Book your Memphis DMV appointment online through the Tennessee Department of Revenue website or by phone

The Tennessee Department of Revenue runs the DMV in Memphis. You can reserve an appointment through their online scheduling system at tn.gov/revenue/driver-services, or call the Memphis Driver Services office directly at (901) 680-7777. Online booking is faster — you pick your date and time slot when ready — but phone lines work if the website is down or you need help choosing which service you need.

You do not need an appointment for every transaction. Renewals by mail, duplicate licenses, and address changes can often be handled without coming in. But if you need a new license, a road test, a commercial license, or an ID card, you will need a reserved time slot. Walk-ins are accepted at some locations, but wait times run long — often two to four hours — so booking ahead saves time.

The Memphis area has two main Driver Services locations: the downtown office at 1414 Union Avenue and the Whitehaven office at 5055 Shelby Oaks Drive. Both use the same online system, so you choose the location when you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Book online at tn.gov/revenue/driver-services or call (901) 680-7777 to reserve a time slot at either the downtown Memphis or Whitehaven location.
  • You need an appointment for new licenses, road tests, commercial licenses, and ID cards, but not for mail renewals or address changes.
  • Bring your current ID, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and Social Security card or tax return for new licenses.
  • Appointments typically fill up one to two weeks in advance, so book as soon as you know you need a service.
  • If you miss your appointment, you can reschedule through the same online system without penalty.

What documents to bring to your Memphis DMV appointment

The documents you need depend on what you are doing. For a new driver's license or ID card, bring your current valid ID (passport, military ID, or out-of-state license), proof of Tennessee residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security card or a tax return showing your full name and SSN.

For a road test, bring your permit, proof of residency, and proof of insurance. If you are renewing a license in person, bring your current license and proof of residency. For a commercial license upgrade, bring your current license, proof of residency, your medical certificate (if required), and proof of insurance.

Tennessee does not accept digital copies of residency documents at the DMV counter, so print or bring originals. If your name has changed due to marriage or court order, bring the marriage certificate or court document. Bring originals and one copy of everything — the office will keep the copy.

How to reschedule or cancel your appointment

If you need to change your appointment time, log back into the Tennessee Department of Revenue scheduling system using the confirmation number from your booking email. You can reschedule to any available slot at either location. Cancellations are also made through the same system — click the appointment and select "Cancel."

If you miss your appointment without canceling, you lose that slot but can book another one when ready. There is no penalty or fee for missing or rescheduling. However, if you frequently no-show, the office may require you to call ahead to confirm before your next appointment.

Peak times and how to avoid long waits

The Memphis DMV is busiest on Tuesdays through Thursdays, especially between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Mondays and Fridays tend to have shorter waits. Early morning slots (before 10 a.m.) and late afternoon slots (after 3 p.m.) fill up faster because they are popular, but they also move through the queue more quickly.

Even with an appointment, you may wait 30 to 60 minutes during peak hours. The appointment guarantees you a time slot, not a specific wait time. If you book during off-peak hours — Monday morning or Friday afternoon — your actual wait is usually 15 to 30 minutes.

What to expect during your appointment

Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early. Check in at the front desk with your confirmation number or ID. You will be called to a service window where staff will review your documents, take your photo (for licenses and ID cards), and process your request. For road tests, you will be directed to the testing area after check-in.

If you are getting a new license or ID, you will pay the fee at the window — fees vary by service type and are listed on the Tennessee Department of Revenue website. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready and the plastic card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Road test results are given on the spot.

Bring all documents in one folder or envelope so you do not lose anything during the process. If a document is missing or incorrect, staff will tell you what you need and may offer to reschedule you for a later date at no charge.

Online appointment system features and limits

The Tennessee online scheduler shows available slots up to 30 days in advance. Slots open on a rolling basis, so if the date you want is full, check back the next day. The system works on desktop and mobile browsers, and you do not need to create an account — you book with your email address and receive a confirmation link.

If you cannot find an appointment online within your timeframe, call (901) 680-7777. Phone staff can sometimes access slots not shown online or place you on a waitlist. Call times are shortest before 9 a.m. and after 4 p.m.

The online system does not handle special requests — if you need an interpreter, extra time for a disability, or have other needs, call ahead to let staff know. They will make a note on your appointment so the right accommodations are ready when you arrive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book an appointment for someone else?

No. The person who needs the service must book their own appointment using their email address. If someone cannot book online, they can call (901) 680-7777 and a staff member will book it over the phone. Minors can have a parent or guardian book on their behalf by phone.

What if I do not have proof of residency?

You will not be able to complete your transaction without it. Acceptable documents are utility bills, lease agreements, bank statements, or insurance policies dated within 60 days. If you do not have any of these, contact the Memphis office before your appointment to ask about alternatives — they may accept a notarized letter from a landlord or other documents in specific situations.

How long does it take to get my new license in the mail?

The plastic license card arrives within 7 to 10 business days. You receive a temporary paper license at the window that is valid when ready. If your card does not arrive within two weeks, call (901) 680-7777 to check the status.

Can I book an appointment if I have an out-of-state license?

Yes. Bring your current out-of-state license as your ID, along with proof of Tennessee residency and your Social Security card. You can book online or by phone just like anyone else.

What happens if I fail my road test?

You can reschedule another test through the online system or by phone. There is no waiting period between attempts, but you must pay the test fee again. Most people reschedule within a few days to a week.