What you need to bring to the DMV

Tennessee issues driver's licenses through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of Driver Services. You cannot get one by mail or online — you must visit a Driver Services office in person and pass a written test and vision screening.

Before you go, gather these documents. You will need proof of identity (a passport, birth certificate, or consulate ID card), proof of Tennessee residency (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement with your current address), and your Social Security number. If you were born outside the U.S., bring your immigration documents — a green card, visa, or work permit. Bring the originals, not copies.

If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you and sign the process. If you are renewing and your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of identity, proof of Tennessee residency, and your Social Security number.
  • The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices; you can study using the free Tennessee Driver Handbook online.
  • A standard driver's license costs $27.50 and is valid for five years; the fee is higher if you need a REAL ID-compliant license.
  • Processing takes a few minutes at the office, and you receive your temporary license when ready; the permanent card arrives by mail within two weeks.
  • If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day at most offices, but you must wait at least one day between attempts at some locations.

The written test and what it covers

The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Tennessee traffic laws and safe driving. You must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. The test covers road signs and their meanings, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking laws, and what to do in emergencies.

Tennessee provides the free Driver Handbook on the Department of Safety website. Read it before you go — it is the source material for every question on the test. Many Driver Services offices also have printed copies you can pick up or study while you wait. Some people study for a few hours; others spend several days. There is no time limit on how long you can prepare.

You take the test on a computer at the Driver Services office. If you do not pass, you can usually retake it the same day, though a few offices require you to wait until the next day. There is no extra fee to retake the test.

Vision screening and the road test

Every applicant takes a vision screening at the office. You read letters on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them — you can wear them during the screening and while driving. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot get a license that day, but you can return after you see an eye doctor.

Tennessee does not require a separate road test for a standard driver's license. Once you pass the written test and vision screening, you are done. You receive a temporary paper license on the spot and can drive when ready. The permanent plastic card is mailed to your address within two weeks.

If you are under 18, the rules are different. Teen drivers must complete a driver education course and hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days before taking a road test. The road test is administered by a third-party examiner, not the DMV.

Fees and license validity

A standard five-year driver's license costs $27.50. If you want a REAL ID-compliant license (required for federal buildings and domestic flights starting in 2025), the cost is higher — currently $32.50 — and you must bring additional proof of residency or identity. An eight-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $16.50.

Your license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can renew it up to one year before it expires. Tennessee allows some renewals by mail if you meet certain conditions, but a first-time license must be obtained in person.

Finding your nearest Driver Services office

Tennessee has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find the one nearest you on the Department of Safety website — search by county or city. Hours vary by location; some are open Monday through Friday, while others have Saturday hours. A few offices are open on Sunday.

Wait times vary widely. Urban offices during lunch hours or after work can have lines of 30 minutes to two hours. Rural offices and early morning visits are often faster. The website does not show real-time wait times, so calling ahead is the best way to know what to expect.

You do not need an appointment at most offices — you walk in and take a number. A few offices do take appointments; the website will tell you which ones.

If you have a suspended or revoked license

If your Tennessee license was suspended or revoked, you cannot straightforward get a new one. You must first resolve the reason for the suspension — usually paying traffic fines, completing a defensive driving course, or serving a waiting period. Contact the Driver Services office or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you need to do.

Once the suspension is lifted, you can explore for a new license like any other applicant. If you are explore after a revocation, the process may take longer and you may face additional requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Tennessee driver's license if I do not have a Social Security number?

No. Tennessee requires your Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you do not have one, you must explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. If you are not may be able to access for a Social Security number, you may be able to get a state ID card instead, which requires an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number).

What if I fail the written test?

You can retake it the same day at most offices, though some require a one-day wait between attempts. There is no extra fee. You can take the test as many times as you need. Most people pass on the second or third try if they study the handbook between attempts.

Do I need to bring my old license when I renew?

No, but it helps. If you have your old license, bring it so the office can see your driving history. If you have lost it, you can still renew — just tell the staff member. You will need to show the same documents as a first-time applicant.

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

Tennessee typically mails the permanent plastic license within two weeks of your visit. You can drive on the temporary paper license when ready. If more than three weeks have passed and you have not received it, contact the Driver Services office where you applied.

Can I change my address on my license without getting a new one?

No. If your address changes, you must renew your license. You can do this in person at a Driver Services office or, if you meet certain conditions, by mail. Bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.