Georgia's driver license renewal: have documents ready

Before you head down to the DDS to renew an expired driver's license, make sure you have the proper documentation to obtain a secured ID.

As a measure to further improve the security and integrity of Georgia's DL and ID cards and be fully compliant with the Federal Real ID Act of 2005, all existing customers that need to renew or reinstate a DL/ID beginning July 1, 2012 will be issued a Secure ID DL or ID card. 

The new rules are:

• You must visit a Customer Service Center in person on your first renewal, reinstatement or first issuance beginning July 1, 2012;
• You must provide an original or certified copy of your Birth Certificate or other proof of identity, and proof U.S. citizenship or lawful presence in the United States;
• You must provide your Social Security Card or other proof of full SSN. Previously, DDS was allowed to simply ask you for your SSN; and
• You must provide two different proofs of your residential address. Previously, DDS only required one proof of your residential address for your 1st DL or ID card.
• Additional documentation to verify lawful presence in the United States may be required if you are a non-citizen.
• Additional documentation may be required if you have had a legal name change.

For more information, go to http://www.b985.com/news/news/local/secure-drivers-license-id/nPWHN/.