Georgia Teen Drivers Ed: New Requirements for Teens

Getting your license is a huge milestone, and if you're a teen in Georgia, you probably can't wait to start driving. But before you can hit the road solo, there are rules you need to follow — and some of them just changed.

As of July 1, 2021, Georgia now requires both 16- and 17-year-olds to meet Joshua's Law requirementsTeen Drivers Joshuas Law Requirements Dds.georgia.gov. That means no shortcuts. You'll need coursework, behind-the-wheel training, and supervised practice to get your license.

It might sound like a lot, but don't worry. With the right game plan, you can check every box and be license-ready without stress.

Even If You're Feeling Overwhelmed…

Even if you think you don't have time, you can break drivers ed into smaller lessons that fit your schedule.

Even if you're nervous about the driving test, Aceable's practice quizzes and interactive lessons help you prep with confidence.

Even if you've never been behind the wheel before, step-by-step training ensures you build skills at your own pace.

You don't have to figure it out alone — we'll walk you through it.

How to Get Your License in Georgia: 5 Steps

1. Enroll in a Drivers Ed Course

At 15, you can start with a learner's permit, but first, you'll need to enroll in a DDS-approved drivers ed courseTeen Driving Dds.georgia.gov. This satisfies Joshua's Law's 30-hour education requirement. With Aceable, you can complete it online — anytime, anywhere — and take unlimited practice tests to get ready for your permit exam.

2. Get Your Instructional Permit (Learner's Permit)

Once you're prepared, schedule your test with the DDS or walk in. You'll need to pass two sections:

Road Rules Test (15/20 correct required)

Road Signs Test (15/20 correct required)

Pass both, and you'll officially have your permit.

3. Meet Joshua's Law Requirements

Once you have your permit, the next step is to ensure you've met Georgia's Joshua's Law requirementsJoshuas Law Requirements Dds.georgia.gov, which include: 

• Education: 30 hours of classroom or online instruction from a DDS-approved school. Drivers Ed

• Practice: Six hours of behind-the-wheel training at a DDS-approved school and 40 hours of practice with a parent/guardian. Alternatively, you can complete the Parent Teen Driving GuideDocument Publication 40 Hour Parent Teen Driver Guide Download Dds.georgia.gov which includes 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian. 

The 40 hours of behind-the-wheel practice must include six hours of nighttime driving. Remember, Joshua's Law requirements apply to both 16 AND 17-year-olds now (as of July 1, 2021). 

4. Meet the Time Requirement

Even if you complete your coursework and practice quickly, Georgia law requires you to hold your permit for at least one year and one day before you can apply for your provisional license.

5. Take and Pass the Driving Test

When you're at least 16 and have completed the requirements, it's time for your road test. To apply for your Class D Provisional Driver's License, you'll need:

Certificate of Completion from your drivers ed provider

Driving Experience Affidavit (DDS-7)Dds Forms And Manuals Dds Forms Teen Drivers Forms Dds.georgia.gov signed by your parent/guardian

Required DDS documentsTeen Drivers How Do I Class D Dds.georgia.gov (proof of ID, residency, etc.)

Schedule your road test with the DDS and aim for a passing score of 75% or higher.

FAQ: Georgia Teen Drivers Ed Requirements

Who has to meet Joshua's Law requirements?

As of July 1, 2021, both 16- and 17-year-olds must complete 30 hours of drivers ed and 40 hours of supervised driving (including 6 hours at night).

Can I take drivers ed online in Georgia?

Yes. Georgia allows online drivers ed through DDS-approved providersGeorgia Drivers Ed like Aceable. This satisfies the 30-hour education requirement.

How many hours of driving practice do I need?

You need 40 hours of supervised driving with a parent or guardian, plus 6 hours of nighttime driving. If you choose the Parent Teen Driving Guide, you can meet all practice requirements without a professional driving school.

How long do I have to hold my learner's permit?

You must hold your learner's permit for at least one year and one day before applying for your Class D Drivers License Dds.georgia.govClass D provisional license.

What score do I need to pass the road test?

You'll need at least a 75% to pass the road test and earn your provisional license.

Get Your Georgia Driver's License With Confidence

Turning 15 is the first step toward freedom, but getting licensed in Georgia takes preparation. With Aceable, you can meet Joshua's Law requirements online, practice at your own pace, and feel fully prepared for your tests.

Skip the classroom, learn on your phone, and turn drivers ed into something that works around your life — not against it. By the time you're ready for the road test, you'll feel confident, capable, and excited to earn that license.