O.C.G.A. § 7-3-22 (2019)

(a) The department shall conduct an investigation of every applicant for licensure to determine the financial responsibility, experience, character, general fitness, and eligibility for licensure of such applicant. The department may issue the applicant a license if the department determines to its general satisfaction that: (1) The applicant is financially sound and responsible and able to engage in the business of making installment loans in an honest, fair, and efficient manner and with the confidence and trust of the community; (2) Approval of the application will promote the convenience and advantage of the community in which the applicant proposes to operate; and (3) All conditions for licensure set forth in this chapter and in the rules and regulations of the department have been satisfied. (b) No license shall be transferable or assignable. (c) Each license shall expire on December 31 of each year, and application for renewal shall be made annually on or before December 1 of each year.