graphic Design: Jon Gulley, Dane Fay, John Corey, Evelyn Haddad, Chris Sobolowski About This Guide This high-quality guide is offered to you by the Georgia Department of Driver Services through its unique partnership with J.F. Griffin Publishing, LLC. The revenue generated through ad sales significantly lowers production costs and generates savings. These savings translate into additional funds for other important agency programs. If you have any feedback or are interested in advertising, please contact us at 413.884.1001 or at www.JFGriffin.com This guide is available online at 2 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL IN CRAOSEAEMDSIEONIRDFCEGAAEBSRNREOECOAAYFK,DDASOIDWEN, TAP GLASS. During a roadside breakdown, we encourage pointing fingers. When you have AAA's 24/7 roadside assistance, a nationwide service network of more than 50,000 vehicles, faster average response times than other providers1 and the AAA Mobile app, the end of the breakdown begins with a tap of your finger. Join AAA today and put some peace of mind in the palm of your hand. 1-866-685-5222 AAA.com/JoinNow Promo code: DRIVERG Upon activation and with proper identification, AAA will provide regular AAA services and full privileges for the new member. Roadside benefits begin three days after payment of dues. Some restrictions apply. 1 Based on 2013-2016 AAA U.S. Market Track national surveys. 19-PR-0045 MESSAGES GOVERNOR'S MESSAGE "I wish you safe passage and encourage you to exercise good judgment, follow driving laws, and prioritize safety for yourself, fellow motorists, and passengers." Brian P. Kemp Governor GEORGIA.GOV COMMISSIONER'S MESSAGE "Operating a vehicle is a tremendous responsibility, and we want you to be fully prepared to meet the challenges! Please pay particular attention to the sections on Traffic Laws, Teen Driving Laws and Safety Guidelines. By obeying all traffic laws and never driving distracted, we can ensure that our roads are safer for drivers and passengers alike." Spencer R. Moore Commissioner DDS 2 GO BOARD OF DIRECTORS' MESSAGE Board of Directors David W. Connell Chair Jeff Markey Vice Chair Jeff Wigington Secretary Jim Cole - Member Wallace Coopwood - Member Britt Fleck Member Rachel Little Member Hubert Parker Member Bob Pierce - Member The Department of Driver Services (DDS) Board of Directors would like to remind our customers that driving in Georgia is a privilege that carries many responsibilities. Please be a safe and dependable driver to ensure that this privilege will not be lost. This manual has two main purposes: (1) to help you qualify for a Georgia driver's license; and (2) to help you become a safer driver. This guide is designed to provide you with the information to obtain and keep this type of license. Other manuals are available for commercial drivers and motorcycle operators. 5 1 SECTION GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION This Section Covers Requirement to Obtain a Georgia Driver's License........................................ 6 Applicants under age 18........................................ 6 Previous License, Instructional Permits, or Identification Cards........................................... 6 Health Requirements.............................................. 6 Vision Requirements.............................................. 8 Classes of Licenses................................................ 8 Fees/Forms of Payment......................................... 8 Expired License....................................................... 9 Carrying and Displaying Your License............................................................ 9 Secure ID Documentation Requirements.......... 10 Proof of Identity.................................................... 10 Proof of Name Change......................................... 10 Proof of Social Security Number.......................... 10 Proof of Georgia Residency.................................. 10 Requirement to obtain a Georgia Driver's License Georgia law requires that any person wanting to operate a motor vehicle on the roadways of this state obtain a Georgia driver's license or permit within 30 days of becoming a resident. A person meeting at least one of the following criteria is considered a Georgia resident according to Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 40-5-1): A person who has a permanent home or abode in Georgia and, when absent, has the intent of returning; A person who accepts employment or engages in any trade or occupation in Georgia or who enters his/her children in school; Any person that has been in the state for 30 days or more. Not required to obtain a Georgia Driver's License/Permit Any employee of the United States government who is operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States government or that is being operated on official business. This exemption does not apply if the employee is required by the United States government or any agency of the United States Government to have a state driver's license; A nonresident who is at least 16 years of age and who has in his or her immediate possession a valid license issued to him or her in his or her home state or country. However, any restrictions that would apply to a Georgia driver's license as a matter of law would apply to any person who has an out-of-state license. A nonresident who is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States if he or she has a valid license issued by his or her home state. This includes their spouse or dependent son or daughter who has a valid license issued by their home state; Any person who is on active duty in the armed forces of the United States and who has in his or her immediate possession a valid license issued in a foreign country by the armed forces of the United States. However, this license will only be accepted for a period of not more than 45 days from the date of his or her return to the United States; Any person temporarily driving or operating a farm tractor or farm equipment on a highway for the purpose of conducting farm business; Any member of the reserve components of the armed forces of the United States who is operating a motor vehicle owned by or leased to the United States government. However, the motor vehicle must be operated in accordance with the duties of the person as a member of the reserve components of the armed forces; Any person seeking to obtain a driver's license while he or she is taking the driving examination to obtain a license. This person must be accompanied by a driver examiner of the department or a certified examining agent of the department; Any migrant farm worker who works in this state less than 90 days in any calendar year and who possesses a valid driver's license issued by another state; Any resident who is 15 years of age or over while taking actual in-car training in a non-commercial training vehicle and while under the direct personal supervision of a DDS-licensed driving instructor. A driving instructor must test the eyesight of any unlicensed person who will be receiving actual in-car training prior to the training, and the person must meet the vision requirements listed on page 8 of this manual; Any person who is operating a personal transportation vehicle on any roadway publicly maintained for the use of personal transportation vehicles only, or when crossing a street or highway used by other types of motor vehicles at a location designated for such crossing by a motorized cart; A nonresident of Georgia who is attending a school in this state, as long as: a. He or she is at least 16 years of age and has in his or her immediate possession a valid license issued to him or her in his or her home state or country and a valid international driving permit if the license is in a language other than English; provided, however, that any restrictions which would apply to a Georgia driver's license apply to the privileges given to this person; and b. He or she is currently enrolled or was enrolled during the immediately preceding period of enrollment in a school in this state, has paid the tuition charged by the school to nonresidents of Georgia for the current or immediately preceding period of enrollment, and has in his or her posses- sion proof of payment of such tuition paid for the current or immediately preceding period of enrollment. Applicants under age 18 -- automobile or motorcycle In addition to the requirements listed above, applicants under 18 years of age must present proof of the following: All applicants under 18 years of age must have a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult present to sign the application and complete a Responsible Adult Affidavit; Completion of Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP); Satisfaction of school enrollment; see page 30 for requirements; For a Class D license or for a Class M Instructional Permit (MP) at age 16, proof of completion of a DDS-approved driver education program; For a Class D license or a Class M Instructional Permit (MP) at age 16, evidence of at least forty (40) hours of supervised driving, six of which must be at night. Additional details concerning these requirements can be found on pages 30-32 of this manual or on our website at dds.georgia.gov. Previous Licenses, Instructional Permits or Identification Cards In most cases, when applying for renewal, replacement or transfer of any license, instructional permit, or identification card (ID Card) previously issued in Georgia or any other state or foreign jurisdiction, customers must surrender, the previously-issued license/permit/ID to DDS. In some cases, surrender of all valid licenses/permits/ID cards will be required. Most non-citizen customers with a valid out of country driver's license, permit, or ID, may retain their out of country document upon issuance of a Georgia-equivalent document. U.S. citizens will not be allowed to retain any licenses, permits, or identification cards issued to them by foreign countries. Vision Requirements Customers for initial issuance of a driver's license must demonstrate the ability to meet minimum vision requirements. The minimum acceptable vision for a non-commercial license is 20/60 in one eye, with or without corrective lenses, and a horizontal field of vision of at least 140 degrees. If you are unable to pass the vision screening administered at the DDS Customer Service Center, you will be given a Vision Report Form (DS-274) which must be completed by a licensed optometrist or opthalmologist and submitted to DDS. The completed form will be evaluated to determine if you are eligible to obtain a driver's license. This form may also be used to document the need for bioptic lenses for driving and is available on our website, dds.georgia.gov. 6 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 1 SECTION : GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION If you must wear glasses or contacts to pass your initial vision screening, a corrective lenses restriction will be placed on your license when it is issued. Each time you complete a transaction, you will be required to indicate whether you require glasses or contacts for driving. If your answer differs from the response in our records, you may be required to complete another vision screening or submit a current DS-274 for verification. Customers age 64 and over must successfully complete a vision screening every eight years. Customers who have obtained a license with a bioptic lenses restriction must provide updated medical information to the Department every two years. Classes of Licenses The issuance of licenses and permits in Georgia is based on their categorization by Class. The various classes are associated with the types of vehicles that may be driven and the restrictions that apply to operation of those vehicles. Listed below are the non-commercial classes used in Georgia, along with a description of their purpose. Pursuant to House Bill 136 (2017), threewheel autocycles will not require a Class M Motorcycle Operator's License. Autocycles are defined as three-wheel motor vehicles that are equipped with a steering wheel and not handlebars. DDS will not administer road tests that involve the use of an autocycle. Georgia also issues Class A, B, and C commercial licenses. Information concerning these licenses is included in the Georgia Commercial Drivers Manual, available at all DDS Customer Service Centers and on our website at dds.georgia.gov. Fees/Forms of Payment The fees for obtaining non-commercial driver's licenses, permits, and ID cards in person are listed below. This fee schedule is not adjusted to reflect the $5.00 discount for those who choose to renew online or via DDS 2 Go. All DDS Customer Service Centers accept cash, Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards with a bank logo, and Discover and American Express credit cards and mobile pay options. We do not accept checks, money orders, or cashier checks. License, permit and ID card holders are allowed one free name or address change per issuance term. Other changes can also be made at the time of the free name or address change at no charge. Any subsequent modifications require a full renewal at regular cost. Name changes must be in accordance with the requirements listed on page 20. A replacement driver's license, permit or ID card is a duplicate of the replaced document (no modifications or changes) and may be provided at a cost of $5.00 per occurrence. The replacement license/permit/ID card will expire on the original expiration date. However, if a replacement is requested within 150 days of the original expiration date (or within 30 days of the original expiration date for a motorcyle instructional permit), the license/permit/ID must be renewed for a new term at full cost. License Restrictions When issuing a driver's license, DDS is authorized to impose restrictions on your driver's license, whenever there is good cause, to assure the safe operation of a motor vehicle. Any restrictions imposed will appear on your driver's license. If no restrictions are imposed, the letter "A" will appear in the License Restrictions area on your license. The chart to the right lists the restriction codes used by DDS. Licenses may be issued with multiple restriction codes. NON-COMMERCIAL CLASSES Class Purpose Non-commercial license for drivers age 18 and older. (Also for C drivers new to Georgia who are age 17 and who hold a valid Class C equivalent from another state.) D Provisional license issued to drivers ages 16 and 17. M License for motorcycle operators. Non-commercial license for drivers who operate commercial motor vehicles and who are E, F exempt from commercial licensing requirements. (Effective 1/1/2015, Class E & F licenses are free for volunteer firefighters.) CP, MP, EP, FP All instructional permits are issued with the class designation followed by the letter "P." LICENSE, PERMIT, AND IDENTIFICATION CARD FEES Type Term Fee Driver's License (Class A, B, C, E, F, and M) 8 yr $32 Driver's License (Class E and F) for Volunteer Firefighters 8 yr No Fee Provisional License (Class D) 5yr $10 Instructional Permit (Class A, B, C and M) 6 mth $10 Replacement Duplicate License/Permit/ID Card* Original Expiration Date $5 National Guard License 8 yr No Fee Veteran License (Combat Veteran) 8 yr No Fee Veteran License (Non-Combat) Class A, B, C and M 8 yr $32 Honorary License 8 yr No Fee Controlled Substance Permit Up to 3 yr $25 Habitual Violator Probationary License Up to 3 yr $210 Limited Permit Up to 1 yr $25 Georgia ID Card 8 yr $32 Georgia ID Card for Voting Purposes Only (must provide proof of valid voter registration) 8 yr No Fee HVPL/Limited Permit Replacement Original Term $20 Limited Permit Renewal Equal to Original Term of Permit $5 Veteran ID Card (Combat Veteran) 8 yr No Fee Veteran ID Card (Non-Combat Veteran) 8 yr $32 Handicap ID Card 8 yr $5 Address or Name Change Original Expiration Date Free Once per Term *If a replacement license/permit/ID card is requested within 150 days of the original date, the license/permit/ID card must be renewed for a new term at full cost. 8 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 1 SECTION : GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION Expired License To renew a driver's license that has been expired more than two years, you must pass a vision test, a driving test, and an exam to test your knowledge of road signs and road rules. You must also meet Secure ID documentation requirements if you have not already done so. See pages 10-11 for more information about Secure ID requirements. Carrying and Displaying Your License You must have an appropriate driver's license or permit in your possession while operating a motor vehicle in the State of Georgia. If stopped while driving, you must display your driver's license/permit to any law enforcement officer upon his or her request. DDS License Restriction Codes A no restrictions B corrective lenses required C vehicle mechanical aids required D prosthetic aids required E no manual transmission equipped CMV F right exterior mirror required G daylight hours only H employer vehicle only I left exterior mirror required J automatic transmission required K intrastate commerce only L no air brake equipped CMV M no class A passenger buses N no class A or B passenger buses O no tractor trailer CMV P no passengers in CMV bus Q no passengers allowed R no highway/interstate S power brakes or steering required T accompanied by disabled parent U accompanied by visually impaired parent V medical variance W valid farm waiver required X no cargo in CMV tank vehicle Y hearing aid required Z no full air brake 1 bioptic lenses required 2 Pursuant to Court Order 3 Ignition Interlock Device restrictions apply 4 HPVL restrictions apply, no interlock 5 business purpose only 6 to and from medical only 7 to and from school only 8 Ignition Interlock required 9 limited permit, no interlock 9 1 SECTION : GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION SECURE ID DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS IF STOPPED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT... The following are examples of acceptable documents to bring with you to be issued a Secure ID. Identity Document - An original or certified document to prove WHO YOU ARE such as an original or certified Birth Certificate, US Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, I-551, etc. Your Social Security Card. (A W-2, SSA-1099, or paystub may also be used but must show your full social security number) Two Documents showing Georgia residence (e.g. utility bill, phone bill). Name Change - If your name is currently different than the "identity document" presented (such as birth certificate, passport, etc), you must provide a certified copy with seal; legal name change document (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.). NOTE: Document required even if your name is correct on current license/id. Minor's may present passport; however, proof of guardianship requires original/certified birth certificate or certified court ordered documents. Original immigration documentation must be submitted each time service is requested pertaining to a driver's license or identification card. Gender Change - A gender update requires applicants to submit a court order or physician's letter certifying gender change. The letter or court order shall state the person's name, date of birth, date of gender reassignment operation and other identifying information. To assist with collecting your documents, DDS has created a Checklist Wizard at www.dds.georgia.gov that will allow you to print a custom checklist of your documents, or you may choose to print the full list of acceptable documents. Once you are issued a Secure ID with a star in the upper right corner, you should be eligible to conduct future transactions without visiting a center. Download the DDS app, DDS 2 GO, for free to have a licensing office in your pocket! Important Notice: Beginning October 1, 2020, you will need a Secure ID/Real ID compliant card (with a star in the right corner) to fly within the U.S. or enter federal buildings or nuclear power plant www.dhs.gov. Pull to the nearest/safest spot out of traffic, use your turn signal, and remember SAFETY. S - Stay calm and remain in the vehicle (unless instructed otherwise). Keep your seat belt fastened, and roll the window down completely. A - Always keep both hands visible to the officer. Driver's hands should be on the steering wheel. Turn on interior lights if stopped at night. E - Explanations can be made in court, not on the road side. Do NOT argue with the officer. T - Tell the officer where your documents (i.e. driver's license, proof of insurance, and vehicle registration) are located. Take out your documents only after the officer's request. F Focus on the officer. Turn off the radio, put down any mobile devices, and be courteous even if you disagree. Y - You should NOT make sudden moves or threatening gestures. Inform the officer if there is a weapon in the vehicle and where. Do NOT reach for the weapon. Things You Should Know If the officer is not in uniform or does not have a marked patrol car, you should ask for identification. Signing the citation is NOT an admission of guilt. It only means that you received a citation for a violation. The officer may approach the Any refusal to sign the driver's side or passenger citation could result in you side of the vehicle. Do being arrested and taken to not be alarmed; he or jail to post a bond. she will approach in the safest manner. You will be given a court date to argue your case. If you receive a citation in Georgia, you will be asked to sign it. You should not discard your copy of the citation. 10 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 2 SECTION OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD This Section Covers Current Georgia Residents................................... 12 Class CP Instructional Permit............................... 12 Class D Provisional License................................. 12 Class C License.................................................... 12 State ID Card.......................................................... 13 Other License Types............................................. 14 Commercial Driver's License............................... 14 Motorcycle Operator's License............................ 14 Licenses for Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and their Spouses.................................... 14 National Guard License........................................ 14 New Georgia Residents........................................ 14 CURRENT GEORGIA RESIDENTS Class C Instructional Permit (CP) For first-time issuance of a Class C Instructional Permit (CP), you must meet all requirements to obtain a Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. See pages 10-11 for complete requirements. Obtaining a Class C Instructional Permit (CP) Upon reaching age 15, or anytime thereafter, you may apply for a Class C Instructional Permit (CP). The following information will help you prepare for your visit to a DDS Customer Service Center: You will be required to present documents verifying your identity, U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, and Georgia residency as explained on See pages 10-11; You must present proof of your Social Security Number or your ineligibility to obtain a Social Security Number. See page 10 for a list of acceptable documents; If you are under age 18, you will be required to present proof of school enrollment; see page 30 for requirements; If you are under age 18, a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult will have to sign the application, thereby giving their consent for you to obtain a permit. The individual who signs your application may, for any reason, revoke your permit until you reach the age of 18; You will be required to pass a vision test. Your eyes will be tested by means of a mechanical device; You will be required to pass a knowledge exam related to Road Signs and Road Rules. Please refer to page 16 for more information related to the knowledge exam; The test fee is $10.00 and must be paid prior to testing. If any part of the test is failed, no refund will be issued. The permit fee must be paid prior to every testing attempt. Conditions of a Class C Instructional Permit (CP) Once issued a Class C Instructional Permit (CP), you may operate any Class C vehicle when accompanied by a person at least 21 years of age who is licensed to drive a Class C vehicle, who is fit and capable of exercising control over the vehicle, and who is occupying a seat beside the driver; Class C Instructional Permits (CP) are valid for up to 2 years. Class D Provisional License For first-time issuance of a Class D License, you must meet all requirements to obtain a Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. See pages 10-11 for complete requirements. Obtaining a Class D Provisional License Upon reaching the age of 16, and after having held a valid instructional permit for one year and one day, you may apply for a Class D Provisional License. The following information will help you prepare for your visit to a DDS Customer Service Center: You will need to make a road test appointment (see page 16); You must surrender your Class C Instructional Permit (CP) or affirm on your application that you are unable to surrender the permit. See pages 19-20 for details concerning lost licenses and permits; You will be required to present proof of school enrollment; see page 30 for requirements; You must present proof of completion of the Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP). This program is taught in most schools, and is also available online. For information about ADAP, you may visit dds.georgia.gov; A parent, legal guardian or responsible adult will have to sign the application, thereby giving their consent for you to obtain a license. The individual who signs your application may, for any reason, revoke your license until you reach the age of 18; You must pass a road test designed to evaluate your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. See pages 16-17 for more information related to the Road Test; You must satisfy the driver education requirements listed below. (NOTE: Teens with parents active in the U.S. Military can use an out of state driver's education certificate provided that it is within 9 months of their 16th birthday.) Driver Education Requirements To obtain a Class D license at the age of 16 you must complete a driver education course approved by DDS. An approved driver education course consists of: either 30 hours of classroom instruction OR completion of an equivalent online virtual course; AND 6 hours of on-the-road experience with a certified instructor OR completion of the DDS approved Parent-Teen Driving Guide; You must also have completed a cumulative total of at least 40 hours of other driving experience, including at least 6 hours at night. An affidavit must be signed certifying that this requirement has been met. NOTE if the teen obtains the on-the-road component of driver's education from a certified instructor, a separate document affirming that this requirement has been met must be completed at the time of the road test. If you have not completed the driver education requirements, you cannot obtain a Class D license until you reach the age of 17. For information on approved driver education courses and to download the ParentTeen Driving Guide, see the DDS website, dds.georgia.gov. Conditions of a Class D Provisional License A Class D license holder may not drive between the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. - NO EXCEPTIONS; During the first six months following issuance, only immediate family members may ride in the vehicle. `Immediate family member' includes the driver's parents and step-parents, grandparents, siblings and stepsiblings, children, and any other person who resides at the driver's residence; During the second six months following issuance, only one passenger under 21 years of age who is not a member of the driver's immediate family may ride in the vehicle; After the first and second six-month periods, only three passengers under 21 years of age who are not members of the driver's immediate family may ride in the vehicle; A Class D license holder must, for the 12 months preceding application for their Class C license, be free from any convictions for major traffic violations that result in the mandatory suspension of a driver's license. 12 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 2 SECTION : OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD Class C License For first-time issuance of a Class C License, you must meet all requirements to obtain a Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. See page 10 for requirements. NEED A PEACH PASS? Register for one today at www.peachpass.com Obtaining a Class C License Exchanging a Class D license A Class D license holder may apply for a Class C license upon reaching the age of 18. The applicant must have held a valid Class D license until the age of 18, or for one year and one day, without having been convicted of any major traffic violations in the 12 months preceding his/her application. Upon surrender of the Class D license or affirmation on the application that the customer is unable to surrender the license, the applicant will be issued a Class C license at the cost of $32 for an 8 year license. No other documentation or testing is required for U.S. citizens. See pages 19-20 for details concerning lost licenses and permits. Obtaining a Class C License Exchanging a Class C Instructional Permit (CP) A Class C Instructional Permit (CP) holder may apply for a Class C license only if he or she has reached the age of 18. To obtain a Class C license, you must surrender your previously issued Class C Instructional Permit (CP) or affirm on your application that you are unable to surrender the permit. You must also pass a road test designed to evaluate your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. See pages 1-16 for more information related to the road test. Upon surrender of the Class C Instructional Permit (CP) or affirmation on the application that you are unable to surrender the permit, you will be issued a Class C license at the cost of $32 for a 8 year license. You must sign an affidavit verifying that you have completed 40 hours of supervised road driving which includes 6 hours of night driving. See pages 19-20 for details concerning lost licenses and permits. Obtaining a Class C License Applicant Is Not Currently Licensed If you are at least 18 years of age and would like to apply for a driver's license in Georgia for the first time, you have two options: Immediately apply for a Class C Driver's License. You must meet all documentation requirements listed on pages 10-11, and successfully complete the knowledge and road test examinations (see pages 16-17). You must also sign an affidavit affirming that you have completed 40 hours of supervised road driving which includes 6 hours of night driving; Apply for a Class C Instructional Permit (CP), which allows you to obtain practical driving experience under the supervision of a licensed driver. If you would like more information related to a Class C Instructional Permit (CP), please see page 12. There's a time to check whether your kid's in the right car seat. This isn't it. Car crashes are a leading killer of children 1 to 13. Is your child in the right car seat? Don't think you know. Know you know. safercar.gov/TheRightSeat 13 2 SECTION : OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD State ID Card Wartime/Conflict Periods For first-time issuance of a State ID Card, you must meet all requirements to obtain a Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. See page 10 for requirements. A State of Georgia ID Card may be obtained at any DDS Customer Service Center. The cost of this card varies depending on the type of card obtained. An 8-year ID card is $32; All previous ID cards must be surrendered; If you no longer have possession of your previous driver's license/ID card/permit to surrender, you must provide a certified copy of your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), from the previous state. Upon submission of a referral from a DDSapproved non-profit agency, the applicant will be permitted to obtain an ID card at a cost of $5.00. A special ID card for persons with permanent disabilities is available for a term of eight years at a cost of $5.00. A card for persons with temporary disabilities is also available for a term of six (6) months at a cost of $5.00. This card serves as proof of the need for special transportation services, seating accommodations, and other facilities for the handicapped. Verification from a licensed physician may be required to obtain a permanent Handicap ID, and is always required to obtain or extend a temporary Handicap ID. The fee for this card is waived for those who meet the qualifications listed on this page for a veteran's driver's license. Customers can also have the handicap symbol placed on any other type of license, permit, or identification card. Customers have the option to include certain medical information on the back of their card as well. This information is also available at our website, dds.georgia.gov. A voter registration ID is also available at no cost for any individual who swears under oath that the ID is needed in order to vote in an election in Georgia. All applicants for ID cards must provide proof of identity, proof of U.S. Citizenship or lawful presence, proof of Social Security Number or ineligibility for a Social Security Number, and proof of Georgia residency. See pages 10-11 for further information concerning these requirements. Other License Types Commercial Driver's License Detailed information concerning licensing requirements for Commercial Driver's Licenses can be found in the Commercial Drivers Manual as well as on the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. Motorcycle Operator's License Detailed information concerning licensing requirements for Motorcycle Operator's Licenses can be found in the Motorcycle Operators Manual as well as on the DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. World War I April 6, 1917 through November 11, 1918. The period for a veteran who served with the U.S. Military forces in Russia would include April 6, 1917, through April 1, 1920. World War II December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946. Korea June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955. Lebanon Conflict July 1, 1958 through November 1, 1958. Berlin Conflict August 14, 1961 through June 1, 1963. Vietnam July 1, 1958 through May 7, 1975. Dominican Republic Conflict April 28, 1965 through September 21, 1966. Grenada Conflict October 23, 1983 through November 21, 1983. Panama Liberation December 30, 1989 through February 15, 1990. Saudi Arabia/ Iraq/Kuwait/ Persian Gulf August 2, 1990 - ending date unknown at this time. Licenses for Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces and their Spouses Veteran's License Important: Please read carefully. The veteran must obtain the Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516) from the State Department of Veterans Service to obtain a Veterans license. Applicants must meet the following requirements for eligibility of a veteran's license: Visit the nearest office of the State Department of Veterans Service and present evidence of honorable, active duty service in the Armed Forces of the United States or evidence of a minimum of twenty years of service in the National Guard. All this information is on your copy of the Armed Forces separation papers (Form DD-214). Activation for training purposes does not qualify you for the Georgia Veteran's License. The qualified veteran will be issued a Certificate of Eligibility (DS-516), signed by the veteran and the certifying official from the State Department of Veterans Service; The original certificate (DS-516) may then be presented by the veteran to any DDS Customer Service Center along with any other documentation needed to prove identity, lawful presence, and residency for issuance of the license (see pages 10-11). Veterans who have served during a period of active conflict are eligible for a free veteran's license/ID card. The State Department of Veterans Service will denote active conflict on the DS-516; Successfully pass a vision test for the initial issuance of a Class C veteran's license. To obtain any other class of license, you must successfully complete examinations for the class of license desired. Honorary License NO FEE The spouse of a disabled, honorably sepa- rated veteran who does not have a driver's license, or the unmarried surviving spouse of a deceased honorably separated veteran, is entitled to the same license available to the veteran. An applicant for this type of license must meet the same requirements as those required for a veteran's license. For the unmarried surviving spouse, the death certificate along with the DD214 must be submitted to the State Department of Veterans Service to obtain a Certificate of Eligibility. Veterans must have served on active duty during one of the periods of conflict (see chart above) or must have served at least 20 years in the National Guard to qualify for a Veteran's License or for a spouse to qualify for an Honorary License. National Guard License A distinctive license may be issued to any member of the Georgia National Guard in good standing who has completed at least one year of satisfactory service. A Certificate of Eligibility (DS-318) form must be obtained from the local National Guard Commanding Officer and presented to any DDS Customer Service Center. This license is renewable during the time of service in the National Guard or until 20 years of service has been obtained, at which time the person will be entitled to a Veteran's License. The form DS-318 must be presented to the DDS upon every renewal of a National Guard license. New Georgia Residents General Information You must apply for a Georgia driver's license or permit within 30 days of becoming a Georgia resident if you wish to drive upon the highways of this state. Please see page 6 for more informa- 14 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 2 SECTION : OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD tion about requirements to obtain a license or permit and exemptions for certain individuals. New Georgia Resident Without a Valid License or Permit Issued by Another State Please see the appropriate chapter of this manual for obtaining a license or permit for the first time in Georgia. Under 18 see Teen Licensing Requirements on pages 3032; 18 or Older see Obtaining a Class C license Applicant Not Currently Licensed on page 12. Transferring from Another State or District of Columbia Under Age 18 with valid out of state license or permit If you hold a valid driver's license or instructional permit issued by any other state of the United States or by the District of Columbia, you will normally be eligible to obtain a comparable license or permit issued by Georgia. However, the state of issuance may have requirements for teenage drivers that differ from Georgia. For more information, please call the Customer Contact Center at (678) 413-8400. 18 or Older with a valid out of state license or permit Surrender a valid license issued by another state or territory of the United States or by the District of Columbia (expired less than 2 years). If you are unable to surrender a valid driver's license, you must present a certified Motor Vehicle Report/Driving History from the state of issuance, dated within 30 days, showing your status as valid. Non-citizens are not required to surrender their foreign non-commercial license or permit; Be at least 18 years of age, or 17 years of age if surrendering a valid license equivalent to a Georgia Class C license with no time, route, purpose or passenger restrictions; Your Social Security Number will be verified with the Social Security Administration. You must present proof of your Social Security Number. See page 10 for further details; Provide proof of identity. For a complete list of acceptable documents, see page 10; Provide proof of citizenship or lawful presence in the United States (see page 10). All documents must be originals or certified copies. Faxed copies will not be accepted; Provide two documents to prove Georgia residency. For a complete list of acceptable documents, see pages 10-11. Pass a vision test. Transferring a License/Permit/ID From Another Country or U.S. Territory If you do not have the out of country license/ permit/ID in your possession, you must pro- vide a Motor Vehicle Report/Driving History (printed in English) dated within the last 30 days, from the country of license issuance; Most non-citizen customers with a valid out of country driver's license, permit, or ID may retain their out of country document upon issuance of a Georgia-equivalent document. U.S. citizens will not be allowed to retain any licenses, permits, or identification cards issued to them by foreign countries; Successfully complete the knowledge, road, and vision exams; Present mandatory documents to prove identity, citizenship or lawful presence, Social Security Number, and residency. See pages 10-11 for the complete list; If under the age of 18, additional requirements will apply. Please see pages 3032 for more details on teen licensing requirements; Licenses, permits and IDs issued outside the District of Columbia or any other state of the United States are non-transferable. A customer holding any document issued outside of the 50 States or District of Columbia must complete the full process for issuance of a new document in Georgia, including all tests required for the class being requested, if applicable. Citizens of certain foreign countries may be exempt from knowledge and skills testing. For a list, visit dds.georgia.gov. DANGER ALL DMVs are not Alike!!! Beware of fake DMV websites that charge for training materials or informational material. Most customers arrive at these sites by doing a browser search for "Georgia DMV," "Georgia License Renewal" or similar generic searches. Please read the pages of these sites carefully, because by law they are required to inform users that the site is not affiliated with any State or Government Entity. They are privately owned sites that will have .com or .org at the end of their website address (url). The official state of Georgia websites will have .gov as is the case with www.dds.georgia.gov. DDS partners with www.eregulations.com to provide the electronic version of the GA Driver's Manuals at no cost to customers. www.eregulations.com 15 3 SECTION TESTING INFORMATION This Section Covers Knowledge Exam.................................................. 16 Road Signs........................................................... 16 Road Rules........................................................... 16 Road Test............................................................... 16 Making Road Test Reservations.......................... 16 Road Test for Class C or D................................... 16 Road Test for Class M.......................................... 17 Road Test for Class E and F Non-Commercial............................................... 17 Road Test for Class A, B, and C Commercial....... 17 Results of Pass/Fail............................................. 17 Knowledge Exam Knowledge exams are given on a walk-in basis at every DDS Customer Service Center statewide. To ensure that an applicant has adequate time to complete the knowledge exam, customers must begin taking the written test at least 30 minutes prior to closing. Please check the hours of operation before you visit on our website at dds.georgia.gov. We offer special assistance for customers with reading disabilities and hearing impairment. Please visit your local CSC to schedule an appointment for an oral exam or to schedule an interpreter for the hearing impaired. The road rules tests are available in some non-English languages, but all drivers must show ability to read and understand simple English such as is used in highway traffic and directional signs. Road signs and the actual driving test are conducted in English only. These basic rules must be followed while a knowledge exam is being given: You may not bring pens, pencils, paper, or any other items into the testing area; All cell phones, text messaging devices, and other types of wireless devices are prohibited in the testing area; You may not speak to anyone during the test other than the examiner administering the test. Any violation of these rules is considered misconduct. If misconduct occurs during the administration of the knowledge exam, the exam session will be counted as a failure. The questions on the knowledge exam pertain to topics discussed in this manual and consist of the following components: Road Signs A set of questions on the meaning of standard highway signs will be given. This test is given in English only. You will be asked to identify certain signs, signals and markers. You must correctly answer 15 out of 20 questions to pass. You may take a practice test at dds.georgia.gov. Road Rules The road rules test consists of a set of ques- tions about driver responsibility, knowledge of laws, and safe driving practices applicable to the class of license for which you are applying. You must correctly answer 15 out of 20 questions to pass. You may take a practice test at dds.georgia.gov. Road Test Making Road Test Reservations The Road Skills Test is administered by appointment only. Appointments allow us to maximize our resources and to serve all of our customers more efficiently. When all testing slots have not been reserved, an appointment may be available for same day service. To make an appointment, please visit DDS Online Services at dds.georgia.gov. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Drivers may perform the skills test in vehicles equipped with advanced driver assistance technology. However, the applicant must demonstrate their ability to operate the vehicle without such technology. Road Test For Class C or D DDS will only administer a Class C or D road test in a four-wheel vehicle; You must provide the vehicle for the road test; All road test vehicles must have a valid registration/license plate, or if equipped with a temporary dealership tag, the applicant must provide the bill of sale for proof of purchase within the last 30 days (7 days if the vehicle is purchased from a third party); All road test vehicles must be covered by liability insurance (you must show a valid insurance card or Motor Vehicle registration card that shows the VIN) and pass a safety inspection; If the vehicle is not equipped with illuminated turn signals, you must be able to pass the road test using hand signals; You may take the test in a rental vehicle. Please be advised that many rental agreements do not allow vehicle use for driver training or testing. Additionally, you must meet the following conditions: You must provide a copy of the rental contract (the contract will be reviewed to determine if testing is allowed); You must be listed as a driver on the rental contract; You must provide proof of valid insurance for the vehicle. The driving test will not be conducted if weather conditions or any other conditions are determined to be unsafe for the driver or examiner. DDS will make every effort to ensure that impacted customers are rescheduled as soon as possible. For the driving test you will be expected to demonstrate your ability to do all of the following: Parallel Parking: Park midway between two standards so that your car is not more than 18 inches from the curb. The standard parallel parking dimensions utilized in the driver's license test are 22 feet in length by 10 feet in depth; Straight Line Backing: Back your car for a distance of approximately 50 feet at a slow rate of speed (not more than 10 miles per hour) as straight and as smoothly as possible. You must turn your head and look behind the vehicle while backing. No boundary lines should be encroached; Stop for Signs or Traffic Signals: Give the proper hand or brake signal; approach in the proper lane; stop before reaching a pedestrian crosswalk and remain stopped until all pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk on the side of the roadway upon which you are traveling; move through the intersection only when you may do so safely; Turn About: Turn your car in a narrow space using a three-point turn; Use of Clutch: If your car has a manual transmission, you must shift smoothly and correctly; Approaching Intersections and Corners: You must be in the proper lane and look in both directions; Yielding Right-of-Way: Always yield rightof-way to pedestrians, vehicle operators, and bicyclists who move into the intersection before you by stopping and remaining stopped until they have cleared the intersection; Turning: Move into the proper lane and signal an adequate distance before the turn; 16 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 3 SECTION : TESTING INFORMATION Passing: Always check in front of and behind your vehicle to make sure you can safely pass without interfering with other traffic; Following: Do not follow other cars too closely. Follow at a safe distance from the vehicle in front of you in order to maintain control of the vehicle in case of any emergency situation or abrupt stops or turns; Maintaining Good Posture: Keep both hands on the steering wheel. Do not rest your elbow on the window and do not attempt to carry on a conversation with the examiner because he/she will be busy giving instructions and recording your score. At the end of the Class C/D road test, the license examiner will gladly show you your score sheet and will provide you an opportunity to discuss the results if you wish to do so. You must achieve a minimum score of 75% to pass. Road Test For Class M You must furnish a motorcycle for the test and pass a safety inspection of the motorcycle by the license examiner before the driving test is given. All road test vehicles must have a valid registration/license plate or if equipped with a temporary dealership tag, the applicant must provide the bill of sale for proof of purchase within the last 30 days. Motorcycle operator testing information is covered in the Motorcycle Operators Manual, which is available at all DDS Customer Service Centers and online at dds.georgia.gov. For more information, you may contact the Motorcycle Safety Program at (678) 413-8400 in the metro Atlanta area. If you hold a motorcycle permit, you may schedule a motorcycle skills test appointment by calling (678) 413-8400. Motorcycle road tests cannot be conducted when the weather conditions make it unsafe for the driver or examiner, including when it is raining or when the pavement is damp. Road Test For Class E and F Non-Commercial There is no driving test for Classes E & F Non-Commercial; however, you must present an Application for Issuance of Non-Commercial E/F License (DS-36), establishing your ability to operate vehicles within the particular class, and pass a knowledge test for that particular class. You must also possess or be eligible to obtain a Class C Driver's License. Class E & F licenses are available to volunteer firefighters at no charge. Customers who wish to take the non commercial Class E/F exam should study the Commercial Drivers Manual. The Commercial Drivers Manual can be located online at dds.georgia.gov or customers can obtain a hard copy at any DDS Customer Service Center. Road Test For Class A, B, and C Commercial Commercial vehicle operator's testing information is covered in the Georgia Commercial Drivers Manual, which is available at all DDS Customer Service Centers and online at dds.georgia.gov. You may schedule a Commercial skills test appointment by calling (678) 413-8400. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 40-5-25 and DDS Rule 1-1-.09(7), the $50.00 Commercial Driver's Li- cense (CDL) Road Skills Test fee is now required for each testing attempt. Results of Pass/Fail If you pass all the tests, you will be issued a temporary license/permit. Your permanent license/permit will be mailed to you when all other requirements are met. If for any reason you do not receive your driver's license/permit within 30 days of meeting all requirements, contact DDS at (678) 413-8400 or visit your local DDS Customer Service Center. If you fail any part of the knowledge or road test, and it is your: 1st Failure: You must wait until the next day before retaking the portion you have failed. 2nd or Subsequent Failure: You must wait 7 days before retaking the portion you have failed. ! Falling asleep at stop lights ! Yawning, rubbing eyes, watery eyes, heavy eyelids ! Difficulty remembering the last few miles driven ! Missing road signs or exits ! Unplanned lane changes ! Head nodding or dropping ! Driving off the road or hi > F A S T E R S E C U R E C O N V E N I E N T 2 4 / 7 P l e a s e r e m e m b e r t o b r i n g y o u r p a r e n t o r g u a r d i a n a n d p r o o f o f s c h o o l e n r o l l m e n t w h e n y o u c o m e i n f o r y o u r v i s i t . 53 10 SECTION : LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES The Points System The Department is required by law to suspend the Georgia license of an individual for an accumulation of points resulting from certain convictions. Points are assessed against Georgia residents for out-of-state violations which would be assessed points if committed within Georgia. Georgia licenses will be suspended as follows: For any person who accumulates 15 or more points within 24 months; For any person under the age of 21 with a conviction for any 4-point violation; For any person under 18 years of age with an accumulation of 4 points within twelve months. Points are accumulated on a person's driving record as a result of certain convictions. The adjacent chart lists these convictions and the number of points associated with each. The date the violation occurred is used as the basis for determining the 24-month period (or 12-month period for persons under age 18). When a license is suspended due to an accumulation of points, the point total is restored to zero. In the case of a person age 18 up to 21, the suspension of the license for a single 4-point offense is determined by the date the conviction occurred. A plea of nolo contendere is considered a conviction for purposes of imposing suspensions that apply to persons under age 21. Points Reduction Licensed Georgia residents may request that DDS reduce the number of points assessed against their Georgia driver's license up to 7 points once every 5 years. To qualify for a points reduction, you must successfully complete a certified 6-hour driver improvement (defensive driving) course and present the original certificate of completion to the DDS by mail or in person at one of our Customer Service Centers. If you request a points reduction by mail, please mail the original driver improvement (defensive driving) certificate of completion to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, P.O. Box 80447, Conyers, Georgia 30013. A list of certified driver improvement (defensive driving) courses can be found at the following link: https://online.dds.ga.gov/ddsgeorgiagov/ locations/driver-improvement-schools. aspx. Points Avoidance A defendant may successfully complete a certified 6-hour driver improvement (defensive driving) course after the issuance of a citation for a moving violation and prior to the court appearance, or as ordered by the court. When the original certificate of completion is presented to the court, the court shall reduce the fine assessed by 20 percent and no points shall be assessed against the driver. This plea may be accepted by the court once every five years. Safety Responsibility Law The purpose of this law is to remove irresponsible drivers from Georgia highways and to protect insured motorists from uninsured motorists. In the event you should fail to satisfy a claim for damage resulting from a motor vehicle crash, and a claim is filed against you under the Safety Responsibility Law, you will receive an order suspending your license. To avoid the suspension, you may: Have your insurance carrier file Form SR-21 with the DDS if you were covered by liability insurance at the time of the crash; or File either a general or a conditional release that has been signed by the claimant (injured party in the crash) with the DDS; or Post security to cover the damages with the DDS, which may be a cashier's check, certified check, money order, real property bond or surety bond, in addition to posting of financial responsibility, Form SR-22A. Any security or bond posted with the Department will be held for one year and thereafter until proof is furnished to the Department that you have not been sued as a result of the crash. You are entitled to a hearing, if desired, and if requested within ten (10) days of the receipt of the order of suspension. Mandatory Revocations Your driver's license will be revoked in Georgia if any of the following occur: You are declared a Habitual Violator based upon the third conviction of any combination of these offenses within 5 years: Driving under the Influence (DUI); Homicide by vehicle; Feticide by vehicle; Serious injury by vehicle; Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; Racing; Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer; Operating a motor vehicle with a suspended, canceled, or revoked registration; Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used; or Refusal to submit to a re-examination of driving skills or knowledge of driving rules after receiving notice giving reasonable grounds for such a request; If you have been declared incompetent or if there is sufficient evidence that you are unsafe to drive, due to mental health or physical disability or disease, or by alcohol or drug addiction. If you are declared a Habitual Violator, you may be eligible for a Probationary License after serving two years of the revocation period. Limited Driving Permits In some situations, a limited driving permit may be available for a fee of $25 during the sus- pension period. A limited driving permit would allow you to only: Drive to your place of employment; Receive scheduled medical attention or obtain prescribed drugs; Attend classes at a college or school in which you are enrolled as a student; Attend regularly scheduled sessions or meetings of support organizations for the treatment of alcohol or other drugs; Attend a driver education program or alcohol/drug assessment and treatment program; Attend court, report to a probation office or officer, or perform community service; Transport unlicensed immediate family members to work, medical care and to obtain prescriptions, and to school. The Department may also specify the places you may travel to, specific routes of travel, times of travel, and indicate vehicles, or other restrictions deemed necessary. Limited driving permits are not valid for driving a commercial vehicle. A limited driving permit will be revoked by the Department if you are convicted of violating any state law or local ordinance relating to the movement of vehicles or if you are convicted of violating any of the conditions or restrictions of your permit. In addition, a conviction will extend the underlying suspension of your driving privilege for an additional 6 months. Limited driving permits are not available for convictions of the following offenses or in the following situations: Implied Consent refusal (may be available if no prior DUI conviction within past 5 years); No Insurance convictions; Driving while license suspended convictions; Failure to pay super speeder fee; Failure to pay child support; Failure to appear in court or respond to a citation; Medical revocation; Safety responsibility; Parent requested revocation; DUI Drugs DUI convictions prior to age 21; and Refusal to weigh (CMV). A limited driving permit may be available in the following situations, depending on your age and the number of convictions on your driving record: 1st DUI (non-drugs); 2nd DUI conviction in 5 years; DUI ALS; Under 21 speeding violation but only if age 18 or older, speeding was 24-33 mph over the posted speed limit, and approved by the sentencing court judge; 54 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL 10 SECTION : LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES 1st or 2nd suspension for accumulation of 15 or more points within a 24 month period; 3rd controlled substance violation after a 2 year suspension and age 21 or over; Homicide by vehicle 2nd Degree (age 21 or over); Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used (age 21 or over); Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer (age 21 or over); Fraudulent or fictitious use of, or application for, a license/ID card (age 21 or over); Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash (age 21 or over); Racing (age 21 or over); Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration (age 21 or over); If approved by the sentencing Court Judge involving license suspensions for certain drug offenses In all cases, the Department will make the final determination of eligibility for a limited driving permit. Please contact DDS at 678-413-8400 for further information. Commercial Driving Disqualifications When commercial driving privileges are disqualified, the licensee is prohibited from operating a Commercial Motor Vehicle (CMV). Commercial driving privileges can be disqualified even if you do not have a commercial driver's license (CDL). If you do not have a CDL, but your commercial driving privileges are disqualified, you will not be eligible to obtain a CDL during the period of the disqualification. The commercial driving privileges can be withdrawn for: Conviction of a Major traffic violation; Conviction of two or more Serious traffic violations; Use of a CMV in the commission of any felony involving a controlled substance or marijuana (other than mere felony possession); Violation of an out-of-service order; or Conviction of a railroad grade crossing offense in a CMV. Major Traffic Violations The commercial driving privileges of any person convicted of one of the following "major traffic violations" in this state, or any other state, in a commercial or, unless otherwise specified, a noncommercial vehicle will be disqualified for one year: Driving a CMV if your BAC is .04 gm. or higher; DUI; Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash; Failure to report striking an unattended vehicle; Failure to report striking a fixed object; Failure to report a crash; Any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used; Driving a CMV while the CDL is revoked, suspended, canceled, or disqualified; Homicide by vehicle; Racing; Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting to elude an officer; Fraudulent or fictitious use of, or application for, a license/ID card; Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked, canceled, or suspended registration; Commercial vehicle cargo theft; or Refusal to submit to state administered chemical testing when requested by a law enforcement officer. If convicted of any of these offenses while you are operating a CMV that is placarded for hazardous materials, you will be disqualified from driving a CMV for at least three years for a first offense. A second conviction from a separate incident of any of these major traffic violations will result in a lifetime disqualification of commercial driving privileges. Serious Traffic Violations Your commercial driving privileges will be disqualified for a period of 60 days upon a second conviction in three years for a serious traffic violation (provided that the two convictions arose from separate incidents). Your commercial driving privileges will be disqualified for a period of 120 days upon a third or subsequent conviction in three years for a serious traffic violation (provided that the various convictions arose from separate incidents). The following violations are defined as "serious traffic violations" when committed in this state, or any other state, when operating either a CMV or, unless otherwise specified, a noncommercial motor vehicle: Speeding 15 or more miles per hour above the posted speed limit; Reckless driving; Following another vehicle too closely; Improper or erratic lane change, including failure to signal a lane change; A violation of state law or a local ordinance relating to motor vehicle traffic control arising in connection with a fatal crash, excluding parking, weight, length, height, and vehicle defect violations, and excluding homicide by vehicle; A railroad grade crossing violation in a noncommercial motor vehicle; Driving a commercial motor vehicle without obtaining a commercial drivers license; Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial drivers license in your immediate possession, but not if it is because your commercial driving privileges have been suspended, revoked, canceled, or disqualified; Driving a commercial motor vehicle without a commercial drivers license of the proper class and endorsements for the specific vehicle you are operating or for the passengers or type of cargo you are transporting; Use of a wireless device for text based communications while operating a commercial motor vehicle. Other Violations A felony conviction involving the manufacturing, distribution, trafficking or possession of a controlled substance or marijuana using a CMV (other than mere felony possession) will result in a lifetime disqualification of commercial driving privileges. Violation of an out-of-service order will result in a disqualification of: not less than 180 days and not more than one year for a 1st offense; not less than 2 years and not more than 5 years for a 2nd offense; and not less than 3 years and not more than 5 years for a 3rd or subsequent incidents. An additional disqualification period will apply when an out-of-service order is violated while transporting hazardous materials or transporting more than 15 passengers. Conviction of any railroad grade crossing offense while operating a CMV will also result in a disqualification of 60 days for a 1st offense up to 1 year for a third or subsequent violation within a 3 year period. 55 11 SECTION CRASHES This Section Covers If You Are Involved In A Crash............................. 56 Aiding the Injured................................................. 56 Moving Vehicles Following a Crash.................... 56 Deer-Automobile Crashes................................... 56 If You Are Involved In A Crash Stop immediately in a safe place. Notify the nearest law enforcement agency immediately if anyone is injured or killed, or if property damage exceeds $500.00; Provide reasonable assistance to any person injured; Warn approaching motorists if you can do so without jeopardizing your own safety or that of others. Activate your hazard lights, if possible, and use reflective triangles, when available; Give your name, address, license plate number, and driver's license number to anyone else who was involved in the crash. Get the same information from the other driver; If you damage an unattended vehicle, you must either locate the owner or leave your name, address, and the name of the owner of the vehicle you were driving, in a con spicuous place where the owner will find it. Aiding the Injured Do not assume that a person is not injured simply because that person says he/she is not. Send for professional help as soon as possible. Unskilled handling can cause further and more severe injuries. Do not move or lift the victim unless it is absolutely necessary. If the victim is moved, get help and try to maintain the victim in the position in which they were found. Stop serious bleeding with thick cloth pads, as clean as possible, applied with pressure by hand. Keep the victim warm. Cover the victim with blankets or coats, if necessary. Georgia has a Good Samaritan Law. This law holds any person harmless for civil damages arising as a result of any act or omission in rendering emergency care. Moving Vehicles Following a Crash When a traffic crash occurs on a multilane highway or expressway, and if there is no apparent serious injury or death, it is the duty of the drivers of the vehicles involved to move their vehicles from the roadway to a safe location along the shoulder, emergency lane, median, or any other safe refuge. Drivers should only do this if the vehicles are capable of being driven normally and successfully, and driving the vehicles will not present any further hazard or harm to the vehicles themselves, to the driver, to persons nearby, or to the roadway. If the persons involved in the crash are incapable of moving the vehicles, they are authorized to request any other driver in the vicinity who has a valid license of the appropriate class to move their vehicles, and the other driver is authorized to comply. Drivers who take these important steps will not be considered at fault simply because they moved the vehicles, nor does moving the vehicles affect their ability to file a written report with a local police agency. Moving a vehicle in this situation does not allow for the driver to be accused of failing to stop and provide information. Deer Automobile Crashes Each year, deer cause thousands of crashes in Georgia. Understanding common habits of deer and knowing what to do when a deer runs out in front of the car can help to avoid serious crashes. Automobile crash data from the Georgia Department of Transportation indicate that though deer-automobile crashes are on the rise, they still account for less than six percent of automobile crashes reported each year. It is important to remember that deer are wild animals and their actions are unpredictable. The deer you see calmly standing on the side of the road may bolt toward the road rather than away from it if startled by a car. Follow these guidelines to minimize the chances of a crash with a deer: In areas with known deer populations, drivers should constantly scan the road and road shoulders for deer movements and sightings; Always slow down when a deer crosses the road in front of you or another car. Deer usually travel in groups and it is likely that there is another one following closely behind; If a deer is spotted on the road or roadside at night, the driver should slow down immedi ately, blink his/her headlights and switch to low beam so as not to blind the deer; Also, short horn blasts may help scare the deer from the road. Should the deer or other animal run out in front of your car, slow down as much as pos sible to minimize the damage of a crash. Never swerve to avoid a deer. This action may cause you to strike another vehicle or leave the roadway, causing more damage or serious injuries. If you do have a crash, police should be alerted as soon as possible. Most insurance companies will require an accident report from the police before paying claims for this type of crash. Deer are usually seen along the roadside during the early morning hours and late eve ning. Drivers should be alert for deer during these peak hours. Deer are most active in the fall months of October, November and December during the peak breeding season. Late February and early March are also critical months for deercar crashes. During this period they concentrate along road shoulders to feed on new green food available following winter. However, deer are often spotted at midday during summer months. Therefore, it is important for drivers to remain cautious when traveling on rural roads or areas known to have a high deer population. 56 2019-2020 DRIVERS MANUAL The most up-to-date regulations online. Keeping teen drivers safer behind the wheel. The learning-to-drive process can be an exciting time for teens and their parents. AAA has everything you need to prepare your teen driver for a safe road ahead. Visit TeenDriving.AAA.com for more resources and information. 19-PR-0045 Keeping teen drivers safer behind the wheel. The learning-to-drive process can be an exciting time for teens and their parents. 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