Third Party Testing Program FAQs

Third-Party Testing FAQs

  • 1. What is the Driver Training Third Party Testing Program?

    The Third-Party Testing Program authorizes certified driver training schools and instructors. Individuals at these schools with this authorization can administer the road skills tests. These individuals must complete a 30 and 6 driver education course at the driver training school.

  • 2. What is the difference between a Third Party Tester and a Third Party Examiner?
    • Third-Party Tester is an approved, certified driver training school. Testers can offer road skills training at their facilities.
    • Third-Party Examiner is an approved, certified driver training instructor. Examiners can offer road skills tests to students.
  • 3. What are the qualifications to become a Third Party Tester and Third Party Examiner?

    Driver training schools must have certification for at least two (2) years with an acceptable compliance record to qualify. They must also offer, on a full-time basis, both the 30-hour classroom and 6 hours behind the wheel components. If the school meets these requirements, it may apply to become a third-party tester. The  Download this pdf file. Third Party Tester Application  can be downloaded from our website. Please include all the required documents on the application checklist when you submit it to DDS. All owners/corporate officers must submit electronic fingerprints through the Georgia Applicant Processing System for the application.

    Instructors with third party tester employment and a minimum of two (2) years DDS certification may apply to become examiners. Applicants must pass a training course and a written examination. Please download the  Download this pdf file. Third Party Examiner Application  from our website. Please include all the required documents on the application checklist when you submit it to DDS. All applicants must submit electronic fingerprints through the Georgia Applicant Processing System for the application.

  • 4. Does a Third Party Tester issue a driver's license?

    No. Individuals who pass a third-party examiner road skills test receive a certificate. The certificate must be presented in-person to the DDS with a Class D or Class C driver's license application.

  • 5. Can anyone take the road skills test at a Third Party Tester?

    No. Only individuals who have completed a 30 and 6 hour driver education course at the third-party tester's facility are eligible for testing.

  • 6. How do I become a CDL Third Party Tester?

    The CDL Third Party Testing Program is administered by the CDL Compliance Unit. Please visit the CDL Regulated Program page for information and applications.

  • 7. I am currently certified in the Third Party Testing Program. How do I recertify?

    Third-Party Testing Program certifications are valid for a four-year period. You may download the  Download this pdf file. TPT Tester Recertification Application  from our website. Please submit the application at least 30 to 60 days before the expiration date. Please include all required documents listed on the application checklist. You may download the  Download this pdf file. TPT Examiner Recertification Application  from our website. Please submit the application at least 30 to 60 days before the expiration date. Please include all required documents listed on the application checklist. Fingerprinting is required for recertification.

  • 8. I was fingerprinted when I initially became certified for the Third Party Testing Program. Why do I need to be re-fingerprinted again for recertification?

    Fingerprints used for non-criminal justice purposes are retained by the Georgia and Federal Bureaus of Investigation for a matter of days. They are then purged, hence the need to be re-fingerprinted. In addition, the decision to recertify an individual or entity must be based on current criminal history results.

  • 9. Will I receive a reminder about the expiration of my certification?

    All Renewal Reminder Notices to programs and instructors are only sent via email. As a result, it is imperative that DDS is notified immediately of any changes in email addresses. Please be mindful that DDS sends renewal reminder notices as a courtesy. Programs and instructors should be cognizant of their expiration dates. Please begin the renewal process within 30 to 6 before that date.