VALDOSTA – Georgia Department of Driver Services recently began issuing new and more secure driver’s licenses and IDs at its Valdosta, Lowndes County, customer service center. 

DDS is adding locations until the new design is available statewide, state officials said. The cards are the most secure credentials that Georgia has issued. 

All previously issued Georgia licenses and IDs will remain valid until their expiration dates. Customers will be issued a newly designed card whether visiting in person or using the official mobile app DDS 2 GO.

As with the previous licensing process, a temporary license with photograph and barcode is issued to all customers, state official said. The temporary license is printed on 8.5 x 11, white, paper and is a synopsis of each customer’s service. 

State officials said it serves as proof of driving privileges until the permanent card arrives in approximately 30 days.

Customer fees for licenses and/or IDs will remain the same — an eight-year license or ID remains $32. Veteran, National Guard and other honorary licenses and IDs remain free to those who qualify. Younger than 21 cards remain horizontal and distinguishable from the older than 21 issuances, state officials said.

Customers are encouraged to download the official Mobile App DDS 2 GO.

“It’s like having a licensing center in your pocket,” state officials said. “If customers must visit in person, Tuesday is the busiest day statewide. The middle of the week, middle of the day, is the best time to visit for optimal wait times.”