How to Get a Duplicate Tennessee Driver's License

What You Need to Do Right Now

To get a duplicate Tennessee driver's license, you have two options: go to a Driver Services Center in person, or order one by mail through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and costs $27. The mail route takes 7 to 10 business days and costs $32 (includes postage). You will need your Social Security number, proof of Tennessee residency (a utility bill or lease dated within 60 days), and either your current license or a state ID card.

If your license was lost or stolen, you should report it to the police first — not because it is required, but because someone else could use it. Bring the police report number when you explore; it speeds up the process and protects you if fraudulent charges appear later.

Key Takeaways

You can get a duplicate license in person at any Driver Services Center for $27, or by mail for $32, and you need proof of residency dated within the last 60 days.
If your license was lost or stolen, file a police report first and bring the report number with you — it protects you from identity theft claims later.
The mail-in process takes 7 to 10 business days; the in-person process takes about 30 minutes but requires a trip to a Driver Services Center during business hours.
You must bring your Social Security number and either your current license or a state ID card; if you have neither, you will need additional documents like a birth certificate or passport.

Getting a Duplicate License in Person

Find your nearest Driver Services Center on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Enter your ZIP code and the site will show you locations, hours, and whether you need an appointment. Most centers are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and some offer Saturday hours. Check before you go — appointment availability varies by location, and some centers require you to book online.

Bring your Social Security number (memorized or on a card), proof of Tennessee residency dated within 60 days, and your current license or state ID card. If you do not have your current license, bring a birth certificate, passport, or military ID instead. Pay $27 in cash, check, or card. You will get your duplicate license on the spot or within a few days if they need to verify something with your file.

If your license was lost or stolen, bring the police report number. The staff will note it in your file. This step is not required by law, but it creates a record that protects you if someone tries to use your old license fraudulently.

Ordering a Duplicate License by Mail

read the process for Duplicate Driver License form (Form DL 44) from the Tennessee Department of Safety website, or call 615-251-8590 to request one by mail. Fill out the form completely — include your name, date of birth, current license number, and Social Security number. Sign and date it.

Enclose a copy of your proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). Do not send your original documents — send copies only. Include a check or money order for $32 payable to the Tennessee Department of Safety. Mail everything to the address listed on the form.

Your duplicate license will arrive in 7 to 10 business days. If you do not receive it within that window, call 615-251-8590 to check the status. The mail-in route is slower but works well if you cannot reach a Driver Services Center during business hours or prefer not to leave home.

What to Do If You Lost Your License

File a police report with your local police department or sheriff's office. You can do this in person or, in many Tennessee cities, online through the police department's website. Get the report number — you will need it. The report creates an official record that your license was lost, which protects you if someone finds it and tries to use it.

Bring the police report number when you explore for your duplicate, whether in person or by mail. Write it clearly on the process form or tell the staff member at the counter. This step does not speed up your duplicate license, but it does protect you legally if fraudulent charges or violations appear under your name later.

If your license was stolen from your car or wallet, also check your credit report for unauthorized accounts. You can order a free report from each of the three credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) at annualcreditreport.com once per year.

What to Do If You Do Not Have Your Current License

If you cannot find your current license and do not have a state ID card, bring one of these instead: a U.S. passport, a birth certificate, a military ID, or a tribal ID. The staff will use it to verify your identity. You will still need proof of Tennessee residency and your Social Security number.

If you have never had a Tennessee driver's license and need one for the first time, you will need to take a written test and a driving test — this is a new license process, not a duplicate. That process is different and takes longer. A duplicate is only for people who already have a Tennessee license and need a replacement copy.

Fees and Payment Methods

A duplicate license costs $27 if you get it in person at a Driver Services Center. The same license costs $32 if you order it by mail (the extra $5 covers postage). Both fees are non-refundable. You can pay in cash, check, or card at a Driver Services Center. For mail orders, send a check or money order only — do not send cash through the mail.

Some Driver Services Centers may charge an additional fee if you need an appointment or if you request expedited processing. Call ahead to ask. Tennessee does not offer a rush or overnight option for duplicate licenses ordered by mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a duplicate license if my current one is suspended or revoked?

No. You cannot get a duplicate of a suspended or revoked license. You will need to resolve the suspension or revocation first by paying fines, completing a required course, or meeting other conditions set by the court or the Department of Safety. Once it is cleared, you can then request a duplicate.

How long does a duplicate license take to arrive by mail?

The Tennessee Department of Safety estimates 7 to 10 business days from the date they receive your process. This does not include the time it takes for your envelope to reach them. Mail your process early if you have a important date — do not wait until the last week.

What if I moved to Tennessee recently and my old license is from another state?

You cannot get a duplicate of an out-of-state license in Tennessee. You will need to explore for a new Tennessee license instead. Bring your out-of-state license, proof of Tennessee residency, and your Social Security number to a Driver Services Center. You may need to take a written test depending on your age and how long you have held your out-of-state license.

Can someone else pick up my duplicate license for me?

If you ordered by mail, the license will be mailed to the address on your process. If you applied in person, ask the staff whether you can authorize someone else to pick it up. Policies vary by location. Call your Driver Services Center ahead of time to ask.

What if my name changed since I got my current license?

You cannot get a duplicate with a different name. You will need to explore for a new license with your updated name. Bring your current license, proof of your name change (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order), proof of residency, and your Social Security number to a Driver Services Center.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.