South · Instructional Permit (Class CP)
How to get your learner’s permit in Georgia
Georgia’s Class CP instructional permit is available at 15. Under Joshua’s Law, teens must complete approved driver education and hold the permit one year and one day before a Class D license.
Georgia permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Instructional Permit (Class CP) |
| Supervised practice | 40 hours, including 6 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 12 months and 1 day |
| Issuing agency | Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Georgia?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 40 hours
- Waiting time
- 12 months and 1 day
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 30/100. Easiest in the South: Arkansas (#1) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? New Hampshire is the only state with no learner’s permit — teens practice at 15½ with a licensed adult, no paperwork first. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Georgia permit date · ⚔️ Compare Georgia with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Georgia
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Georgia driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Georgia’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Georgia residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Georgia requires 40 hours, including 6 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Georgia, that's 12 months and 1 day. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Good to know in Georgia
- Joshua’s Law requires an approved driver education course for 16-year-old applicants seeking a Class D license.
Georgia learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Georgia?
The minimum age is 15. Georgia calls this credential the Instructional Permit (Class CP).
How many supervised driving hours does Georgia require?
Georgia requires 40 hours, including 6 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Georgia?
The minimum holding period is 12 months and 1 day before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Georgia?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Georgia an easy state to get licensed in?
Georgia ranks #39 of 50 on our Ease Score (30/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.