Many drivers forget to bring their licenses before getting behind the wheel in Georgia. While this might be a relatively common mistake, the consequences can be more serious than many realize. What exactly are the consequences for driving without a license in Georgia? How many points will you get on your license? Could a traffic law attorney in Georgia help you avoid these penalties? 

Georgia Allows Drivers to Show Digital IDs Instead of Physical Licenses

In July of 2025, multiple sources reported that Georgia had introduced a new law allowing digital IDs instead of physical driver’s licenses. In other words, you no longer need to carry a physical driver’s license with you when you drive in Georgia. Instead, you can have a digital ID on your phone. If an officer stops you on the road and asks for your driver’s license, you can show your digital ID instead. You should not face any consequences for showing your digital ID. 

Note that this law is still very new, and some Georgia law enforcement officers may be unaware of the change. If an officer refuses to accept your digital ID and issues you a ticket for not having a physical driver’s license, you can push back with help from a traffic law attorney in Georgia. You should be able to avoid fines and other penalties without any long-term consequences. 

Note that relying solely on a digital ID could be risky. If your phone runs out of power, you will have nothing to show an officer during a traffic stop. In this situation, you could potentially face penalties for not having a driver’s license, even if your digital ID is stored on your phone. 

Penalties for Driving Without a License in Georgia

If you simply forget your driver’s license at home, you could face a charge of “driving without license on person” in Georgia. As the phrase suggests, this violation involves not having your license available for an officer to inspect. The key thing to remember about this charge is that it involves a valid license. You could face a fine of up to $500 for forgetting your license. It is also possible to face jail time, although this consequence is rare (especially for a first offense). You may also lose your driving privileges for six months. 

Note that this violation is distinct from driving without a valid license. If you do not have the right to drive in Georgia and officers catch you behind the wheel, more severe penalties apply. 

Can a Georgia Traffic Law Attorney Help Me?

If you face consequences for driving without a license in Georgia, a traffic law attorney may be able to help. There are several potential defenses for this traffic violation, especially with the new law regarding digital IDs. You may be able to contest your ticket or pursue some kind of deal that allows you to continue driving. Learn more by contacting Lankford & Moore Law today.