What you need to bring to the DMV
Tennessee's Department of Safety and Homeland Security issues driver's licenses. To get one, you'll visit a Driver Services Center in person with specific documents — the state won't issue a license by mail or online.
You need proof of identity, proof of residency, proof of Social Security number, and proof of lawful presence in the United States. The exact documents accepted vary slightly, but common ones include a birth certificate or passport for identity, a utility bill or lease for residency, your Social Security card for your number, and a visa or passport for lawful presence if you were not born in the U.S.
If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you and sign the process. If you're renewing a license that's still valid, you may be able to renew by mail or online instead — check the Tennessee Driver Services website to see which option applies to your situation.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver Services Center in person with proof of identity, residency, Social Security number, and lawful presence.
- A birth certificate, utility bill, Social Security card, and passport or visa are the most common documents accepted.
- If you're under 18, a parent or guardian must accompany you and co-sign the process.
- The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices from the Tennessee Driver Handbook.
- You'll pay a fee at the time of your visit; the amount depends on the type of license and how long it's valid.
The written test and what it covers
After you submit your documents, you'll take a written test on a computer at the Driver Services Center. The test has 30 questions and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You get one attempt per visit, so if you don't pass, you can schedule another appointment and try again.
The test covers road signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking rules, and safe driving practices. All the material comes from the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which you can read online or pick up at any Driver Services Center. Many people study the handbook for a few days before taking the test.
If English is not your first language, you can request the test in Spanish or several other languages when you schedule your appointment. You cannot bring notes, a phone, or any other materials into the testing area.
The vision and road tests
After you pass the written test, you'll take a vision screening at the Driver Services Center. An employee will check your eyesight using a machine. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you — you must pass the vision test while wearing the same correction you'll wear while driving.
For the road test, you'll drive with a state examiner in your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the center. The examiner watches how you handle basic driving tasks: starting the car, turning, stopping, parking, and following traffic laws. The test usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes. You need to pass both the vision and road tests to receive your license.
If you don't pass the road test, you can schedule another appointment. There's no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you'll pay a fee each time.
How long the process takes and when you get your license
The entire process — documents, written test, vision screening, and road test — usually happens in one visit if you pass everything. That visit typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the Driver Services Center is.
You'll receive a temporary paper license at the center that day, valid for 30 days. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. If you don't receive it within that time, contact the Driver Services Center where you took your test.
If you fail the written or road test, you'll need to schedule a new appointment. Wait times for appointments vary by location and season — some centers have openings within days, while others may have a wait of several weeks.
Fees and payment
Tennessee charges a fee for a new driver's license, and the amount depends on how long the license is valid. A license valid for four years costs less than one valid for eight years. You pay the full fee at your visit, and the Driver Services Center accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
If you fail the road test and need to retake it, you'll pay a separate fee for each attempt. There is no refund if you don't pass on your first try.
Finding a Driver Services Center near you
Tennessee has Driver Services Centers in most counties. You can find the one nearest you on the Department of Safety and Homeland Security website by entering your county or city. The website also shows the center's hours, phone number, and whether you need an appointment.
Some centers operate by appointment only, while others accept walk-ins. Calling ahead is always a good idea — you can confirm what documents you need, ask about wait times, and learn about the center has a specific time window for road tests.
If you were born outside the United States
You'll need to prove lawful presence in addition to the other documents. A valid passport, visa, employment authorization document, or permanent resident card all work. If your visa or work permit is expiring soon, bring it anyway — the Driver Services Center will accept it as long as it's still valid on the day you explore.
If you're not sure which documents prove your lawful presence, call the Driver Services Center before your visit. Staff can tell you exactly what to bring so you don't make a wasted trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes. Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, and several other languages are available. When you schedule your appointment online or by phone, let the center know which language you need. Not all centers offer every language, so confirm availability when you book.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. You'll pay a fee each time you take the test. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the Tennessee Driver Handbook more thoroughly.
Do I need to bring my own car for the road test?
You can bring your own vehicle if it's insured and in safe working condition, or you can use a vehicle provided by the Driver Services Center. Either way, the examiner will check the brakes, lights, and wipers before the test begins. If you use your own car, make sure your insurance is current.
What if I move to a different county before my license arrives?
Your license will still be mailed to the address you provided at the Driver Services Center. If you move, you can update your address with the Department of Safety and Homeland Security online or at any Driver Services Center. Your license will be forwarded to your new address.
Can I renew my license online instead of going in person?
If your current license is still valid and you meet certain conditions, you may renew online through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. If you need a new license for the first time, you must visit a Driver Services Center in person.