What restrictions are lifted when you get Basic License in Georgia? What is the BAC limit for a full Georgia driver?

• DUI: 0.08% BAC in GeorgiaGeorgia's DUI limit is 0.08% BAC. Under 21: 0.02% limit still applies. Georgia has no administrative warn range — 0.08% goes straight to criminal DUI. Cannabis and drug impairment also count.

  ⚠ DUI conviction stays permanently on your criminal record.
• No Passenger or Curfew RestrictionsNo GDL restrictions apply. All passengers must be properly restrained with a working seatbelt.
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  Still No Phone While DrivingHandheld device ban applies to all drivers regardless of license class. $50 first offense, $100 second, $150 third or more under Georgia's Hands-Free law.

How many points before Basic License suspension in Georgia? What happens at 15 points for a Basic License holder in Georgia? How long do Georgia DDS points stay on record?

• Georgia DDS Point Suspension: 15 in 24 MonthsAdult drivers face suspension if they accumulate 15 points within 24 months. Drivers under 21 face stricter rules: certain serious violations worth 4+ points can trigger suspension on their own.

  ⚠ Points stay on your abstract and insurers can see every conviction.
• 15 Points in 24 Months = SuspensionOnce you reach 15 points in any 24-month window, your Basic License is suspended. Reinstatement requires a fee and, in some cases, completing a DDS-approved driver improvement program.
• Abstract Stays After ReinstatementOnce a suspension is served and you are reinstated, the conviction stays on your driving abstract. Insurers see it and it can raise your rates for years.
• Impaired Driving = Criminal Record0.08%+ BAC or drug impairment = criminal charge. Stays permanently on criminal record — affects employment and travel.

What should full Georgia drivers know about insurance in Georgia? How do I keep my driving record clean? When does a Georgia Basic License need to be renewed?

• Request Your Driving Abstract AnnuallyOrder it from Georgia DDS. Know what insurers see before they do — errors on your abstract can be disputed.
• Shop Your Insurance AnnuallyRates shift every year — loyalty rarely pays. Compare quotes at renewal. A clean 3-year record qualifies for significant discounts.
• Keep Your Driving Abstract Clean3 years no tickets, no claims = measurably lower premiums. Abstract is pulled at every renewal and driving-related job application.
• Update Your Address with DDS Within 30 DaysGeorgia law requires you to notify DDS within 30 days of moving. Missing a renewal notice because your address is outdated is your problem.
• Consider Higher Liability CoverageGeorgia minimum is $200,000 — most advisors recommend $1–2 million. Costs little extra, protects everything.

What are the most common mistakes full Georgia drivers make in Georgia? What happens if you drive impaired with a Basic License? Can a Basic License license be suspended?

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  Don't Assume a Low BAC Is FineGeorgia goes straight to criminal DUI at 0.08% with no warn range. One or two drinks can reach that threshold. Zero is always safest when driving.
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  Don't Let Tickets Stack UpTwo minor convictions within 3 years can trigger an insurance surcharge. Three or more = high-risk policy territory.
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  Don't Admit Fault at the SceneExchange info, call police if needed, report to insurer — never say "it was my fault." That's determined by the insurer, not you.
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  Don't Lend Your Car CarelesslyWhoever drives your car uses your insurance. An at-fault accident by another driver in your vehicle hits your record and rates.
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  Don't Drive for Rideshare Without Commercial CoveragePersonal insurance doesn't cover Uber/Lyft driving. You need a commercial endorsement — check with your insurer first.

What are the leading causes of accidents for experienced drivers in Georgia? What is the Move Over law in Georgia? What is the keep-right rule on Georgia highways?

• Move Over Law — Mandatory Slow DownWhen passing stopped emergency, police, or tow trucks with lights on: move over one lane when safe, or reduce your speed to at least 20 mph below the posted limit. Georgia's Move Over law applies to stopped emergency, police, tow, and utility vehicles with lights flashing.
• Aggressive Driving and Reckless Driving Are Separate ChargesGeorgia has both reckless driving and aggressive driving statutes. Reckless driving: disregard for safety. Aggressive driving: intentional acts like tailgating or cutting off others. Both carry points and stay permanently on your abstract.
• 3-Second Following Distance on HighwayIncrease to 4–5 seconds in rain or snow. Tailgating is the leading cause of expressway collisions in Georgia.
• Left Lane Is Not the Driving LaneGeorgia's keep-right law: stay right except to pass. Camping in the left lane = obstruct traffic charge + points.
• Complacency Is the Biggest RiskExperienced drivers are statistically more likely to speed and follow too close. The habits that get lazy are the ones that cause crashes.

What can I do with a Basic License license in Georgia? How do I get a CDL in Georgia? When does a Georgia Basic License expire?

• Supervise Instructional Permit Drivers — Must Be 21+With a Basic License and being at least 21, you can supervise an Instructional Permit holder. Sit in the front passenger seat and stay alert. Georgia does not require a specific number of years licensed.
• Upgrade to a Commercial Driver License (CDL)Your Basic License is the starting point for all Georgia CDL classes. A CDL opens commercial vehicle, heavy truck, and bus driving careers in Georgia.
• Renew Every 8 YearsGeorgia Basic Licenses are valid for 8 years. Renewal includes a vision test at a Georgia DDS office. Can renew online if no vision changes. Don't drive on an expired license.
• Senior Driver Refresher (70+)Drivers 70 and over must renew every 2 years and complete a vision + knowledge test. Group education session required at 80+.