Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last updated March 21, 2018
Georgia regulates the possession of both illegal and prescription drugs. Georgia drug possession laws treat the crime very seriously and a conviction for possession of even a small amount of an illegal drug can subject you to serious penalties. A drug possession conviction in Georgia also results in the suspension of your driver's license.
A person convicted under Georgia drug possession laws will face the suspension of their driver's license. If this is your first conviction there is a mandatory six month driver's license suspension. Second convictions result in the loss of your license for one year, and third or subsequent possession conviction you lose your license for two years.
The following chart provides important information about Georgia drug possession laws. If you or someone you know is suffering from a substance abuse problem, get help as soon as possible.
| Statutes | Georgia Code, Title 16, Chapter 13. Controlled Substances |
| Controlled Substance Classification | Georgia drug possession laws divide controlled substances into "schedules" as follows:
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| Penalties | Georgia drug possession laws charge possession, apart from marijuana possession, as a felony. Penalties are as follows:
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| Marijuana Possession | The penalties for marijuana possession are as follows:
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Note: State laws are always subject to change through the passage of new legislation, rulings in the higher courts (including federal decisions), ballot initiatives, and other means. While we strive to provide the most current information available, please consult an attorney or conduct your own legal research to verify the state law(s) you are researching.
Georgia drug possession laws carry harsh penalties and can impact your driving privileges and employment opportunities. If you've been charged with drug possession, or another crime related to drugs, it's a good idea to contact a drug crime lawyer in Georgia who can help you present a strong defense or negotiate a plea deal to increase the chances that you don't face the worst possible outcome.
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