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