Professional Documents
Culture Documents
2019 – 2020
DRIVERS
MANUAL
R EVI S E D 7/1/2019
Download the
DDS 2 GO App
FREE
Scan this cover with the App to access mobile content.
TAKE THE PLEDGE
TO DRIVE SAFELY.
DISTRACTION
LEVEL
Safety Guidelines 44 The DDS Title VI Program Coordinator is responsible for oversight of the Title
VI Program and ensuring compliance with the requirements provided in 49
Code of Federal Regulations (C.F.R) Part 21 and 49 C.F.R. Part 303. The Title
Sharing the Road 48 VI Program Coordinator and all Division Directors are authorized to effectively
implement the Title VI Program on behalf of the Department.
Losing Your Driving Privileges 52
Crashes 56
This manual is produced by the Governmental Affairs and Communications Division of Georgia Department of Driver Services.
The information contained in this manual is not intended to be an official legal reference to the Georgia traffic laws. It is intended only to explain, in everyday
language, those laws, driving practices, and procedures that you will use most often. It should be noted that the material in this manual is subject to
change to comply with amended State and Federal legislation. The department’s primary statutory responsibilities are set forth in Title 40 of the Official
Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.)
1
DDS CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTERS
This section contains the cities and addresses of all DDS Customer Service Centers (CSC’s) in Georgia. You may visit any location for service.
Please check hours of operation and driving directions at www.dds.georgia.gov.
Join AAA today and put some peace of mind in the palm of your hand.
Upon activation and with proper identification, AAA will provide regular AAA services and full privileges for the new member.
Roadside benefits begin three days after payment of dues. Some restrictions apply. 1 Based on 2013-2016 AAA U.S. Market Track
national surveys. 19-PR-0045
MESSAGES
GOVERNOR’S MESSAGE
GEORGIA.GOV
5
SECTION 1
GENERAL LICENSING has a valid license issued by his or her home
state. This includes their spouse or dependent
sion proof of payment of such tuition paid
for the current or immediately preceding
INFORMATION son or daughter who has a valid license is- period of enrollment.
sued by their home state;
9
SECTION 1: GENERAL LICENSING INFORMATION
SECURE ID
DOCUMENTATION IF STOPPED BY LAW
REQUIREMENTS ENFORCEMENT…
The following are examples of acceptable Pull to the nearest/safest spot out of traffic, use your turn signal, and
remember SAFETY.
documents to bring with you to be issued
• S - Stay calm and remain in • E - Explanations can be
a Secure ID. the vehicle (unless instructed made in court, not on the
• Identity Document - An original or certified document to prove otherwise). Keep your seat road side. Do NOT argue with
WHO YOU ARE such as an original or certified Birth Certificate, belt fastened, and roll the the officer.
US Passport, Certificate of Naturalization, I-551, etc. window down completely.
• T - Tell the officer where
• Your Social Security Card. (A W-2, SSA-1099, or paystub may • A - Always keep both your documents (i.e. driver's
also be used but must show your full social security number) hands visible to the officer. license, proof of insurance,
Driver's hands should be and vehicle registration)
• Two Documents showing Georgia residence (e.g. utility bill, on the steering wheel. Turn are located. Take out your
phone bill). on interior lights if stopped documents only after the
• Name Change - If your name is currently different than the at night. officer's request.
"identity document" presented (such as birth certificate, • F – Focus on the officer. • Y - You should NOT make
passport, etc), you must provide a certified copy with seal; Turn off the radio, put sudden moves or threatening
legal name change document (e.g. marriage certificate, divorce down any mobile devices, gestures. Inform the officer
decree, etc.). NOTE: Document required even if your name is and be courteous even if if there is a weapon in the
correct on current license/id. you disagree. vehicle and where. Do NOT
• Minor's may present passport; however, proof of guardianship reach for the weapon.
requires original/certified birth certificate or certified court
ordered documents. Things You Should Know
• Original immigration documentation must be submitted each • If the officer is not in uniform • Signing the citation is NOT
time service is requested pertaining to a driver's license or or does not have a marked an admission of guilt. It only
identification card. patrol car, you should ask for means that you received a
• Gender Change - A gender update requires applicants to submit identification. citation for a violation.
a court order or physician's letter certifying gender change. The • The officer may approach the • Any refusal to sign the
letter or court order shall state the person's name, date of birth, driver's side or passenger citation could result in you
date of gender reassignment operation and other identifying side of the vehicle. Do being arrested and taken to
information. not be alarmed; he or jail to post a bond.
To assist with collecting your documents, DDS has created a Check- she will approach in the
• You will be given a court date
list Wizard at www.dds.georgia.gov that will allow you to print a safest manner.
to argue your case.
custom checklist of your documents, or you may choose to print the • If you receive a citation in
full list of acceptable documents. • You should not discard your
Georgia, you will be asked to
Once you are issued a Secure ID with a star in the upper right corner, copy of the citation.
sign it.
you should be eligible to conduct future transactions without visiting a
center. Download the DDS app, DDS 2 GO, for free to have a licensing
office in your pocket!
Important Notice: Beginning October 1, 2020, you will need a
Secure ID/Real ID compliant card (with a star in the right corner) to
fly within the U.S. or enter federal buildings or nuclear power plant
www.dhs.gov.
There’s a time to
check whether your kid’s
in the right car seat.
This isn’t it.
safercar.gov/TheRightSeat
13
SECTION 2: OBTAINING A LICENSE, PERMIT OR IDENTIFICATION CARD
State ID Card Wartime/Conflict Periods
For first-time issuance of a State ID Card, April 6, 1917 through November 11, 1918. The period for a veteran who
you must meet all requirements to obtain a World War I served with the U.S. Military forces in Russia would include April 6,
Secure DL/ID if you have not already done so. 1917, through April 1, 1920.
See page 10 for requirements.
World War II December 7, 1941 through December 31, 1946.
A State of Georgia ID Card may be obtained
at any DDS Customer Service Center. The cost Korea June 27, 1950 through January 31, 1955.
of this card varies depending on the type of
card obtained. Lebanon Conflict July 1, 1958 through November 1, 1958.
• An 8-year ID card is $32; Berlin Conflict August 14, 1961 through June 1, 1963.
• All previous ID cards must be surrendered; Vietnam July 1, 1958 through May 7, 1975.
• If you no longer have possession of your
Dominican Republic
previous driver’s license/ID card/permit to April 28, 1965 through September 21, 1966.
Conflict
surrender, you must provide a certified copy
of your Motor Vehicle Report (MVR), from Grenada Conflict October 23, 1983 through November 21, 1983.
the previous state.
Panama Liberation December 30, 1989 through February 15, 1990.
Upon submission of a referral from a DDS-
approved non-profit agency, the applicant will Saudi Arabia/
be permitted to obtain an ID card at a cost of Iraq/Kuwait/ August 2, 1990 - ending date unknown at this time.
$5.00. Persian Gulf
A special ID card for persons with permanent
disabilities is available for a term of eight years
at a cost of $5.00. A card for persons with tem-
porary disabilities is also available for a term of
six (6) months at a cost of $5.00. This card serves
Licenses for Veterans of Honorary License – NO FEE
as proof of the need for special transportation
the U.S. Armed Forces The spouse of a disabled, honorably sepa-
services, seating accommodations, and other
and their Spouses rated veteran who does not have a driver’s li-
cense, or the unmarried surviving spouse of a
facilities for the handicapped. Verification from
deceased honorably separated veteran, is enti-
a licensed physician may be required to obtain a Veteran’s License
tled to the same license available to the veteran.
permanent Handicap ID, and is always required
Important: Please read carefully. The An applicant for this type of license must meet
to obtain or extend a temporary Handicap ID.
veteran must obtain the Certificate of the same requirements as those required for a
The fee for this card is waived for those who
Eligibility (DS-516) from the State De- veteran’s license. For the unmarried surviving
meet the qualifications listed on this page for a
partment of Veterans Service to obtain a spouse, the death certificate along with the DD-
veteran’s driver’s license.
Veterans license. 214 must be submitted to the State Department
Customers can also have the handicap sym-
Applicants must meet the following require- of Veterans Service to obtain a Certificate of
bol placed on any other type of license, permit,
ments for eligibility of a veteran’s license: Eligibility.
or identification card. Customers have the op-
Veterans must have served on active duty dur-
tion to include certain medical information on • Visit the nearest office of the State Depart-
ing one of the periods of conflict (see chart above)
the back of their card as well. This information is ment of Veterans Service and present
or must have served at least 20 years in the Na-
also available at our website, dds.georgia.gov. evidence of honorable, active duty service
tional Guard to qualify for a Veteran’s License or
A voter registration ID is also available at in the Armed Forces of the United States or
for a spouse to qualify for an Honorary License.
no cost for any individual who swears under evidence of a minimum of twenty years of
oath that the ID is needed in order to vote in service in the National Guard. All this infor-
an election in Georgia. mation is on your copy of the Armed Forces National Guard License
All applicants for ID cards must provide separation papers (Form DD-214). Activation
proof of identity, proof of U.S. Citizenship or for training purposes does not qualify you for A distinctive license may be issued to any
lawful presence, proof of Social Security Num- the Georgia Veteran’s License. The qualified member of the Georgia National Guard in good
ber or ineligibility for a Social Security Num- veteran will be issued a Certificate of Eligibil- standing who has completed at least one year
ber, and proof of Georgia residency. See pages ity (DS-516), signed by the veteran and the of satisfactory service. A Certificate of Eligibil-
10-11 for further information concerning these certifying official from the State Depart- ity (DS-318) form must be obtained from the
requirements. ment of Veterans Service; local National Guard Commanding Officer
and presented to any DDS Customer Service
• The original certificate (DS-516) may then be
Center. This license is renewable during the
Other License Types presented by the veteran to any DDS Cus-
time of service in the National Guard or until
tomer Service Center along with any other
20 years of service has been obtained, at which
documentation needed to prove identity, law-
Commercial Driver’s License time the person will be entitled to a Veteran’s
ful presence, and residency for issuance of the
Detailed information concerning licensing License. The form DS-318 must be presented
license (see pages 10-11). Veterans who have
requirements for Commercial Driver’s Li- to the DDS upon every renewal of a National
served during a period of active conflict are
censes can be found in the Commercial Driv- Guard license.
eligible for a free veteran's license/ID card.
ers Manual as well as on the DDS website at
The State Department of Veterans Service
dds.georgia.gov.
will denote active conflict on the DS-516; New Georgia Residents
Motorcycle Operator’s License • Successfully pass a vision test for the initial
Detailed information concerning licensing issuance of a Class C veteran’s license. To General Information
requirements for Motorcycle Operator’s Li- obtain any other class of license, you must You must apply for a Georgia driver’s license
censes can be found in the Motorcycle Opera- successfully complete examinations for the or permit within 30 days of becoming a Georgia
tors Manual as well as on the DDS website at class of license desired. resident if you wish to drive upon the highways
dds.georgia.gov. of this state. Please see page 6 for more informa-
DANGER
ALL DMVs are not Alike!!!
Beware of fake DMV websites that charge for training materials or informational material.
Most customers arrive at these sites by doing a browser search for “Georgia DMV,”
“Georgia License Renewal” or similar generic searches.
Please read the pages of these sites carefully, because by law they are required to inform
users that the site is not affiliated with any State or Government Entity. They are privately
owned sites that will have .com or .org at the end of their website address (url). The official
state of Georgia websites will have .gov as is the case with www.dds.georgia.gov.
15
SECTION 3
TESTING • You may not speak to anyone during the test
other than the examiner administering the test.
• All road test vehicles must be covered by liabil-
ity insurance (you must show a valid insurance
INFORMATION Any violation of these rules is consid-
card or Motor Vehicle registration card that
shows the VIN) and pass a safety inspection;
ered misconduct. If misconduct occurs during
This Section Covers the administration of the knowledge exam, the
exam session will be counted as a failure.
• If the vehicle is not equipped with illumi-
nated turn signals, you must be able to pass
Knowledge Exam.................................................. 16 The questions on the knowledge exam per- the road test using hand signals;
Road Signs........................................................... 16 tain to topics discussed in this manual and
• You may take the test in a rental vehicle.
Road Rules........................................................... 16 consist of the following components:
Please be advised that many rental agree-
Road Test............................................................... 16 ments do not allow vehicle use for driver
Road Signs
Making Road Test Reservations.......................... 16 training or testing. Additionally, you must
A set of questions on the meaning of standard
Road Test for Class C or D................................... 16 meet the following conditions:
highway signs will be given. This test is given in
Road Test for Class M.......................................... 17 »» You must provide a copy of the rental
English only. You will be asked to identify cer-
Road Test for Class E and contract (the contract will be reviewed to
tain signs, signals and markers. You must cor-
determine if testing is allowed);
F Non-Commercial............................................... 17 rectly answer 15 out of 20 questions to pass. You
»» You must be listed as a driver on the rental
Road Test for Class A, B, and C Commercial....... 17 may take a practice test at dds.georgia.gov.
contract;
Results of Pass/Fail............................................. 17 »» You must provide proof of valid insurance
Road Rules
for the vehicle.
The road rules test consists of a set of ques-
tions about driver responsibility, knowledge of The driving test will not be conducted if
laws, and safe driving practices applicable to weather conditions or any other conditions
Knowledge Exam the class of license for which you are applying. are determined to be unsafe for the driver or
You must correctly answer 15 out of 20 ques- examiner. DDS will make every effort to ensure
Knowledge exams are given on a walk-in tions to pass. You may take a practice test at that impacted customers are rescheduled as
basis at every DDS Customer Service Center dds.georgia.gov. soon as possible.
statewide. To ensure that an applicant has ad- For the driving test you will be expected to
equate time to complete the knowledge exam, demonstrate your ability to do all of the fol-
customers must begin taking the written test at
Road Test lowing:
least 30 minutes prior to closing. Please check
• Parallel Parking: Park midway between
the hours of operation before you visit on our Making Road Test Reservations
two standards so that your car is not more
website at dds.georgia.gov. The Road Skills Test is administered by
than 18 inches from the curb. The standard
We offer special assistance for customers appointment only. Appointments allow us to
parallel parking dimensions utilized in the
with reading disabilities and hearing impair- maximize our resources and to serve all of our
driver’s license test are 22 feet in length by
ment. Please visit your local CSC to schedule an customers more efficiently. When all testing
10 feet in depth;
appointment for an oral exam or to schedule an slots have not been reserved, an appointment
interpreter for the hearing impaired. may be available for same day service. To make • Straight Line Backing: Back your car for
The road rules tests are available in some an appointment, please visit DDS Online Ser- a distance of approximately 50 feet at a slow
non-English languages, but all drivers must vices at dds.georgia.gov. rate of speed (not more than 10 miles per
show ability to read and understand simple hour) as straight and as smoothly as possible.
English such as is used in highway traffic and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems You must turn your head and look behind the
directional signs. Road signs and the actual Drivers may perform the skills test in vehicles vehicle while backing. No boundary lines
driving test are conducted in English only. equipped with advanced driver assistance tech- should be encroached;
nology. However, the applicant must demon-
These basic rules must be followed while a • Stop for Signs or Traffic Signals: Give
strate their ability to operate the vehicle without
knowledge exam is being given: the proper hand or brake signal; approach
such technology.
in the proper lane; stop before reaching a pe-
• You may not bring pens, pencils, paper, or
destrian crosswalk and remain stopped until
any other items into the testing area; Road Test For Class C or D
all pedestrians have cleared the crosswalk
• All cell phones, text messaging devices, and • DDS will only administer a Class C or D on the side of the roadway upon which you
other types of wireless devices are prohibited road test in a four-wheel vehicle; are traveling; move through the intersection
in the testing area; only when you may do so safely;
• You must provide the vehicle for the road test;
• Turn About: Turn your car in a narrow space
• All road test vehicles must have a valid reg-
using a three-point turn;
istration/license plate, or if equipped with a
temporary dealership tag, the applicant must • Use of Clutch: If your car has a manual
provide the bill of sale for proof of purchase transmission, you must shift smoothly and
within the last 30 days (7 days if the vehicle correctly;
is purchased from a third party);
• Approaching Intersections and Corners:
You must be in the proper lane and look in
both directions;
• Yielding Right-of-Way: Always yield right-
of-way to pedestrians, vehicle operators, and
bicyclists who move into the intersection be-
fore you by stopping and remaining stopped
until they have cleared the intersection;
• Turning: Move into the proper lane and
signal an adequate distance before the turn;
! Falling
asleep
at
stop
lights
! Head
nodding
or
dropping,
if
driver
is
visible
! Yawning,
rubbing
eyes,
watery
eyes,
heavy
! Dri:ing
out
of
travel
lane,
crossing
edge
or
eyelids center
lines,
hi<ng
the
rumble
strips
! Difficulty
remembering
the
last
few
miles
driven ! Near
miss
crashes,
especially
rear
end
! ErraCc
driving
behavior-‐speeding
up/slowing
! Missing
road
signs
or
exits
down,
weaving
or
dri:ing
in
lane
! Rear-‐ending
another
vehicle
or
hi<ng
another
! Unplanned
lane
changes
vehicle
head-‐on
! Head
nodding
or
dropping ! Hi<ng
a
staConary
object
www.aasmnet.org
17
SECTION 4
OTHER SERVICES Renewal for Individuals
Temporarily Located Out
• Changes (name, address, etc.) must be made
in person at a DDS Customer Service Cen-
& INFORMATION of the State of Georgia ter. Changes cannot be made using the mail
method of renewal.
Renewal by mail is offered for certain groups
This Section Covers of individuals who must be away from the State
Customers who choose to renew their license
in this manner will not receive a Secure DL/
of Georgia at the time renewal of their license
Renewal for Individuals Temporarily Located ID. To download the application package and
is required. Supporting documentation, a
Out of the State of Georgia................................... 18 complete instructions, please visit our website
completed application and payment of fee (if
at dds.georgia.gov.
License, Permit, or Identification Card required) must be submitted to verify that the
Number Changes................................................... 18 applicant is eligible to renew in this manner.
This service is available to the following groups: License, Permit, or
Lost or Stolen License Replacement.................. 19 Identification Card
• Customers stationed out of state on active
DDS Internet Services.......................................... 19
military duty, their spouse and any depen-
Number Changes
Address Change.................................................... 20 dents living with them;
No licenses or identification cards may be
Name Change........................................................ 20 • Full-time students attending school outside issued in Georgia with a Social Security Num-
Motor Vehicle Reports (MVR).............................. 20 Georgia, their spouse and any dependents ber as the document number. If your license,
living with them; permit or identification card number is identical
Selective Service Registration............................ 20
to your Social Security Number, a randomly
Blindness Donation............................................... 20 • Customers who are physically incapacitated
generated document number will be assigned
and unable to visit a DDS Customer Service
Organ and Tissue Donation................................. 20 to your document during the issuance/renewal
Center may be issued an ID Card only.
process. Once your number has changed, you
Voter Registration................................................. 21 This service is subject to the following will need to ensure that any companies or enti-
restrictions: ties using your driver’s license, permit, or identi-
fication card number for tracking or verification
• The renewal will be granted for an 8-year re-
purposes, such as insurance companies, are
newal period, at the end of which the license
aware of this change.
holder must appear in person for renewal;
• A driver’s license that has been expired for
two (2) or more years cannot be renewed
by mail;
• Expired Georgia Driver's License, Permit or • View and/or download a copy of • Download the most recent
Identification Card; your driving history (MVR); version of the Drivers Manual;
• U.S. Passport or Passport Card that is valid • Request a certified driving history (MVR); • Skip A Step! (Complete Online Form);
or expired less than 10 years; • Pay 'Failure to Appear' fee or reinstate • Apply for For-Hire license endorsement;
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad; a ‘Failure to Appear’ suspension;
• Register for a Motorcycle Safety course.
• Expired Georgia Interim; • Pay ‘Super Speeder’ fee or reinstate
*Some online services are available if all requirements are met, including completion of Secure
(Continued on next page) ID requirements (see page 10 for details).
19
SECTION 4: OTHER SERVICES & INFORMATION
• Non U.S. Citizens the marriage license application reflecting the ment of Public Health. Donations currently fund
–– Valid foreign passport with valid I-94; selection of the hyphenated surname must be vision programs which provide screenings to
–– Valid permanent resident card (I-551); presented at the time of the request. save children’s vision, eye exams for needy
–– Valid employment authorization card adults, training for people who have lost vision,
(I-766 or I-688A or I-688B) with proof and public education about eye donation. Your
of pending application to adjust status;
Motor Vehicle Reports (MVR) voluntary donation will be added to the total
cost of your service.
or TWO of these documents (only if replac- MVRs are available in 3-year, 7-year, or life-
ing license, permit, or ID card): time formats. A 3 year report is $6.00; a 7 year
• Social Security Card (original or copy);
report is $8.00. A lifetime report is $8.00. Indi- Organ and Tissue Donation
viduals may obtain a copy of their MVR in any
• Original or Certified Copy of Marriage Cer- of the following ways: The Donate Life Georgia Organ, Tissue and
tificate; Eye Donor Registry was created in 2008 to allow
1. Via Internet
Georgians an easy and user-friendly means of
• Previous Year’s Income Tax Return or W2; A non-certified copy of your Motor Vehicle
joining the state’s donor registry. Georgians
Report (MVR) can be downloaded by using DDS
• Current Auto, Home, Life or Health Insur- can join the registry through the website at
Online Services. Please visit dds.georgia.gov
ance Policy (Cards Not Accepted); www.donatelifegeorgia.org, when renew-
for further details. You will be required to cre-
ing their driver license or ID online, or when
• Current Auto Registration Receipt; ate an account if you have not already done so.
obtaining/renewing their license or ID at a lo-
• Voter Registration Card; 2. In Person cal DDS Customer Service Center. You can also
A certified copy of your Motor Vehicle Report join the Donor Registry by calling Donate Life
• Valid or Expired Military ID Card and/or
(MVR) can be purchased in person at any DDS Georgia directly at 1-866-57-SHARE (1-866-577-
Military Orders;
Customer Service Center. Proper identification 4273) and requesting a donor registry form.
• Valid Georgia Gun Permit. will be required.
If obtaining a motor vehicle report other than Other things to remember:
If your license was stolen and you wish to
your own, the following is required:
change the number on your replacement Geor- • Organ donation can occur only after every
gia driver’s license, permit or identification card, • Completion of the Request for MVR form measure has been taken to save your life,
you will be required to present a police report (DDS-18) from the licensee naming the per- and only after death has been legally and
indicating that the license was stolen unless son authorized to receive the record, includ- medically declared;
your license number and your Social Security ing the full name, date of birth, and Georgia
• Georgia law prohibits the physician who de-
Number are the same. If the two numbers are driver’s license number of the licensee;
clares a patient dead from participating in the
the same, no police report is required.
• The person receiving the report for another in- removal or transplantation of that patient’s
dividual must also show proper identification. donated organs or tissues;
Address Change 3. Via Mail • There is no cost to the donor’s family for any
You can obtain a certified copy of your MVR expenses related to organ tissue/eye dona-
• You must update your record with DDS any-
by submitting the Request for MVR form (DDS- tion. Also, there is no delay in funeral ar-
time your address changes. DDS correspon-
18) OR a letter requesting either a 3-year, 7-year, rangements;
dence will not be forwarded to new addresses
or lifetime MVR, including the following:
by the U.S. Postal Service. • Georgia law requires hospitals to notify an
• Your full name as it appears on your driver’s organ/tissue/eye recovery center when a
• If you have moved, you must visit a DDS
license; donation is possible;
Customer Service Center within 60 days
to update your mailing and/or residential • Driver’s license number; • Recipients are selected by urgency of need,
address, or you may visit our website at compatibility of blood type, body size, and
• Date of birth; and
dds.georgia.gov to change your address. tissue type, regardless of sex, race or creed.
If you change your address in person, you • Complete mailing address.
More information concerning organ and tissue
must provide proof of the change in address.
Requests may be mailed to: Georgia Depart- donation can be found at www.organdonor.gov.
If you change your address online, your new
ment of Driver Services, MVR Request, Post
address will be verified through USPS.
Office Box 80447, Conyers, Georgia 30013. When
requesting a MVR, please include a money or-
GSFA Donation
Name Change der, cashier’s check, or personal check made
DDS offers the opportunity to make a volun-
payable to the Department of Driver Services
tary charitable contribution of $1, $5, or $10 to
• Name changes must be completed in person in the amount of $6.00 for a 3-year or $8.00 for
the Georgia Student Finance Authority (GSFA)
at a DDS Customer Service Center; a 7-year or lifetime MVR.
during the license issuance or renewal process.
• If you change your name by marriage or oth- Pursuant to HB 54 (2016), this donation will help
er legal action, you must obtain a new license Selective Service Registration to provide financial assistance toward the post-
showing the correct name within 60 days. A secondary educational costs of the children of
free replacement license valid for the current At the time of any license or identification law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramed-
term will be issued once in a license term; card transaction, DDS is required to ask males ics, emergency medical technicians, and prison
age 18 whether they have registered with the guards employed by the state or other public
• In order to change your name on your license
U.S. Selective Service System and to report the employer who were permanently disabled or
or identification card, you must present a
responses to the U.S. Selective Service System. killed in the line of duty. The children of High-
certified copy of a marriage license applica-
way Emergency Response Operators who were
tion (if the marriage occurred in Georgia),
permanently disabled or killed in the line of duty
marriage license, state-issued marriage cer- Blindness Donation are also included.
tificate, or court-ordered name change;
When you obtain your driver's license, permit,
• You may change to a hyphenated surname
or ID, you will have the opportunity to make a
on your license or identification card if the
voluntary donation of $1 to Georgia’s Blindness
marriage occurred in the State of Georgia on
Education, Screening, and Treatment Program,
or after November 1, 1982. A certified copy of
which is administered by the Georgia Depart-
HIGHWAY ENFORCEMENT
OF AGGRESSIVE TRAFFIC
21
SECTION 5
TRAFFIC LAWS 3 MOST BASIC TRAFFIC LAWS
This Section Covers The three most basic traffic laws require drivers to:
1. Obey traffic control devices (lights and signs);
Laws Governing Right-of-Way............................. 22
2. Obey the traffic directions of a law enforcement officer or firefighter, even if it goes
Georgia’s Move-Over Law.................................... 23 against what the traffic control devices tell you to do;
Passing................................................................... 23 3. Never drive on a roadway that has been closed for construction, for the purpose of a
How to Pass on a Two-Lane Road....................... 23 special event, or for any other official reason.
Passing is Prohibited on Two-Lane Roads .......... 23
Passing is Permitted When.................................. 24
Passing On The Right .......................................... 24
When Someone Passes You................................ 24
Passing Stopped Cars.......................................... 24 Traffic laws are necessary to prevent crashes –– If another driver tries to take your turn,
Passing Bicyclists................................................ 24 by defining the orderly movement of vehicles, even if you have the right-of-way, let the
pedestrians, and other users of public highways. other driver proceed. It might prevent
Passing Motorcyclists.......................................... 24
Remember, traffic laws exist for your safety; fail- a traffic crash;
Weaving................................................................ 24
ure to obey them can result in crashes that may –– Care, courtesy and common sense
Turn Signals and Making Turns Safely............... 24 seriously injure or kill you or others. To obey the should govern your actions.
Illegal Signals....................................................... 24 laws, you must first know and understand them.
• When making a left turn at an intersection,
How To Make A Right Turn................................... 24
or into an alley or driveway, yield the right-
How To Make A Left Turn..................................... 24 Laws Governing Right-of-Way of-way to all traffic coming from the opposite
Watching for Pedestrians When Making Turns.... 25 direction;
U-Turns................................................................. 25 Right-of-way is a phrase used to describe
Making Turns on Multi-Lane Highways............... 25 • When approaching a yield sign, slow down
who has the lawful authority to enter a roadway,
to a safe speed and be prepared to stop. If
Stopping, Standing, and Parking........................ 25 change lanes within a roadway, make a turn
necessary, stop and only proceed when it is
from a roadway, travel through an intersec-
Steps to Parallel Parking...................................... 25 safe to do so;
tion, or make any other traffic related move-
Backing Up............................................................. 26 ment. Georgia law establishes right-of-way in all • When the roadway you are traveling on is
Traveling Speed..................................................... 26 situations. Vehicle drivers (including bicyclists) merging into other traffic without stopping,
Super Speeder..................................................... 26 and pedestrians should always understand the adjust your speed and vehicle position to
Speed Limits........................................................ 26 rules related to right-of-way, and remember that allow you to merge into the new lane safely.
right-of-way is something to be given, not taken. If traffic from another roadway is merging
Driving Too Slowly................................................ 26
There may be instances in which you as a driver into the roadway you are traveling on, safely
Railroad Crossings................................................ 26 or pedestrian have the legal right-of-way over change lanes away from the merging traffic if
Highway Work Zones............................................ 27 someone else, even though the other person possible. If it is not possible to change lanes
Obey the Signs..................................................... 27 does not realize it and is not obeying the rules away from the merging traffic, adjust your
Reduce Your Speed.............................................. 27 of the road. In those instances, the right-of-way speed and vehicle position to safely allow
Obey Flaggers...................................................... 27 should be yielded in order to prevent a crash. the traffic to merge;
The following is a list of the most common
Yield to Amber Lights in Work Zones................... 27 • At intersections with traffic control lights,
situations in which right-of-way questions are
Adjust Your Lane Position.................................... 27 wait until the intersection is clear of traffic
faced in real life:
Yield to Mobile Work Vehicles.............................. 27 or approaching traffic before entering. Do not
Work Zone Driving Tips........................................ 26 • When traveling on a roadway that intersects proceed “just because” you have the green
with another roadway, if you are faced with light;
Other Laws............................................................. 28
a stop sign, but other traffic is not, you may
Controlled-Access Roadways.............................. 28 • If you are about to enter or cross a highway
proceed only after stopping and yielding the
Coasting............................................................... 28 from an alley, private road or highway, you
right-of-way to any other vehicle or pedes-
Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol... 28 must stop and yield the right-of-way to all
trian either in the intersection, or so close to
Reckless Driving.................................................. 28 other pedestrians and vehicles already trav-
the intersection as to make it dangerous to
Racing.................................................................. 28 eling on the roadway or sidewalk you are
travel through the intersection;
Aggressive Driving............................................... 28 entering or crossing;
Texting and Cell Phone Use While Driving........... 28 • At intersections where there are no stop
• If emergency vehicles are using their emer-
signs, yield signs or other traffic signals, if
Following Emergency Vehicles............................. 28 gency lights (blue or red) and sirens, safely
two vehicles come to the intersection at the
Trucks and Vehicles Pulling Trailers..................... 28 maneuver your vehicle out of their way. You
same time, the driver of the vehicle on the
Riding in Trailers.................................................. 28 should slow your vehicle and move over to
left must yield to the driver of the vehicle
Median Strip......................................................... 28 the shoulder of the road, or if that is not pos-
on the right;
Impaired Hearing and Vision................................ 28 sible, as far to the right of the roadway or lane
Obstructing the Driver’s View.............................. 28 • At a four-way intersection where all drivers as you can, and stop. You should always use
Opening Vehicle Doors......................................... 28 are faced with stop signs, all drivers must caution to ensure that you do not endanger
One Way Streets.................................................. 29 yield to pedestrians; otherwise the vehicles other motorists, bicyclists, or pedestrians
Stopping............................................................... 29 should proceed through the intersection in a while doing so. Do not position your vehicle
Use Headlights Properly....................................... 29 “first to arrive, first to proceed order.” If two so that it blocks an intersection or otherwise
vehicles reach the intersection at approxi- prevents the emergency vehicle from making
Night Driving........................................................ 29
mately the same time, yield to any vehicles a necessary turn;
Georgia’s Litter Control Law................................ 29 on your right.
• Yield to all highway maintenance vehicles
Safety Belts........................................................... 29 »» Important points to remember:
and workers in a construction zone;
–– Take your turn when it comes if it is
Safety Restraints for Children............................. 29 safe to do so; do not unnecessarily de- • Unless a sign posted at that intersection pro-
lay traffic; hibits doing so, it is permissible to make a
“right turn on red” at an intersection con-
This law applies to any emergency, sanitation, or utility service vehicle parked on the shoulder of the roadway.
23
SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS
within 200 feet of your vehicle prior to the a pedestrian to cross the roadway, their vehicle A turn signal must be given whenever a turn
completion of a passing maneuver; may block your view of the pedestrian. is made to the right or the left. You must give a
continuous turn signal for an adequate distance
• On a hill or curve where it is not possible to
Passing Bicyclists to alert other drivers before turning. Never de-
see oncoming vehicles which might be close
Bicyclists have the same rights and respon- cide to make a turn at the “last minute.” Turning
enough to be a hazard;
sibilities on the road as motorists. Bicyclists are quickly or erratically can be dangerous to you
• On the shoulder of the road; permitted to travel in the center of the traffic and other drivers.
lane if there are safety hazards on the right
• When a school bus is stopped to load or un-
side of the road (such as parked cars or debris) Illegal Signals
load passengers.
or if the lane is too narrow for a bicycle and a It is against the law to flash turn signals as
vehicle to share. Pass bicyclists with caution, a courtesy or “do pass” signal to other drivers
Passing is Permitted When:
treating them as you would any other vehicle in the rear.
• Lawfully overtaking and passing another and according to Georgia law. The law requires
vehicle going in the same direction; a driver to allow at least three feet between the How To Make A Right Turn
driver and bicyclist when passing. If it is not safe
• An obstruction makes it necessary to drive • Using appropriate signals, and giving drivers
to leave three feet of space, the driver should
to the left of the center line, but only after ahead of and behind you adequate notice,
wait until it is safe to pass the bicyclist. Bicycle
yielding to oncoming traffic; activate your right turn signal;
lanes are not passing lanes and should never be
• A roadway includes two or more marked used to pass another motor vehicle. • Approach the intersection in the right lane,
lanes in the same direction; staying as close as practicable to the curb or
Passing Motorcyclists edge of the roadway;
• A roadway with more than one lane is re-
A motorcyclist legally occupies the full width
stricted to one-way traffic. Upon a multi-lane, • If there is a bicycle lane on the road on which
of a single lane when traveling. When passing a
two way highway, you must never drive to you are traveling, you must yield to bicyclists
motorcyclist, a driver must pass in an adjacent
the left of the center line except when au- traveling straight through the intersection
lane. Drivers are not permitted to occupy the
thorized to do so by traffic control signals before making a right turn;
same lane as a motorcyclist while passing them.
or signs or when making a left turn into an
• Make the turn in such a way as to end up in
alley, private road or driveway.
Weaving the right lane of the street into which you
It is unlawful to weave from one lane of traf- have turned and avoid entering any other
Passing On The Right
fic to another in order to move faster than the lane of traffic. If there are multiple turning
You may pass on the right of another vehicle
flow of traffic. A motorist may change lanes on lanes on the street you are turning from, com-
which is making or about to make a left turn if
a multi-lane highway and pass slower moving plete the turn so that your vehicle ends up
there is sufficient pavement width for both your
vehicles only when it is safe to do so. A driver’s in the corresponding lane on the street you
vehicle and the vehicle making the left turn.
signaling to change lanes should be clearly in- are turning onto.
You may also pass on the right when traveling
dicated so as to warn vehicles of the movement.
on a multi-lane highway carrying two or more
How To Make A Left Turn
lanes of traffic in the same direction.
Turn Signals and • Using appropriate signals, and giving drivers
When Someone Passes You Making Turns Safely ahead of and behind you adequate notice,
When a driver behind you is overtaking activate your left turn signal;
your vehicle, be alert for any unsafe actions Turn movements by motor vehicles are regu-
• Move into the far left lane of the direction in
by the other driver. It is considered courteous lated by law, and failure to observe or comply is
which you are traveling, or into the turning
to reduce your speed slightly, making it easier a violation. Drivers must know and understand
lane if one is provided;
for the other vehicle to pass you. It is unlawful the law in order to turn safely and avoid crashes.
to increase your speed before you have been • Keep your wheels straight until you begin
passed completely by the overtaking vehicle. STOP making the turn;
• Yield the right-of-way to all vehicles, includ-
Passing Stopped Cars
ing bicycles, which are approaching from the
opposite direction, and pedestrians crossing
either roadway;
• When safe to do so, and when traffic signals/
signs permit, make your turn so that your ve-
hicle ends up in the lane closest to the center
RIGHT TURN lane(s) in your direction of traffic on the street
you turned onto, or closest to the center line
if there is no center lane;
Whenever any vehicle is stopped to permit • If there are multiple turning lanes on the
a pedestrian to cross the roadway at a marked street you are turning from, complete the
crosswalk or at any unmarked crosswalk at turn so that your vehicle ends up in the cor-
an intersection, the driver of any other vehicle responding lane on the street you are turn-
approaching from the rear shall not overtake ing onto;
LEFT TURN
and pass the stopped vehicle. When stopping
• Once you have entered an intersection to
to allow a pedestrian to cross in front of you,
make a left turn, you cannot change lanes
leave sufficient room between your vehicle and
in the intersection;
the crosswalk so that approaching traffic can
see the entirety of the crosswalk. • You must stop and remain stopped for any
Slow down and prepare to stop if you are ap- pedestrians in the crosswalk of the road you
proaching an intersection where other vehicles are turning onto until they have cleared the
are stopped, even though the traffic control de- lanes of traffic that you are traveling on.
vices indicate they are authorized to proceed.
If they are stopped because they are allowing
U-Turns
Steps to Parallel Parking
Do not make a U-turn on a curve or near the
When attempting to parallel park, drive past
top of a hill if you cannot be seen by other driv-
the parking space you wish to use and stop
ers approaching from either direction. Do not
when you are approximately even with the
make a U-turn where signs prohibit doing so.
car ahead of the space (you should be approxi-
mately 2 feet from the other car – door to door). Parallel Parking Diagram
Making Turns on
Multi-Lane Highways
On a multi-lane, two-way highway, you must
never drive to the left of the center line except
when making a left turn. If traffic control signals KEEP RIGHT, EXCEPT TO PASS
or signs are present, you may only complete
the turn when authorized to do so by the traf-
fic control signals or signs. When making left
turns, you must always yield to oncoming traf-
The "Slow Poke" Law
fic, and wait for pedestrians to clear the lanes Pursuant to House Bill 459, slower drivers must move out of the passing lane (most
of traffic, driveway, sidewalk, or alley you are left-hand lane) and over to the right to allow faster-moving traffic to proceed. Regard-
turning into. less of the speed you are traveling, you must move from the lane when faster traffic is
approaching. The only exceptions are:
Stopping, Standing, • When traffic conditions make it • When your vehicle must be driven in the
and Parking necessary to drive in the passing lane; passing lane to exit or turn left;
• When inclement weather, obstructions, or • When it is necessary to pay a toll or use a
It is against the law to park on a highway. If hazards make it necessary to drive in the pass on toll highways;
the vehicle is disabled, you should make every passing lane;
practical effort to park off the highway, leaving • Authorized emergency vehicles engaged
free passage and a clear view of your vehicle for • When compliance with a law of this state in official duties; or
200 feet in each direction. or with an official traffic control device
• Vehicles engaged in highway
Stopping, Standing or Parking is not makes it necessary to drive in the passing
maintenance and construction
permitted under the following conditions lane;
operations.
at any time:
• On the street side of any parked vehicle;
• On a sidewalk;
• Within an intersection;
• On a crosswalk;
• Between a safety zone and the adjacent curb;
• Alongside or opposite any street excavation
or obstruction when stopping, standing, or
parking would obstruct traffic;
• Upon a bridge or overpass, or within a high-
way tunnel;
• On any railroad tracks; IT'S THE LAW!
• On a controlled access roadway;
25
SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS
• Turn your wheels sharply to the right and times of the day or for a short period of time. • Get out immediately
back slowly toward the car behind the space It is important to pay close attention to road
• Move away
you wish to use; signs while driving to ensure that when you
approach a speed zone, whether temporary • Locate Emergency Notification Systems
• As your front door passes the back bumper
or permanent, you will have sufficient time to (ENS) sign containing emergency contact
of the car ahead of the space you wish to use,
adjust your speed accordingly. information.
quickly straighten your wheels and continue
to back diagonally into the space in a straight • Call for help! Tell them a vehicle is on the
Driving Too Slowly
line; tracks.
Drivers are prohibited from driving a mo-
• When your front bumper is completely clear tor vehicle at such a slow speed as to impede
of the car ahead of you, turn your wheels the normal and reasonable movement of traf-
sharply to the left and back slowly toward fic except when a reduced speed is necessary
the car behind you; for safe operation. On roads with two or more
lanes, drivers cannot continue to operate a mo-
• Stop before making contact with the car be-
tor vehicle in the passing lane if that driver is
hind you. Place the car in drive, turn your
being overtaken by a motor vehicle traveling at
wheels sharply to the right and pull toward
a higher rate of speed from behind. Penalties
the center of the parking space;
include fines up to $1000 and/or 3 points on
• Always give the appropriate turn signal prior the driving record.
to beginning your parking maneuver and When there are two or more lanes for traffic
when you exit from a parallel parking space. moving in the same direction, slower vehicles
should use the right lane except when pass-
ing or making a left turn. Driving too slowly is
Backing Up dangerous because it impedes the regular flow
of traffic. Minimum speed limits are posted on
• Before backing, check all sides of your vehicle
certain highways. If you are unable to drive at
to make sure it is safe to do so. You should
the minimum speed, you should seek an al-
turn your head and look over your right
ternate route.
shoulder while backing; do not depend on
your mirrors;
• For buses and large vehicles, the driver
Railroad Crossings
should use all mirrors and utilize a reliable
You must always stop within 50 feet, but not
person to observe and direct while backing
less than 15 feet, from the nearest rail of a rail-
the vehicle.
road crossing when any of the following apply:
• The signal is flashing;
Traveling Speed
• The crossing gates are lowered;
Super Speeder • A flagman is giving a signal;
Any driver convicted of speeding 75 mph or
• A train is approaching so closely as to create
more on a two-lane road or 85 miles per hour or
an immediate hazard;
more on any road in Georgia, will be assessed
a $200 state fee. The state fee will be in addition • A train gives a warning signal and is an im-
to any local fines imposed in the jurisdiction mediate hazard due to its speed or nearness
where the speeding offense occurs. Failure to to the crossing;
pay the state fee on time will result in a license
• A stop sign is posted.
suspension and additional $50 reinstatement fee.
Under no circumstances should a motorist
Speed Limits drive through, around or under any crossing
Maximum traveling speeds are determined gate while the gate is lowered. After stopping,
based on the following general rules in Georgia remain stopped until all tracks are clear, all
unless otherwise posted: railroad crossing warning signals stop flash-
ing, the crossing gates are raised, and it is safe
• 30 miles per hour in any urban or residential
to proceed.
district;
• 35 miles per hour on an unpaved county road; 7 Steps for Safety at Highway-
Rail Grade Crossings:
• 70 miles per hour on a rural interstate;
1. Approach with care.
• 65 miles per hour on an urban interstate or
on a multi-lane divided highway; 2. Prepare to stop.
• 55 miles per hour in all other areas. 3. Look both ways and listen carefully.
These are only general rules. Local jurisdic- 4. If it won't fit, don't commit. Do not enter
tions, the Georgia Department of Transporta- a crossing unless you can drive completely
tion, or the Georgia Department of Public Safety through without stopping!
may deem it necessary to adjust speed limits
5. Look again.
based on local conditions, whether temporary
or permanent. 6. Cross tracks with care.
Always watch for speed limit signs
7. Keep going once you start.
while driving. Some areas, such as school
zones or construction zones, may be posted If your vehicle stalls on the tracks, do the
for lower maximum speed limits at certain following:
27
SECTION 5: TRAFFIC LAWS
Other Laws Racing Trucks and Vehicles Pulling Trailers
The following behaviors are considered rac- When traveling upon a roadway outside
ing on highways and streets: of a business or residential district, drivers of
Controlled-Access Roadways
trucks and vehicles pulling trailers must leave
• When two or more people compete or race
• You are prohibited from entering or leaving sufficient space between themselves and other
on any street or highway;
any controlled-access roadway at unauthor- vehicles of the same kind, so that the driver of
ized entrances or exits; • When one motor vehicle is beside or to the an overtaking vehicle can enter and occupy
rear of another driver, and one driver tries to the space without danger. This law prohibits
• Certain types of vehicles may be prohibited
prevent the passing or overtaking of the com- the act commonly known as “caravanning.”
on controlled-access roadways if signs are
peting driver by acceleration or maneuver; or Trailers wider than 8 feet, 6 inches are not
posted to this effect;
permitted on Georgia’s highways.
• When one or more persons compete in a
• Backing up is prohibited on controlled-
race against time.
access roadways. Riding in Trailers
In Georgia it is unlawful to drag race. The Riding in a house trailer, or any other ve-
• An example of a controlled-access roadway
penalties for committing this violation may hicular drawn trailer, is not allowed while
includes any tolled facility in Georgia such
include imprisonment and fines, and all driv- it is being moved upon a street or highway.
as the I-85 Express Lanes or the reversible
ing privileges will be suspended if you are There is a high likelihood of injury or death if
I-75 Express Lanes. Tolled lanes in Geor-
convicted. passengers are unrestrained in the trailer and
gia require motorists to mount a registered
the vehicle is involved in a crash or the trailer
Peach Pass transponder in their vehicle in
Aggressive Driving becomes disconnected from the vehicle.
order to access the lanes. Peach Pass can
also be used in Florida and North Carolina. • A person commits the offense of aggres-
Median Strip
Registered owners of the vehicle that enters sive driving when he or she operates any
It is unlawful to drive across a dividing sec-
the tolled lane without an active Peach Pass motor vehicle with the intent to annoy, ha-
tion, barrier, or unpaved strip which separates
will receive a violation notice in the mail. rass, molest, intimidate, injure, or obstruct
two roadways at any point other than at an
another person;
• You are prohibited from entering the revers- authorized opening or crossover.
ible Express Lanes when the access control • Examples of aggressive driving include but
gates are closed or closing. are not limited to tailgating, cutting in front
of another driver, blocking other drivers
Coasting from passing or changing lanes, etc.
The driver of any motor vehicle, when trav-
• A conviction for aggressive driving is con-
eling down a hill, must not coast with the gears
sidered a misdemeanor of a high and ag-
or transmission of the vehicle in neutral.
gravated nature;
Driving Under the Influence • The penalty for committing this violation Impaired Hearing and Vision
of Drugs or Alcohol may include imprisonment, fines, and, if the It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle
driver is under 21 years of age, conviction while wearing a headphone, headset, or any
• It is unlawful for any person to operate a
will result in a suspension of all driving other device which would impair the driver’s
motor vehicle while under the influence of
privileges. ability to hear. Also, the driver must not wear
alcohol, a drug (prescription or illegal), or
anything which would obstruct his or her vi-
any other substance which impairs his/her
Hands Free Georgia Law (HB 673) sion while driving a motor vehicle. Not only is
ability to safely do so;
Effective July 1, 2018, pursuant to 40-6-241(c), wearing these devices illegal, it is also unsafe.
• A person 21 or more years of age is consid- all drivers operating a motor vehicle on any
ered “Under the Influence of Alcohol” when highway of this state are prohibited from: Obstructing the Driver’s View
0.08 gm or more by alcohol weight is present If a vehicle is overloaded with passengers or
• Holding or supporting, with any part of the
in the blood; freight so as to obstruct the view of the driver
body, a wireless telecommunications device
or interfere with the mechanical operation,
• A person under 21 years of age is irrefutably or stand-alone electronic device.
it cannot be legally driven. Passengers must
considered “Under the Influence of Alcohol”
• Writing, sending or reading any text-based not ride in a position that interferes with the
when 0.02 gm or more by alcohol weight is
communication, including a text message, driver’s view or his or her control of the vehicle.
present in the blood;
instant message, e-mail or internet data.
Certain drugs or other substances can also Opening Vehicle Doors
• Watching, recording, or broadcasting a video
make a person irrefutably “under the influ- Opening the doors of a vehicle on the side on
or movie.
ence.” Having a prescription for certain medi- which traffic is moving is prohibited unless it is
cation is not a defense if the medication impairs safe to do so and unless it can be done without
Penalties:
your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. interfering with the movement of other traffic,
Penalties for driving under the influence of • 1st conviction – 1 point and fine not more including bicyclists that may be operating close
intoxicants are severe, with fines up to $1000, than $50.00 to the lane of parked cars.
jail sentences up to 12 months, and mandatory
• 2nd conviction – 2 points and fine not more
suspension of your driving privileges. One Way Streets
than $100.00
Unless directed to by a traffic control device,
Reckless Driving • 3rd or more convictions – 3 points and fine authorized emergency personnel or construc-
Reckless driving is defined as driving any nor more than $150.00 tion workers, it is unlawful for a vehicle to be
vehicle in reckless disregard for the safety driven contrary to the direction posted on a
of persons or property. Examples of reckless Following Emergency Vehicles one-way street or highway, except in situations
driving include but are not limited to speed- The driver of any vehicle, other than one where police vehicles or authorized emergency
ing, weaving in and out of traffic, improperly on official business, must not follow any fire vehicles find it necessary to do so.
passing, etc. Penalties for reckless driving can fighting apparatus traveling in response to a
include a fine of up to $1000, imprisonment for fire alarm, or other emergency vehicles, closer Stopping
up to 12 months, and, if the driver is under 21 than 200 feet, or park any vehicle within 500 When stopping or slowing down suddenly,
years of age, conviction will result in a suspen- feet of any fire apparatus stopped in answer the proper hand, arm, or brake operated stop
sion of all driving privileges. to a fire alarm. signal must be given.
29
SECTION 6
TEEN DRIVING certain requirements, and have demonstrated 7. Certificate of Adult Literacy proving pursuit
their ability to safely operate a motor vehicle, of a GED (available from the Technical Col-
LAWS they are allowed to progress to the next phase. lege System of Georgia for those currently
Successful progression to the next phase also enrolled in a GED program);
requires a demonstration of responsibility on
This Section Covers the part of the teen by avoiding any violations
8. Declaration of Intent for Home Schoolers.
during the term of the license held. TADRA also
School Enrollment Requirements....................... 30
includes school enrollment requirements and Responsible Adult
Joshua’s Law......................................................... 30 license suspension/revocation provisions for Requirements
Class C Instructional Permit (CP)........................ 30 dangerous driving behaviors (e.g. DUI, excessive
speeding, etc.). All applicants under 18 years of age must
Class D Provisional License................................. 31 have a responsible adult present to sign the ap-
Teens Moving to Georgia...................................... 32 plication and complete the Responsible Adult
School Enrollment Affidavit. A responsible adult is a person who
Motorcycle Operator’s Instructional Requirements is eighteen (18) years of age or older, compe-
Permit/License...................................................... 32
tent to verify the application, and has personal
Revocation of Minor’s License/Permit............... 32 Obtaining a Driver’s License knowledge of the applicant. He or she may be:
License/Permit Suspensions............................... 32 or Instructional Permit
• A parent or legal guardian of the applicant
Suspension of Driver’s License/Permit Anyone younger than 18 years of age must
(must provide school or military documents,
or Driving Privileges............................................. 32 present one of the following in order to obtain
tax information or a driver's license/permit/
a driver’s license or instructional permit:
Convictions Other Than DUI................................. 32 ID card to show relationship to applicant),
Convictions for Driving Under the 1. Certificate of School Enrollment (DS-1 – ob-
• A social worker who has worked with the
Influence of Drugs or Alcohol (DUI)...................... 32 tained from school personnel);
applicant (must provide an employee ID or
Texting and Cell Phones....................................... 33 2. High School Diploma; a letter from the state agency),
3. General Education Development (GED); • Certified Driver Training instructor autho-
rized to act on behalf of the parent, legal
4. Special Diploma;
guardian or responsible adult of the appli-
In 1997, the Teenage and Adult Driver Re-
5. Certificate of High School Completion; cant with notarized documentation to verify,
sponsibility Act (TADRA) established a gradu-
ated driver's licensing program for teens ages 6. College or vocational school transcript dated • An employee of a homeless shelter where the
15 to 18 in Georgia. This means that teens within the last thirty days (official transcript applicant resides (must provide an employee
progress through a licensing process in three with seal required); ID or a letter from the shelter),
phases. As teens reach a certain age, complete
31
SECTION 6: TEEN DRIVING LAWS
may, for any reason, revoke your license until Conditions of a Class D instructional permit or driver’s license may re-
you reach the age of 18; Provisional License quest revocation of the license or permit at any
time prior to the minor’s eighteenth birthday.
• You must pass a road test designed to evalu- • A Class D license Holder may not drive be-
The person requesting revocation of a minor’s
ate your ability to safely operate a motor ve- tween the hours of 12:00 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.
instructional permit or driver’s license must
hicle. See pages 16-17 for more information — NO EXCEPTIONS;
submit his or her request for the revocation on
related to the Road Test;
• During the first six months following is- the form designated by the Department. The
• You must satisfy the Driver Education Re- suance, only immediate family members form requires the person’s notarized signature.
quirements listed below. (NOTE: Teens with may ride in the vehicle. ‘Immediate family The person requesting revocation of a minor’s
parents active in the U.S. Military can use member’ includes the driver’s parents and instructional permit or driver’s license must pay
an out of state driver's education certificate step-parents, grandparents, siblings and step- a non-refundable fee of $10.00.
provided that it is within 9 months of their siblings, children, and any other person who
16th birthday.) resides at the driver’s residence;
License/Permit Suspensions
• During the second six months following is-
Driver Education Requirements
suance, only one passenger under 21 years
Convictions Other Than DUI
• To obtain a Class D license at the age of 16 of age who is not a member of the driver’s
The State of Georgia applies strict penalties to
you must complete a driver education course immediate family may ride in the vehicle;
teens who fail to obey the laws regarding opera-
approved by DDS. An approved driver edu-
• After the first and second six-month periods, tion of a motor vehicle. The instructional permit
cation course consists of:
only three passengers under 21 years of age or driver’s license of any person under 21 years
»» either 30 hours of classroom instruction
who are not members of the driver’s immedi- of age convicted of any of the following offenses
OR completion of an equivalent online
ate family may ride in the vehicle; shall be SUSPENDED for a period of six months
virtual course;
for a first conviction, or for a period of twelve
• A Class D license Holder must, for the 12
AND months for a second or subsequent conviction.
months preceding application for their Class
»» 6 hours of on-the-road experience with a
C license, be free from any convictions for • Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash;
certified instructor OR completion of the
major traffic violations that result in the man-
DDS approved Parent-Teen Driving Guide; • Racing on highways or streets;
datory suspension of a driver’s license.
»» You must also have completed a cumula-
• Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting
tive total of at least 40 hours of other driv-
to elude an officer;
ing experience, including at least 6 hours Teens Moving to Georgia
at night. Completion of the DDS approved • Reckless driving;
Parent-Teen Driving Guide will serve as an The following information applies to teens
• Aggressive driving;
affidavit certifying that this requirement moving to Georgia from another state who wish
has been met; to obtain a driver’s license or permit in Georgia. • Any other offense for which four or more
points are assessed:
NOTE
Under Age 18 without a valid »» Unlawful passing of a school bus;
»» if the teen obtains the on-the-road compo-
license issued by another state »» Improper passing on a hill or curve;
nent of driver’s education from a certified
If you do not already hold a valid driver’s »» Exceeding the speed limit by 24 miles per
instructor, a separate document affirming
license or instructional permit issued by an- hour or more.
that this requirement has been met must
other state, you will be subject to the licensing
be completed at the time of the road test. • The accumulation of four or more points in any
requirements of Georgia residents. Please see
12-month period while under 18 years of age.
• If you have not completed the driver edu- the preceding sections for more information.
cation requirements, you cannot obtain a A limited permit may be available only if
Class D license until you reach the age of 17. Under Age 18 with valid the suspension resulted from a conviction for
For information on approved driver educa- out of state license speeding 24-33 mph over the speed limit and
tion courses and to download the Parent- If you hold a valid driver’s license or instruc- the applicant is at least 18 years old.
Teen Driving Guide, see the DDS website, tional permit issued by another state, you will
dds.georgia.gov. normally be eligible to obtain a comparable Convictions for Driving Under the
license issued by Georgia. However, the state Influence of Drugs or Alcohol (DUI)
of issuance may have requirements for teenage
drivers that differ from Georgia. For more infor- First DUI Suspension:
mation, please call the Customer Contact Center
• If your Blood Alcohol Concentration was .02
at (678) 413-8400.
or greater, but less than .08; or your implied
consent test results were suppressed; or no
Motorcycle Operator’s test was given, your license will be suspend-
Instructional Permit or License ed for a minimum period of 6 months, unless
you have a previous conviction for an offense
Detailed information concerning permit and in the above list, in which case your license
licensing requirements for Motorcycle Opera- will be suspended for a minimum period of
tor’s Permits and Licenses can be found on the 12 months;
Serving Justice DDS website at dds.georgia.gov. Teens under
age 17 must meet the Driver Education Require-
• If your Blood Alcohol Concentration was .08
Across the Nation® ments listed on this page to obtain a Class M
Instructional Permit (MP). A Class M Motor-
or greater or you refused implied consent
testing, your license will be suspended for a
Savings H Checking H Credit Cards minimum period of 12 months;
H Consumer & Real Estate Loans cycle Operator's License is available at age 17.
• No limited driving permit is available.
Revocation of Minor’s Second DUI Suspension:
License/Permit
Join Today! jfcu.org H 800.550.5328 Your license will be suspended for a minimum
period of 18 months, with ignition interlock per-
Federally Insured by NCUA The parent, legal guardian or responsible
mit eligibility after 120 days.
adult who signed a minor’s application for an
33
SECTION 7
SIGNS, SIGNALS Road Signs
& MARKINGS Shapes of Signs
The State of Georgia uses seven basic shapes of signs to convey traffic control instructions.
This Section Covers Drivers should know signs by their shapes and colors so that they may recognize them from a
distance and begin reacting timely and appropriately.
Road Signs............................................................. 34
Shapes of Signs................................................... 34
Regulatory Signs.................................................. 35 Vertical Rectangle
Warning Signs...................................................... 36 signs are generally
Guide Signs.......................................................... 38 used for regulatory
Construction and Maintenance signs, which tell you
Warning Signs...................................................... 39 what you must do.
Service Signs....................................................... 39 You must obey them
in the same manner
Traffic Signals and Signs..................................... 40 as traffic laws.
Lane Control Signals............................................ 40
Overhead Lane Signs........................................... 40
Pedestrian Signals............................................... 40
HAWK Signal........................................................ 41
Pavement Markings.............................................. 42 Horizontal Rectangle Diamond shaped signs warn of existing or possible
Stop Lines............................................................ 42 signs are generally hazards on roadways or adjacent areas. They are
Crosswalk Lines................................................... 42 used as guide signs. yellow with black words indicating the potential
Railroad Crossings .............................................. 42 They show locations, hazard, or black symbols visually describing the
Center Lines......................................................... 42 directions, or other potential hazard.
No Passing Lines.................................................. 42 special information.
Edge Lines............................................................ 42
Lane Lines............................................................ 42
Turn Lanes........................................................... 43
Bicycle Lanes....................................................... 43
Roundabouts........................................................ 43
Traffic Striping..................................................... 42
35
SECTION 7: SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS
Warning Signs
Sharp turn Curve to the right.
Warning signs are usually yellow with black to the right.
markings. (Warning signs can also be fluorescent
green with black markings.) They alert you to
conditions that are immediately ahead. There
may be road hazards, changes in traffic direction,
or some other potentially hazardous situation
that requires action on your part.
Side road enters Another road crosses The road you are
highway ahead at the highway ahead. traveling on ends
an angle. straight ahead. Slow
down and prepare to
yield or stop before
turning right or left.
Traffic merging from These signs alert Drivers must stop and Number of lanes
the right. Prepare to drivers in ad- stay stopped when reduced ahead.
allow traffic to safely vance of areas pedestrians are in the
merge. where animals, crosswalk.
people, and ve-
hicles may be
crossing.
There is no spokesperson with a catchy phrase to remind the driver to slow down, stop eating,
LIk_\Jgfb\jg\ijfe%Zfd quit messing with the radio or pay attention to the road. There’s Only You. Speak Up.
37
SECTION 7: SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS
Guide Signs
Guide signs may indicate what road you are on, and how to get to
your destination. Many guide signs are rectangular, but some have
other shapes. There are several different kinds of guide signs — route
markers, information, destination, distance, and location signs. These
signs may be accompanied by a “To” sign or an arrow, indicating the
highway, facility, or location that can be reached by following the signs.
Here are some examples:
75
The numbers on these signs des-
120
ignate specific exits, interstates
or highways.
Roswell
120
Marietta
Service Signs
While traveling along Georgia’s highways, the fol-
lowing blue and white signs will give directions to
service facilities.
EXPRESS LANES
Express Lanes offer motorists the option to pay a toll to bypass Lanes, all vehicles, including motorcycles and electric vehicles, are
congestion in certain areas on the interstate. All vehicles with no required to pay a toll. Public transit buses, registered vanpools and
more than two axles or up to six wheels can use Express Lanes if emergency response vehicles may use the lanes toll-free if they have
they have a registered Peach Pass. When the vehicle travels through a Peach Pass.
the Express Lane, the toll amount will automatically be deducted
from the pre-established account. There are currently two sets of
Express Lanes in Georgia.
The I-85 Express Lanes are HOT Lanes along I-85 North in Gwinnett
County. They are open 24-hours per day. On the I-85 Express Lanes,
registered transit, three or more person carpools, motorcycles, emer-
gency vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles (AFV) with the proper
AFV license plate are allowed to use the lanes toll-free.
The I-75 South Metro Express Lanes are reversible lanes along
1-75 South in Henry and Clayton counties. Reversible lanes change
directions during the day to provide additional travel options during
peak travel periods. When the travel direction is being reversed, signs
will show the lanes are closed. On the I-75 South Metro Express
39
SECTION 7: SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS
Traffic Signals and Signs
A green arrow means you may pro-
Traffic signals are placed at intersections to control ceed carefully only in the direction
the orderly movement of traffic and to prevent crashes. the arrow is pointing after stopping
Drivers (including bicyclists) and pedestrians must obey for pedestrians and yielding to vehicles
these signals except when an officer is directing traffic. If within the intersection. In this case you
a traffic signal is not functioning at all at an intersection, may go straight ahead only.
all drivers must treat the intersection as if a stop sign is
posted for all directions. If a traffic signal is malfunc- A green arrow, in this case, means
tioning and flashing, drivers must proceed based on the you may turn in the direction of the
color of the flashing signal they are facing: if the driver is arrow after stopping for pedestrians
facing a yellow flashing signal, the driver may proceed and yielding to vehicles within the in-
tersection.
with caution; if the driver is facing a red flashing signal,
the driver must stop and wait until it is safe to proceed.
A yellow arrow may appear after a
green arrow and warns you to clear
A red light means you must make a the intersection.
complete stop before entering the
crosswalk or intersection and wait
until the light turns to green before
proceeding. A red flashing light means you must
stop completely (treat as you would a
stop sign). Proceed with caution only
A yellow light warns that the light is after yielding the right-of-way to pe-
changing from green to red. Slow destrians and to other vehicles at the
down and prepare to stop. intersection.
A yellow flashing light means you must A flashing yellow arrow
slow down and exercise caution before means you may turn left
A green light means you may pro- proceeding through the intersection. after yielding to oncom-
ceed if it is safe to do so after stop- ing traffic and pedestrians
ping for pedestrians and yielding (oncoming traffic still has
to vehicles within the intersection. the green light).
Travel in lane.
Showcase
your business!
Flashing
When a pedestrian presses the button, the signal
is activated. Approaching drivers will see a FLASH-
ING YELLOW signal for a few seconds.
41
SECTION 7: SIGNS, SIGNALS & MARKINGS
Pavement Markings
Pavement markings, like highway signs, are used to warn and direct drivers and to regulate
traffic.
Stop Lines
Stop lines are white lines painted across the pavement at intersections indicating the point beyond
which your vehicle should not cross if you are stopping for a traffic control device. In urban areas, the
line is usually located about four feet before the crosswalk. Drivers must come to a complete stop at
the stop line, when present, not at the actual stop sign or traffic signal.
Crosswalk Lines
These white lines are painted across, or partially across the pavement. Sometimes they will be painted
in a ladder pattern. When pedestrians are in the crosswalks, they have the right-of-way over motor
vehicles. Crosswalks are sometimes in the middle of a block in residential areas, and in some cases,
a pedestrian crossing signal is located at the white line.
G
A
IN
IL
S
S RO
O
R
AD
C
Railroad Crossings
When a road is crossed by a railroad crossing, the pavement is usually marked with a large X and two R’s. At
railroad crossings, a yellow line is always placed on the right side of the center line to prevent passing. The cross-
ing is sometimes equipped with control arms and/or emergency lights, to warn drivers of approaching trains. The
driver of the vehicle must stop if warning signals indicate a train is approaching.
G
A
IN
IL
S
S RO
O
R
AD
C
Center Lines
These are used to separate traffic moving in opposite directions on paved roadways. Broken yellow
lines are used when there are only two lanes and it is safe to pass in either direction.
No Passing Lines
Single Lines
These single, solid yellow lines on two-lane roads indicate zones where passing is prohibited. They will
be located on the right of the broken yellow line when they apply to the lane in which you are traveling.
In some instances, both yellow lines will be solid, indicating it is not safe for passing in either direction.
Double White Lines
These are double white line (dashed or solid) pavement markings on roadways that indicate where
vehicles can or cannot cross to access the adjacent lane. When the double white lines are dashed,
vehicles are allowed to cross over to the adjacent lane. When the double white lines are solid, lane
changes are prohibited.
Edge Lines
These are the solid white lines along the side of the pavement. They serve as safety guides, especially at
night when it is difficult to see the edge of the road. A yellow edge line may be used on the left side to warn
of narrow or raised medians.
Lane Lines
These are the white dashes that mark the individual lanes of travel on streets and highways having more than
one lane for traffic moving in the same direction.
When there are four or more lanes with traffic moving in opposite directions, two solid yellow lines mark the
center of the roadway. You may cross these lines only to make a left turn into or from an alley, private road,
driveway, or another street. When traveling on a multi-lane road, stay in the right lane except to pass other
vehicles traveling in the same direction.
Traffic Striping
These markings, created by diagonal yellow lines, are on streets and highways indi-
cating that the road is narrowing or there is an obstruction on the roadway. The area
is similar to a triangle with solid yellow diagonal lines within the outside lines. Always
keep to the right of these markings.
ROUNDABOUTS
ory roundabout. Stop for pedestrians in the 2
crosswalk. 1
the
of way.
ROUNDABOUTS
Navigating a roundabout
4
4 Navigating a Single Lane Roundabout
ROUNDABOUTS
Single Lane Roundabout
Navigating a Multilane Roundabout Multilane Roundabout
MOTORISTS
Navigating a Single Lane Roundabout Single Lane Roundabout
Roundabouts are sometimes MOTORISTSA
D
used
B
at 1 Approach: Slow downMOTORISTS to the posted advisory
3
intersections instead
1 Approach: Follow
C
the laneof stop
use signs signs.
& pavement The speed. Stop for pedestrians in the
purpose of amarking arrows. Get into the correct
roundabout
lane before entering
2
is to allow
the roundabout.
the crosswalk; they have the right of way.
1 Approach: Slow down to the posted advisory
intersection to Slowhandle heavier
down to the trafficspeed.
posted advisory flow speed. Stop for pedestrians in the
2 Enter: When
crosswalk; theythe
entering roundabout,
have the right of way.
Stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk;
without the need for the
they have a signal or a four-way
right of way.
yield to all circulating vehicles. 4
e Wait for a gap and then merge 4
stop. When entering a roundabout, traffic 2 Enter: When entering the
into traffic
4 roundabout,
ns in the 2 Enter: When2 entering the roundabout, yield to yield to all in the roundabout.
circulating vehicles.
laws concerning right-of-way
1
still
all circulating vehicles in both lanes.apply. 4 Traffic in a roundabout
Wait for a gap and then merge always 4
4
circulates
traffic counterclockwise.
You must yield Wait fortoa gap
other traffic
and then that
merge into is
traffic into in the
D
3
roundabout. D 3
A B
in the roundabout.Traffic in a roundabout Traffic in a roundabout always
already in the roundabout.
always You will al-
circulates counterclockwise. 3 Proceed: circulates
Continue circling through
counterclockwise. A the
B C A
roundabout until you reach the D B
ways enter a Maintain
roundabout your laneto
the roundabout.
as the
you enter
right, and C
2
3
roadway onto which
3 Proceed: Continue circling through the you want
continue circling until you have reached
Multilane Roundabout to turn.
roundabout until you reach the
C
the3 roadway
Proceed: Continue circling through the roundabout KEY
onto which you want to turn.
until you reach the roadway onto which roadway onto2 which you want 2
4 Exit: Signal,
to turn. then bear right to exit the
When reaching the to
you want desired
turn. Do notroad,
changeyou laneswill
in = Pedestrian
Crosswalk Sign roundabout. Stop 1
for pedestrians in the 2
vement
orrect always exit tothethe roundabout.
right. = Yield4Sign
Exit: crosswalk.
Signal,
2
then bear right to exit the
1
about. 4 Exit: Signal, then bear right to exit the A Pedestrian Refuge roundabout.1
Stop for pedestrians in the 2
crosswalk. 1
ory speed. roundabout. Stop for B Crosswalk
sswalk; pedestrians in the crosswalk.
C Truck Apron
4
D Center Island
, yield to
anes. 4 Navigating a Multilane Roundabout Multilane Roundabout
3
*Please note that these roundabout diagrams are examples
into traffic only and do not represent MOTORISTS
all roundabout designs.
D Multilane Roundabout
oundabout Navigating a Multilane Roundabout
wise. B Approach: Follow the MOTORISTS lane use signs & pavement
PEDESTRIANS
A 1
r C marking arrows. CYCLISTS Get into the correct
1 lane before
Approach: Follow the laneentering the roundabout.
use signs & pavement
Experienced Slowcyclists
down may
marking arrows. Getto navigate
the posted roundabouts
into advisory
the correctspeed.
1 Approach: At the pedestrian crosswalk, look to make
oundabout KEY like motorists.
Stop
lane Do notpedestrians
for
before hug the curb.
entering in Ride
the the in the
crosswalk;
roundabout.
sure cars stop2 for you. Use pedestrian
to which middle of the lane to prevent vehicles from
crossing signal if available. they have
Slow downthe rightposted
to the of way. advisory speed.
e lanes in = Pedestrian 1 passing you. Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. 4
Crosswalk Sign Stop for pedestrians in the crosswalk;
2 Cross: Cross to2 the pedestrian refuge. When entering the roundabout, yield to
= Yield Sign 2 Children orthey
Enter: have
cyclists whotheare
right
notof way.
comfortable
Look to make sure cars stop for you. 4
he A Pedestrian Refuge entering theallflow
circulating
of traffic vehicles
should walk in both
their lanes. 4
Finish crossing
1 to the opposite sidewalk. 3
2 cycles and When
Enter: Wait
act asfor entering
a gap and
pedestrians. the roundabout,
then merge into yieldtraffic
to
B Crosswalk Never cross to the center island. all
in thecirculating vehicles in both
roundabout.Traffic lanes.
in a roundabout 4 D
Wait
always forcirculates
a gap andcounterclockwise.
then merge into traffic 3 B
C Truck Apron D A
in the roundabout.Traffic
Maintain your lane as youinenter a roundabout C
D Center Island always circulates counterclockwise.
the roundabout. B
A
Maintain your lane as you enter C
*Please note that these roundabout diagrams are examples 3 Proceed: the roundabout.
Continue circling through the roundabout
only and do not represent all roundabout designs. KEY 2
until you reach the roadway onto which
3 Proceed: Continue
you want circling
to turn. through the roundabout
Do not change lanes in KEY
= Pedestrian 1
Crosswalk Sign 2
CYCLISTS until you reach the roadway onto which
the roundabout. 2
you want to turn. Do not change lanes in ==Pedestrian
Yield Sign 1
Crosswalk Sign
Experienced cyclists may navigate roundabouts 4 Exit: the
Signal,roundabout.
then bear right to exit the A Pedestrian Refuge 2
1
ok to make = Yield Sign
like motorists. Do not hug the curb. Ride in the roundabout. Stop for Crosswalk Refuge
destrian Signal, then inbear AB Pedestrian
middle of the lane to prevent vehicles from 4 Exit: pedestrians theright to exit the
crosswalk. 1
passing you. Stop for pedestrians in crosswalks. roundabout. Stop for BC Crosswalk
Truck Apron
pedestrians in the crosswalk.
. CD Truck
Center Island
Children or cyclists who are not comfortable Apron
or you.
entering the flow of traffic should walk their
sidewalk. D Center*Please
Island note that these roundabout diagrams are examples
cycles and act as pedestrians.
d. only and do not represent all roundabout designs.
*Please note that these roundabout diagrams are examples
only and do not represent all roundabout designs.
PEDESTRIANS CYCLISTS
PEDESTRIANS
Experienced cyclistsCYCLISTS
may navigate roundabouts
1 Approach: At the pedestrian crosswalk, look to make
like motorists. Do not hug the curb. Ride in the
sure cars stop for you. Use pedestrian Experienced cyclists may navigate roundabouts
1 Approach: At the pedestrian crosswalk, look to make middle of the lane to prevent vehicles from
crossing signal if available. like motorists. Do not
sure cars stop for you. Use pedestrian passing you. Stop forhug the curb. in
pedestrians Ride in the
crosswalks.
middle of the lane to prevent vehicles from
2 Cross: crossing signal if available.
Cross to the pedestrian refuge. passing
Childrenyou. Stop forwho
or cyclists pedestrians in crosswalks.
are not comfortable
Look to make sure cars stop for you.
2 Cross: Cross
Finish to the pedestrian
crossing refuge. sidewalk.
to the opposite
entering the flow of traffic should walk their
Children or cyclists who are not comfortable 43
Look cycles and act as pedestrians.
Nevertocross
maketosure
the cars stop
center for you.
island. entering the flow of traffic should walk their
Finish crossing to the opposite sidewalk.
SECTION 8
SAFETY Traffic laws alone cannot regulate every type
of driving situation that may occur. There are
Hydroplaning
GUIDELINES some general rules which drivers should under- Hydroplaning occurs when there is standing
stand and follow. Read this chapter with care. water on a roadway. At speeds up to 35 mph,
Someday these safety tips might help you avoid most tires will channel water away from the tire
This Section Covers a crash, serious injury, or even death. These are similar to the way a windshield wiper cleans
only general statements and cannot dictate your the windshield. As your speed increases, tires
Entering the Car.................................................... 44 actions in all situations. It is up to you to evalu- cannot channel the water as well, and your
Steering.................................................................. 44 ate the situation and make a determination as tires may start to lose contact with the road
to the best course of action. and ride over the water like a set of water skis.
Fog.......................................................................... 44
In a standard passenger car, partial hydroplan-
Hydroplaning......................................................... 44 ing can begin at speeds as low as 35 mph. At
Entering the Car 55 mph, the tires may lose all contact with the
Skidding................................................................. 44
road. If this occurs, there is no friction avail-
Curves.................................................................... 44 • Develop a routine for entering the car safely
able to brake, accelerate, or steer. It is possible
and preparing for your trip. If you are parked
Leaving the Roadway........................................... 45 for the vehicle to go into an unpredictable and
on the street, enter from the curb side of the
Tire Blow-Out......................................................... 45 uncontrollable skid. If this occurs, take your
vehicle. If this is not possible, wait until your
foot off of the accelerator, letting the car slow
Winter Driving........................................................ 45 entry can be made with reasonable safety and
down. To prevent hydroplaning, maintain good
without interfering with the flow of traffic;
Carbon Monoxide.................................................. 45 tires with adequate water-channeling thread
• Have your keys ready, and approach the ve- on your vehicle. Most importantly, slow down
Steering Locks...................................................... 46 hicle facing traffic; when there is water on the roadway.
Following Too Closely........................................... 46
• Adjust your seat and mirrors;
Speed and Stopping Distance............................. 46
• Check passengers to be sure they are properly
Skidding
Expressway Driving.............................................. 46 seated and do not interfere with your view;
Entering Expressways.......................................... 46 A car skids when its tires lose their grip on
Exiting Expressways............................................ 46 • Before starting your ignition, fasten your the road surface. When a car skids, both the
Use of Lanes on Expressways............................. 46 seat belt and make sure your passengers do power that the engine sends to the wheels and
the same; the braking ability of the wheels are lost. Slick
Gores.................................................................... 46
surfaces can exaggerate normal movements.
HOV Lanes............................................................ 46 • After starting your vehicle, check around
If brakes are applied too hard, or the wheel is
Tips for Expressway Driving................................ 46 your vehicle for hazards or approaching traf-
turned too sharp, a skid can occur.
fic, including bicyclists and pedestrians, give
Other Highway Emergencies
the proper signal and move cautiously into If you start to skid:
Protecting the Air.................................................. 47 the stream of traffic.
• ease your foot off of the accelerator;
Idling Engines........................................................ 47
• begin turning the steering wheel in the direc-
Steering tion of the skid;
Good posture while driving is important • once you have regained control of the vehicle,
because it allows a better view of hazards and you can lightly apply brakes and steer in a
more control of the vehicle. As a general rule, safe direction.
TIRE PRESSURE when gripping the steering wheel, place your
left hand at the 9 o’clock position and your right
hand at the 3 o’clock position on the wheel. Some
Prior to entering vehicle check tire pressure manufacturers recommend placing your hands
using recommended psi located in the door at 8 o’clock and 4 o’clock positions when the
jam of the vehicle. Use a tire pressure gauge to vehicle is equipped with air bags. Check your
check your psi. If your psi is above the num- owner’s manual or contact your vehicle manu-
ber listed on your door jam, let air out until facturer to determine which position is best for
it matches. If below, add air (or have a retailer your vehicle. Always keep both hands on the
help you) until it reaches the proper number. wheel unless you are safely performing another Remember, the first half-hour of rainfall is
driving-related task, such as activating your the most dangerous because roadways become
You may also measure tread depth using
turn signal. extremely slippery when the water mixes with
the penny test. Once every month, or before
oil and other chemicals on the road surfaces.
you embark upon a long road trip, check
your tires for wear and damage problems. Fog
One easy way to check for wear is by using Curves
the penny test. If possible, avoid driving in heavy fog. If you
must drive, follow these guidelines: Curves in a roadway are potential sources of
1. Take a penny and hold Abraham Lincoln's
hazard for drivers. Because of the maneuvering
body between your thumb and forefinger. • Reduce driving speed;
involved, it is more likely that a less cautious
2. Select a point on your tire where the tread • Reduce speed further when you see head- driver may fail to maintain their lane while
appears the lowest and place Lincoln's lights or red tail lights. These indicate the driving through a curve. When roadways are
head into one of the grooves. presence of another vehicle and, due to fog, slick because of rain or other hazards, curves
it may be more difficult to accurately judge can be especially dangerous and require much
3. If any part of Lincoln's head is covered
the distance between your vehicle and others; lower speeds than when the road is dry. Sharper
by the tread, you're driving with the legal
curves are usually marked with a safe miles-
and safe amount of tread. If your tread • Dim your headlights. Bright lights produce a
per-hour sign. Usually less than the posted
gets below that (approximately 2/32 of glare in heavy fog, actually making it more
speed limit, these advisory signs indicate that
an inch), your car's ability to grip the road difficult to see than when using regular
the reduced speed shown will make driving
in adverse conditions is greatly reduced. headlights;
through a curve safer.
• Do not drive with parking or hazard lights on.
45
SECTION 8: SAFETY GUIDELINES
Move a victim of carbon monoxide poisoning • Chassis (frame) design; Use of Lanes on Expressways
to fresh air, contact emergency medical services, Drivers operating vehicles on divided high-
• Type of brakes, condition, and balance of
and give artificial respiration if it is necessary ways must drive to the right of the median un-
brakes;
and you are trained to do so. less directed to do otherwise by a sign, traffic
• Wind direction and velocity. control device, or police officer. Drivers must
obey the yellow or white striping on the roadway
Steering Locks Speed is a leading factor in serious injury and
that indicates lanes, the convergence of lanes,
death as a result of traffic crashes. The greater
or areas in which vehicles should not operate.
Steering locks are anti-theft devices found in the speed, the greater the force of impact. The
Drivers may only access or exit controlled-access
most cars manufactured since 1969. illustration below conveys the relative force of
roadways at designated entrances and exits.
Steering locks can cause dangerous situations impact when you strike a fixed object.
for drivers who are not familiar with their opera-
Gores
tion. If a vehicle’s ignition is placed in the lock
The term “gore” means the area of conver-
position while the vehicle is in motion, the steer-
gence between two lanes of traffic. The gore is
ing capability of the vehicle will be disabled, and
the area, usually similar to a triangle, formed
the driver will be unable to steer the vehicle.
by solid white lines between an existing lane of
Further information concerning steering
travel and a merging lane of travel. Gores are
locks is available from the Automobile Safety
most often seen at the convergence of an ac-
Foundation at www.carsafe.org.
celeration lane and the adjacent travel lane on
a controlled access highway. The gore is the area
Following Too Closely bounded by solid white lines between the ac-
celeration lane and the adjacent travel lane.
A rear-end crash is caused by following an- Drivers entering the controlled access highway
other vehicle too closely. When following an- are prohibited by law from crossing this solid
other vehicle on any street or highway, there white line, and are required to continue travel-
must be enough distance for you to safely stop ing in the acceleration lane until the solid white
if the vehicle in front of you suddenly slows line disappears.
down or stops. One way to determine if there is
enough distance between your vehicle and the
vehicle in front of you is to measure the amount
of time between when the vehicle in front of
Expressway Driving
you passes a reference point and when your
An expressway differs from normal roads
vehicle passes the same reference point. Watch
or highways in that access to it is controlled.
the car ahead of you. When it passes a reference HOV Lanes
Vehicles can only enter and exit the expressway
point, such as a telephone pole or street sign, High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are
at specific places known as interchanges. Most
count “one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two.” travel lanes that are restricted to vehicles with
expressways in Georgia are free, but there are
If you pass the same spot before you are through more than one occupant, buses, motorcycles, and
a few that require a toll.
counting, you are following too closely. During vehicles with Alternative Fuel Vehicle license
With the exception of the controlled enter/
inclement weather, during construction, during plates. The lanes are marked with a diamond
exit points and HOV lanes, expressways are
heavy traffic, and always at night, the distance symbol and the hours of restriction are posted.
similar to traveling on a divided highway. There
between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of The penalty for violating HOV lane restrictions is
is a median separating traffic traveling in op-
you should be even greater. a fine up to $75 for a first offense; up to $100 for a
posite directions; lanes are marked with dashed
second offense; up to $150 for a third offense; and
lines, and the edge of the roadway is marked
up to $150 plus one point added to the violator’s
Speed and Stopping Distance with a solid line; slower traffic should keep to
driving record for a fourth or subsequent offense.
the right; and all traffic laws and guidelines
The distance it takes to stop your vehicle is associated with safe driving still apply.
important in determining a safe driving speed.
The chart below may be used as a guide, but Entering Expressways
actual stopping distance can depend on the The entrance ramp is a short one-way road
following factors in addition to vehicle speed: that leads to the expressway. From the entrance
ramp, you should move into the acceleration
lane. This is the lane that runs alongside the
main roadway. In the acceleration lane, you
can adjust your speed to the speed of the ex-
pressway traffic. When safe to do so, you should
merge into traffic. Vehicles on the expressway HOV LANES
have the right of way, but courteous drivers will Double White Lines (No Entry)
permit you to move into the expressway traffic. Dashed White Line (You May Enter)
Exiting Expressways
Prepare to exit a controlled access highway
HOT Lanes
by safely moving to the right lane for an exit on
High Occupancy Toll (HOT) lanes are I-85
the right, or the left lane for an exit on the left.
Express Lanes that allow registered transit, three
Guide signs will tell you of the approaching exit.
or more person carpool, motorcycles, emergency
At the exit, deceleration lanes are provided for
vehicles, and Alternative Fuel Vehicles to use the
slowing down when leaving the expressway.
lanes toll-free.
Posted exit speeds are usually low due to the
• Mental and physical reaction of the driver; design of the roadway. Drivers should use either
Tips For Expressway Driving
brake lights or a turn signal to indicate a change
• Type and condition of the pavement;
in speed to the drivers behind if slowing down • Plan your trip carefully. Mark the map to
• Kind of tires and tread composition; in the traveling lane when preparing to exit. indicate all entrances, service areas, and exits
47
SECTION 9
SHARING • When entering a street or highway from an
alley, driveway, or private road;
Passing Stopped Cars
in Lanes of Travel
THE ROAD • When approaching a blind person who is
Use extreme caution when passing stopped
cars on multi-lane roads. A pedestrian you can’t
crossing a street or highway if he/she is car-
see may be crossing in a marked or unmarked
This Section Covers rying a white cane or being guided by a dog.
crosswalk. This is a frequent cause of serious
or fatal pedestrian injuries. When you stop at
Sharing the Road With Pedestrians.................... 48 Crosswalks
a crosswalk on a multi-lane road, stop at least
Georgia’s Law Concerning Pedestrians............... 48 Crosswalks exist on all four corners of in-
10 feet before the crosswalk so a driver in the
Crosswalks........................................................... 48 tersections even when they are not marked by
next lane can see the pedestrian.
Respect Crosswalks............................................. 48 painted lines. A crosswalk is the part of the pave-
Blind Pedestrians................................................. 48 ment for pedestrian traffic where the sidewalk
Exiting and Entering Driveways
would extend across the street. Crosswalks can
Always Remain Alert for When exiting or entering a driveway, alley,
also exist mid-block if they are marked.
Pedestrians When Driving.................................... 48 or parking garage, drivers must stop before the
Turning Right at a Red Traffic Signal................... 48 sidewalk area and proceed only after pedestri-
Passing Stopped Cars in Lanes of Travel............. 48 ans have safely passed. Drivers waiting to turn
Exiting and Entering Driveways........................... 48 left into a driveway must wait not only for a gap
Vehicle Speed....................................................... 48 in oncoming traffic, but also for pedestrians
to finish crossing the sidewalk portion of the
Sharing the Road With Bicycles.......................... 48 driveway.
Important Reminders Concerning
Bicycle Riders....................................................... 49 Vehicle Speed
Arm Signals Used by Bicyclists............................ 49 Pedestrians are less protected from the harm-
Sharing the Road With Motorcycles................... 49 ful effects of a crash than occupants of motor
Allow a Full Lane.................................................. 49 vehicles. The risk of serious or fatal pedestrian
Road Conditions................................................... 49 injuries increase exponentially with driver speed.
Intersections........................................................ 49 This chart illustrates the effect of speed upon
Following Too Close............................................. 49 a pedestrian who is struck by a motor vehicle.
When a pedestrian is struck by a motor vehicle
Passing and Being Passed................................... 49 Respect Crosswalks
traveling 40mph, the risk of pedestrian death
Partners on the Road........................................... 49 When pedestrians are in crosswalks, they
is at least 80%.
Sharing the Road With School Buses................. 50 have the right of way over motor vehicles. Do
not block crosswalks. When stopping at red
Sharing the Road With lights or stop signs, always stop your vehicle Sharing the Road With Bicycles
Commercial Motor Vehicles................................. 50 before the crosswalk so pedestrians can cross
safely. Bicycle riding is an important type of trans-
Even at crosswalks without traffic signals, portation, particularly for traveling to work and
drivers must stop and remain stopped for pe- to school. Because bicyclists may be on any road
Sharing the Road destrians in the crosswalk when the pedestrian at any time, drivers must always be alert for
With Pedestrians is upon the half of the roadway or approaching bicycle traffic.
and within one lane of the half of the roadway
While there has been an increase of motor
upon which the vehicle is traveling. “Half of
vehicles on our roads, the number of persons
the roadway” means all traffic lanes carrying
traveling by foot is also growing. According
traffic in one direction of travel.
to the Georgia Department of Transportation,
pedestrians account for almost 15% of motor
Blind Pedestrians
vehicles deaths. In 2016, Georgia had a 15% in-
Pedestrians using guide dogs or white walk-
crease in pedestrian deaths. Distractions are
ing canes must be given the right of way at all
believed to be a contributing factor. It is critical
times.
that pedestrians and motorists pay attention to
safely share the road. Bike-car crashes often happen because driv-
Always Remain Alert for
ers do not see bicyclists soon enough. In Georgia,
Pedestrians When Driving
Georgia’s Law Concerning as in other states, most crashes occur during
Look for pedestrians on both sides of the
Pedestrians daylight hours on straight, dry roads, typically
street when approaching intersections, when
The driver of a vehicle shall stop and remain near intersections or driveways.
turning, or near schools, parks, bus stops and
stopped to allow a pedestrian to cross the road- Bicyclists are legally entitled to use every
other places people are likely to walk. Look
way within a crosswalk: road in Georgia except the interstate and inter-
behind your car for children or other pedes-
state-like highways (limited access highways).
• When the pedestrian is upon the half of the trians before backing up in driveways and
The law allows bicyclists use of the full lane.
roadway on which the vehicle is traveling, or parking lots.
They are not required to be in a bike lane even
when the pedestrian is approaching and is
when one is present. Although their slower pace
within one lane of the half of the roadway on Turning Right at a Red Traffic Signal
may slow motorists occasionally, it is important
which the vehicle is traveling or onto which Before turning right on red, drivers must
for drivers to respect the bicyclist’s right to be
it is turning. “Half of the roadway” means come to a full and complete stop before the
there. Yield the right of way to the bicyclist in
all traffic lanes carrying traffic in one direc- crosswalk. Do not block the crosswalk when
the same way that you would yield to another
tion of travel; waiting to make a right turn at a red light. This
motorist. If possible, make eye contact with the
puts pedestrians at risk, forcing them to walk
• When making a left or right turn at any in- bicyclist, especially at intersections.
around your vehicle. After looking to your left
tersection; Road defects cause more problems for bi-
to find a gap in traffic, you must look to your
cycles than for cars. When passing a bicycle
• At stop signs, after coming to a complete stop passenger side to ensure a pedestrian is not
rider, leave the bicyclist plenty of room in case
and before proceeding; crossing in front of your vehicle.
he or she has to swerve to miss a pothole or
• At traffic signals, even when the light is green, other danger in the road. The minimum legal
if pedestrians are still in the crosswalk; space for a motorist to pass a bicyclist is 3 feet.
49
SECTION 9: SHARING THE ROAD
Sharing the Road With Sharing the Road With
School Buses Commercial Motor Vehicles
In most cases, all drivers are required to Commercial motor vehicles are vital to the
stop when approaching or meeting a stopped economy of Georgia and the United States. Most
school bus that has its lights flashing and is of the products used in every day life were
loading or unloading passengers. The exception delivered to stores by commercial motor ve-
to this rule is when highways are separated in hicles. Drivers of commercial motor vehicles are
the center by median strips. In this situation, trained, specially licensed driving professionals.
only vehicles following or traveling alongside Sharing the road with commercial motor ve-
a school bus in the same direction must stop. hicles is a necessary part of travel. Heavy trucks
A warning will be given in advance by the typically weigh 80,000 pounds or more, and driv-
flashing red or amber lights on the front and ers should use caution when driving near them.
rear of the bus. After stopping, you must remain Everyone should be aware of the differ-
stopped until the bus resumes motion or deac- ences between trucks and cars and behave ac
tivates its warning signals AND all loading or cordingly. These include:
unloading passengers have cleared the roadway.
• A fully loaded tractor-trailer, traveling 55 mph,
needs 3 times the distance a car needs to stop;
• Large trucks are more difficult to maneuver,
are longer and heavier, and require much
more room to turn;
• Large trucks have larger blind spots, called
“No-Zones.”
GEORGIA FINES & PENALTIES The “No-Zone” represents the danger areas
around trucks and buses where crashes are
• Mandatory court appearance; • Up to 6 points on driving record; more likely to occur. Some No-Zones are actual
blind spots or areas around trucks and buses
• Up to $1000 fine; • A conviction under 21 years of age where your car “disappears” from the view of
constitutes license suspension. the drivers. These blind spots are the Side No-
Zone, Rear No-Zone, and Front No-Zone areas.
51
SECTION 10
ments have been completed. At the end of the • Failure to appear in court or respond to a
LOSING YOUR withdrawal period, a resident may apply for citation;
DRIVING PRIVILEGES reinstatement and return of the license or the
• Non-payment of Child Support;
eligibility to obtain a license. Non-residents may
apply for reinstatement of driving privileges. • Non-payment of the Super Speeder fee;
This Section Covers Disqualification of Commercial
• Safety responsibility;
Types of Withdrawals........................................... 52 Driver’s License • Medical revocation;
If a commercial driver’s license is disquali-
Reporting Convictions.......................................... 52 • Parent requested revocation (under age 18).
fied, all privileges to operate a commercial mo-
Types of Suspensions........................................... 52 tor vehicle are withdrawn for a specific period of The Department is required by law to sus-
Implied Consent.................................................... 52 time. At the end of the disqualification period, pend the privileges of an individual for a convic-
if a licensee holds a CDL license that is not ex- tion of any of the following offenses:
The Points System ............................................... 54 pired, the licensee’s commercial privileges will
Points Reduction.................................................. 54 • Homicide by vehicle;
be automatically restored without any action
Points Avoidance.................................................. 54 required, provided that the licensee is otherwise • Feticide by Vehicle (1st degree);
Safety Responsibility Law................................... 54 eligible to still maintain a commercial driver’s
• Serious injury by vehicle;
license. If the licensee does not hold a CDL at
Mandatory Revocations....................................... 54 the expiration of the disqualification period, • Driving under the influence of alcohol or
Limited Driving Permits....................................... 54 the licensee’s ability to apply for a CDL will drugs;
Commercial Driving Disqualifications................ 55 be restored.
• Any felony in the commission of which a
A disqualification of commercial driving
Major Traffic Violations........................................ 55 motor vehicle is used;
privileges does not, by itself, result in the sus-
Serious Traffic Violations..................................... 55
pension or revocation of a licensee’s privileges • Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or attempting
Other Violations..................................................... 55 to operate a NON-commercial motor vehicle. to elude an officer;
However, many offenses that result in a com-
• Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash;
mercial disqualification also result in a non-
commercial suspension, though the periods of • Racing;
withdrawal may differ. In Georgia, it is possible
The State of Georgia considers dangerous and • Operating a motor vehicle with a revoked,
to lose commercial driving privileges for LIFE
negligent drivers to be a direct and immediate canceled, or suspended registration;
upon the conviction of certain offenses. More
threat to the welfare and safety of the general
information related to the commercial driver’s • Driving without insurance;
public, and it is in the best interest of the citizens
license program is available on our website at
of Georgia to immediately remove such drivers • Driving while license is suspended, revoked,
dds.georgia.gov.
from the highways of this state. Therefore, the or canceled;
Department of Driver Services is authorized
• Refusal to weigh commercial motor vehicle;
to withdraw the license or driving privileges Reporting Convictions
when evidence is obtained that the licensee is • Violation of license restriction (at the discre-
a habitually dangerous or negligent driver of Georgia courts are required by law to report tion of the trial court).
a motor vehicle (from Georgia law §40-5-57) the conviction of any offense that will result in a
In addition to the offenses listed above, the li-
negative impact on a licensee’s driving privilege
cense and/or driving privileges of an individual
or that is otherwise required to be posted to the
Types of Withdrawals permanent driving history of an individual.
under the age of 21 on the date of the conviction
will be suspended for the following offenses:
This includes most traffic-related offenses as
The driver’s license of any individual, the eli-
well as certain non-traffic related offenses. • Reckless driving;
gibility to obtain a driver’s license, or the ability
When the DDS receives a conviction for a
to legally operate a motor vehicle in the State of • Aggressive driving;
Georgia license holder, the record is updated to
Georgia may be impacted by one or more of the
reflect the conviction. If a conviction is received • Speeding 24 mph or more over the speed
following actions:
for an individual who holds a license from an- limit;
other state or is the resident of another state,
Cancellation • Unlawful passing of a school bus;
the conviction information will be forwarded
The Department of Driver Services is autho-
to the licensing authority of that state. If a non- • Improper passing on a hill or a curve;
rized to cancel a license if the applicant fails to
resident, or a resident of Georgia who does not
give the required or correct information needed • Any 4-point offense;
have a driver’s license, is convicted of certain of-
at the time application is made, or if the indi-
fenses, the eligibility to obtain a Georgia driver’s • Four or more points in 12 months prior to
vidual becomes otherwise ineligible after ap-
license and/or driving privileges in Georgia age 18;
plication has been made. A resident may reapply
will be suspended.
for a license once the requirements have been
Convictions reported to the Georgia DDS by
satisfied and the resident is otherwise eligible.
licensing authorities or courts in other states and
nations will be placed on the driving record of
Revocation
a Georgia licensee or resident. The Department
If a license is revoked, all driving privileges
will treat such convictions as if they had oc-
are terminated and withdrawn until the end
curred in this state for the purpose of imposing
of the period of time prescribed by the formal
license withdrawals.
action of the Department. At the end of the re-
vocation period, a resident may apply for a new
license. Non-residents may apply for reinstate- Types of Suspensions
ment of driving privileges.
The Department will suspend the driving
Suspension privileges of an individual in any of the follow-
If a license is suspended, all driving privi- ing non-conviction situations:
leges are temporarily withdrawn for a specific
• Refusal to take a chemical test for intoxica-
period of time or until reinstatement require-
tion;
Georgia law requires you to submit to state Violation of Hands Free Law - 1st Conviction 1
administered chemical tests of your blood, Child Restraint – 1 Offense st
1
breath, urine, or other bodily substances for
the purpose of determining if you are under HOV Lane Violation – 4th and Subsequent Offense 1
the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you refuse Violation of Hands Free Law - 2nd Conviction 2
this testing, your Georgia driver's license or
privilege to drive on the highways of this state Possessing an Open Container of an Alcoholic Beverage While Driving 2
will be suspended for a minimum period of one
year. Your refusal to submit to blood or urine Speeding – 15-18 mph over the posted speed limit 2
testing may be offered into evidence at trial. If Child Restraint – 2nd and Subsequent Offense 2
you submit to testing and the results indicate a
blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at or above Failure to Adequately Secure a Load 2
the legal limit, your Georgia driver's license or Violation of Hands Free Law - 3rd or more Convictions 3
privilege to drive on the highways of this state
may be suspended for a minimum period of Impeding Traffic 3
one year. After first submitting to the required
state tests, you are entitled to additional chemi- Disobedience of Any Traffic-Control Device or Traffic Officer 3
cal tests of your blood, breath, urine, or other Speeding – 19-23 mph over the posted speed limit 3
bodily substances at your own expense and
from qualified personnel of your own choosing. All Other Moving Violations 3
Reckless Driving 4
Improper Passing on Hill or Curve 4
Speeding – 24-33 mph over the posted speed limit 4
Aggressive Driving 6
Speeding – 34 mph or more over the posted speed limit 6
Unlawful Passing School Bus 6
S K I P A S T E P N O W > >
F A S T E R
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S E C U R E
·∙
C O N V E N I E N T
·∙
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c o m e i n
f o r y o u r v i s i t .
53
SECTION 10: LOSING YOUR DRIVING PRIVILEGES
The Points System Safety Responsibility Law pension period. A limited driving permit would
allow you to only:
The Department is required by law to sus- The purpose of this law is to remove irre-
• Drive to your place of employment;
pend the Georgia license of an individual for an sponsible drivers from Georgia highways and
accumulation of points resulting from certain to protect insured motorists from uninsured • Receive scheduled medical attention or ob-
convictions. Points are assessed against Georgia motorists. In the event you should fail to sat- tain prescribed drugs;
residents for out-of-state violations which would isfy a claim for damage resulting from a motor
• Attend classes at a college or school in which
be assessed points if committed within Georgia. vehicle crash, and a claim is filed against you
you are enrolled as a student;
Georgia licenses will be suspended as follows: under the Safety Responsibility Law, you will
receive an order suspending your license. • Attend regularly scheduled sessions or meet-
• For any person who accumulates 15 or more
To avoid the suspension, you may: ings of support organizations for the treat-
points within 24 months;
ment of alcohol or other drugs;
• Have your insurance carrier file Form SR-21
• For any person under the age of 21 with a
with the DDS if you were covered by liability • Attend a driver education program or alco-
conviction for any 4-point violation;
insurance at the time of the crash; or hol/drug assessment and treatment program;
• For any person under 18 years of age with
• File either a general or a conditional release • Attend court, report to a probation office or
an accumulation of 4 points within twelve
that has been signed by the claimant (injured officer, or perform community service;
months.
party in the crash) with the DDS; or
• Transport unlicensed immediate family
Points are accumulated on a person’s driving
• Post security to cover the damages with the members to work, medical care and to obtain
record as a result of certain convictions. The
DDS, which may be a cashier’s check, certi- prescriptions, and to school.
adjacent chart lists these convictions and the
fied check, money order, real property bond
number of points associated with each. The date The Department may also specify the places
or surety bond, in addition to posting of fi-
the violation occurred is used as the basis for you may travel to, specific routes of travel, times
nancial responsibility, Form SR-22A.
determining the 24-month period (or 12-month of travel, and indicate vehicles, or other restric-
period for persons under age 18). When a license Any security or bond posted with the Depart- tions deemed necessary. Limited driving permits
is suspended due to an accumulation of points, ment will be held for one year and thereafter are not valid for driving a commercial vehicle.
the point total is restored to zero. until proof is furnished to the Department that A limited driving permit will be revoked by
In the case of a person age 18 up to 21, the you have not been sued as a result of the crash. the Department if you are convicted of violating
suspension of the license for a single 4-point You are entitled to a hearing, if desired, and any state law or local ordinance relating to the
offense is determined by the date the convic- if requested within ten (10) days of the receipt movement of vehicles or if you are convicted
tion occurred. A plea of nolo contendere is con- of the order of suspension. of violating any of the conditions or restric-
sidered a conviction for purposes of imposing tions of your permit. In addition, a conviction
suspensions that apply to persons under age 21. will extend the underlying suspension of your
Mandatory Revocations driving privilege for an additional 6 months.
Points Reduction Limited driving permits are not available for
Your driver’s license will be revoked in Geor-
Licensed Georgia residents may request that convictions of the following offenses or in the
gia if any of the following occur:
DDS reduce the number of points assessed following situations:
against their Georgia driver’s license up to 7 • You are declared a Habitual Violator based
• Implied Consent refusal (may be available if
points once every 5 years. upon the third conviction of any combination
no prior DUI conviction within past 5 years);
To qualify for a points reduction, you must of these offenses within 5 years:
successfully complete a certified 6-hour driver »» Driving under the Influence (DUI); • No Insurance convictions;
improvement (defensive driving) course and »» Homicide by vehicle;
• Driving while license suspended convictions;
present the original certificate of completion »» Feticide by vehicle;
to the DDS by mail or in person at one of our »» Serious injury by vehicle; • Failure to pay super speeder fee;
Customer Service Centers. »» Hit and run or leaving the scene of a crash;
• Failure to pay child support;
If you request a points reduction by mail, »» Racing;
please mail the original driver improvement »» Using a motor vehicle in fleeing or at- • Failure to appear in court or respond to a
(defensive driving) certificate of completion tempting to elude an officer; citation;
to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, »» Operating a motor vehicle with a sus-
• Medical revocation;
P.O. Box 80447, Conyers, Georgia 30013. A list of pended, canceled, or revoked registration;
certified driver improvement (defensive driv- »» Any felony in the commission of which a • Safety responsibility;
ing) courses can be found at the following link: motor vehicle is used; or
• Parent requested revocation;
https://online.dds.ga.gov/ddsgeorgiagov/
• Refusal to submit to a re-examination of driv-
locations/driver-improvement-schools. • DUI Drugs
ing skills or knowledge of driving rules after
aspx.
receiving notice giving reasonable grounds • DUI convictions prior to age 21; and
for such a request;
Points Avoidance • Refusal to weigh (CMV).
A defendant may successfully complete a • If you have been declared incompetent or if
A limited driving permit may be available
certified 6-hour driver improvement (defensive there is sufficient evidence that you are un-
in the following situations, depending on your
driving) course after the issuance of a citation safe to drive, due to mental health or physical
age and the number of convictions on your
for a moving violation and prior to the court disability or disease, or by alcohol or drug
driving record:
appearance, or as ordered by the court. When addiction.
the original certificate of completion is pre- • 1st DUI (non-drugs);
If you are declared a Habitual Violator, you
sented to the court, the court shall reduce the
may be eligible for a Probationary License after • 2nd DUI conviction in 5 years;
fine assessed by 20 percent and no points shall
serving two years of the revocation period.
be assessed against the driver. This plea may • DUI ALS;
be accepted by the court once every five years.
• Under 21 speeding violation but only if age
Limited Driving Permits 18 or older, speeding was 24-33 mph over
the posted speed limit, and approved by the
In some situations, a limited driving permit
sentencing court judge;
may be available for a fee of $25 during the sus-
55
SECTION 11
CRASHES Aiding the Injured moved the vehicles, nor does moving the ve-
hicles affect their ability to file a written report
Do not assume that a person is not injured with a local police agency. Moving a vehicle
simply because that person says he/she is not. in this situation does not allow for the driver
This Section Covers Send for professional help as soon as possible. to be accused of failing to stop and provide
Unskilled handling can cause further and more information.
If You Are Involved In A Crash............................. 56
severe injuries. Do not move or lift the victim
Aiding the Injured................................................. 56 unless it is absolutely necessary. If the victim
is moved, get help and try to maintain the vic-
Deer –Automobile Crashes
Moving Vehicles Following a Crash.................... 56
tim in the position in which they were found.
Deer-Automobile Crashes................................... 56 Each year, deer cause thousands of crashes
Stop serious bleeding with thick cloth pads,
in Georgia. Understanding common habits of
as clean as possible, applied with pressure by
deer and knowing what to do when a deer runs
hand. Keep the victim warm. Cover the victim
out in front of the car can help to avoid serious
with blankets or coats, if necessary.
crashes. Automobile crash data from the Geor-
If You Are Involved In A Crash Georgia has a Good Samaritan Law. This
gia Department of Transportation indicate that
law holds any person harmless for civil dam-
though deer-automobile crashes are on the rise,
• Stop immediately in a safe place. ages arising as a result of any act or omission
they still account for less than six percent of
in rendering emergency care.
• Notify the nearest law enforcement agency automobile crashes reported each year.
immediately if anyone is injured or killed, or It is important to remember that deer are wild
if property damage exceeds $500.00; Moving Vehicles animals and their actions are unpredictable. The
• Provide reasonable assistance to any person
Following a Crash deer you see calmly standing on the side of the
road may bolt toward the road rather than away
injured;
When a traffic crash occurs on a multilane from it if startled by a car.
• Warn approaching motorists if you can do highway or expressway, and if there is no ap- Follow these guidelines to minimize the
so without jeopardizing your own safety or parent serious injury or death, it is the duty of chances of a crash with a deer:
that of others. Activate your hazard lights, if the drivers of the vehicles involved to move their
• In areas with known deer populations, driv-
possible, and use reflective triangles, when vehicles from the roadway to a safe location
ers should constantly scan the road and road
available; along the shoulder, emergency lane, median, or
shoulders for deer movements and sightings;
any other safe refuge. Drivers should only do
• Give your name, address, license plate num-
this if the vehicles are capable of being driven • Always slow down when a deer crosses the
ber, and driver’s license number to anyone
normally and successfully, and driving the ve- road in front of you or another car. Deer usu-
else who was involved in the crash. Get the
hicles will not present any further hazard or ally travel in groups and it is likely that there
same information from the other driver;
harm to the vehicles themselves, to the driver, is another one following closely behind;
• If you damage an unattended vehicle, you to persons nearby, or to the roadway.
• If a deer is spotted on the road or roadside at
must either locate the owner or leave your If the persons involved in the crash are inca-
night, the driver should slow down immedi
name, address, and the name of the owner pable of moving the vehicles, they are autho-
ately, blink his/her headlights and switch to
of the vehicle you were driving, in a con rized to request any other driver in the vicinity
low beam so as not to blind the deer;
spicuous place where the owner will find it. who has a valid license of the appropriate class
to move their vehicles, and the other driver is • Also, short horn blasts may help scare the
authorized to comply. deer from the road.
Drivers who take these important steps will
Should the deer or other animal run out in
not be considered at fault simply because they
front of your car, slow down as much as pos
sible to minimize the damage of a crash. Never
swerve to avoid a deer. This action may cause
you to strike another vehicle or leave the road-
way, causing more damage or serious injuries.
If you do have a crash, police should be alerted
as soon as possible. Most insurance companies
will require an accident report from the police
before paying claims for this type of crash.
Deer are usually seen along the roadside
during the early morning hours and late eve
ning. Drivers should be alert for deer during
these peak hours. Deer are most active in the fall
months of October, November and December
during the peak breeding season. Late February
and early March are also critical months for deer-
car crashes. During this period they concentrate
along road shoulders to feed on new green food
available following winter. However, deer are
often spotted at midday during summer months.
Therefore, it is important for drivers to remain
cautious when traveling on rural roads or areas
known to have a high deer population.
19-PR-0045 K
Keeping teen drivers saf
safer behind the wheel. Th
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