Veteran's Day Closing
Offices Closed Nov 9th, 2024, in observance of the holiday.
2017 Legislative Updates
2017 DDS Legislative Update
HB 136
A visually or physically impaired parent or legal guardian no longer must have previously held a valid driver's license for his or her minor child to operate a motor vehicle (CP)
Issuance of a noncommercial Class C license for the operation of three-wheeled motor vehicles equipped with a steering wheel, and issuance of a noncommercial Class M driver's license for the operation of three-wheeled motorcycles equipped with handlebars
Changes in fees for issuance of certain drivers' licenses and permits
To allow for department consideration of any violation of law in determining whether disqualification of a commercial driver's license, a commercial driver instructor permit, or commercial driving privileges is appropriate;
to provide authority to the commissioner to contract for the collection of delinquent fees (including the super speeder fee)
Effective July 1, 2017
HB 328
Clarifies the meaning of certain flashing signals
Flashing circular red (stop signal)
Flashing circular yellow (caution signal)
Provide rules of the road when approaching or entering an intersection with a signal in unactivated dark mode
Effective July 1, 2017
HB 472
Provides an exception to O.C.G.A. §40-6-49, Following Too Closely, for the operator of any non-leading vehicle traveling in a coordinated platoon
Provides a definition of “coordinated platoon”
Effective July 1, 2017
SB 128
The DDS is authorized to provide driver info to the Dept of Natural Resources (DNR) for use in the detection and prevention of fraud in applications for licenses, permits, and registrations by it
Effective July 1, 2017
SB 174
- Changes in procedural requirements for accountability courts
SB 176
Revises when a driver’s license may be displayed for violation of traffic offenses
Changes the court procedures for issuing a bench warrant and submitting FTA records to the DDS
Underage alcohol and controlled substance convictions no longer are considered in determining if an Habitual Violator Probationary License (HVPL) is available
A 3rd in 5 DUI Drugs conviction would continue to cause an Habitual Violator (HV) revocation but would no longer also cause a 5 year controlled substance suspension period
Effective July 1, 2017
SB 219
Authorizes autonomous vehicles in Georgia under certain conditions
Establishes insurance and vehicle registration requirements for such vehicles
Establishes requirements for operators of autonomous vehicles involved in accidents
Effective July 1, 2017
HB 205 (2016 Legislative session – effective July 1, 2017)
Creates an ignition interlock option for some drivers issued a DS-1205 when arrested for DUI
Current administrative license suspension process would remain in place
Drivers opting for the ignition interlock would be required to waive their right to an administrative hearing
Outlines provisions for IID limited permit
Allows 30 calendar days to file an appeal with OSAH
Temporary driving permit on DS-1205 good for 45 days