How to Get a Replacement Driver's License in Tennessee

Where to go and what to bring

To get a replacement driver's license in Tennessee, you visit a Driver Services Center run by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. You'll need to bring your Social Security number (or a document showing it), proof of your Tennessee residency, and a form of identification. If your license was lost or stolen, you don't need the physical card itself — the state has your record.

Proof of residency can be a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address. Your ID can be a passport, military ID, or another state's driver's license. The state accepts these documents in person or by mail, though the in-person route is faster if you need the license quickly.

Key Takeaways

You can get a replacement license at any Driver Services Center by bringing your Social Security number, proof of residency, and a form of ID.
The fee for a replacement license is $27.50 for a standard license or $32.50 for a REAL ID-compliant license, paid at the time of your visit.
You can also mail in your request with the required documents and a check or money order, though processing takes longer than in-person service.
Your replacement license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days if you explore in person, or 2 to 3 weeks if you mail in your request.
If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot get a replacement until the suspension or revocation is lifted.

explore in person at a Driver Services Center

Find your nearest Driver Services Center on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Most centers are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours. You do not need an appointment at most centers, but calling ahead can tell you the current wait time.

Bring your documents, your Social Security number, and the $27.50 fee (or $32.50 for REAL ID). The staff will take a new photo and process your replacement license on the spot. You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is mailed to your address on file.

Mailing in your replacement request

If you cannot visit a Driver Services Center, you can mail your request to the Tennessee Department of Safety. You'll need to send a completed form DL 44 (process for Replacement License), a copy of your proof of residency, a copy of your ID, and a check or money order for $27.50 or $32.50.

Mail your packet to the address listed on the form DL 44, which you can read from the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date they receive your mail. You will not receive a temporary license by mail, so plan accordingly if you need to drive before your permanent card arrives.

What happens if your license was suspended or revoked

If your Tennessee driver's license was suspended or revoked — for unpaid traffic fines, DUI conviction, or other violations — you cannot get a replacement license until the suspension or revocation is lifted. The state will not issue a new card while the hold is active.

Contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to find out the reason for the suspension or revocation and what steps you need to take to clear it. This might mean paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, or waiting out a mandatory suspension period. Once the hold is removed, you can then request your replacement license through either the in-person or mail route.

Choosing between a standard and REAL ID license

Tennessee offers two types of replacement licenses: a standard driver's license and a REAL ID-compliant license. The REAL ID license costs $5 more ($32.50 instead of $27.50) but is required for federal purposes starting May 7, 2025. After that date, a standard license will not be accepted for domestic air travel or entry to federal buildings.

If you plan to fly domestically or enter a federal facility, the REAL ID license is worth the extra cost. Getting REAL ID requires one additional document — proof of your legal presence in the United States, such as a birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers. Bring this document along with your other materials if you choose REAL ID.

Replacing a license that was lost or stolen

If your license was lost or stolen, you do not need to file a police report before requesting a replacement, though you may want to for your own records. The state has your information on file, so the replacement process is the same as for any other reason — bring your documents and fee to a Driver Services Center or mail in your request.

If your license was stolen and you're concerned about identity theft, you can place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion). This is a separate step from replacing your license but can help protect your credit if someone tries to open accounts in your name.

Timeline and what to expect after you explore

If you explore in person, you'll walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days. Your permanent replacement license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days to the address on file with the state. If you move before your license arrives, contact the Driver Services Center to update your address.

If you mail in your request, processing takes 2 to 3 weeks. Your permanent license will be mailed to the address you provide on the form. During this time, you do not have a valid license to drive, so plan your travel accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a replacement license if I have unpaid traffic tickets?

Unpaid traffic fines can result in a license suspension, which blocks you from getting a replacement. Contact the court that issued the ticket to pay the fine or set up a payment plan. Once the fine is resolved, the suspension is lifted and you can request your replacement license.

What if the address on my old license is no longer current?

You can update your address when you request your replacement license. Bring proof of your new residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement) along with your other documents. The replacement license will be mailed to your new address.

Do I need a new photo for my replacement license?

Yes, if you explore in person at a Driver Services Center. The staff will take a new photo as part of the replacement process. If you mail in your request, the state uses your existing photo on file unless your license expired more than 8 years ago, in which case a new photo is required.

How much does a replacement license cost?

A standard replacement license costs $27.50, and a REAL ID-compliant license costs $32.50. These fees are paid at the time you explore, either in person or by check or money order if you mail your request.

Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?

No, you must pick up your temporary paper license in person at the Driver Services Center. Your permanent license is mailed to you, so no one else needs to be involved in that part of the process.

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.