Where to get your Tennessee driver license

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver License Section, issues driver licenses in Tennessee. You cannot get one online or by mail — you must visit a Driver License office in person. Tennessee has Driver License offices in every county, and some larger cities have multiple locations.

To find the office nearest you, go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and search for "Driver License offices" or your county name. The website lists each office's address, phone number, and hours. Many offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended evening or Saturday hours. Call ahead or check online before you go, because hours vary by location and some offices close for lunch.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver License office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to get a Tennessee driver license.
  • A standard driver license costs a specific fee that varies depending on how long you want it to be valid — typically five or eight years — and you pay at the office when you explore.
  • Tennessee requires you to pass a written test about traffic laws and a driving test before you receive your license, unless you are renewing an existing license.
  • You can renew your license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions, such as having a valid license that has not been expired for more than a year.

What documents you need to bring

Bring three types of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. For proof of identity, bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid passport, a military ID, or a certificate of naturalization if you were not born in the United States. A photocopy is not acceptable — the document must be original or certified.

For proof of residency, bring a document that shows your current Tennessee address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. A driver license from another state does not count as proof of residency. If you do not have a document in your name, you can bring a document in someone else's name at the same address, such as a spouse's utility bill, plus a document that proves your relationship to that person.

You will also need to provide your Social Security number. Bring your Social Security card if you have it, or be prepared to state the number at the office. If you do not know your number, contact the Social Security Administration before you visit the Driver License office.

The written test and driving test

If you are getting a driver license for the first time or if your license has been expired for more than a year, you must pass a written test and a driving test. The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You can study for it using the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which is free on the Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. The handbook is also available in print at any Driver License office.

The driving test takes place at the Driver License office or at a location the office directs you to. You drive a test route with an examiner in your own vehicle or a vehicle provided by the office. The examiner watches how you handle the car, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition.

If you are renewing a license that is still valid or expired for less than a year, you do not have to take either test.

How much it costs and how long it takes

The cost of a Tennessee driver license depends on how long you want it to be valid. A five-year license and an eight-year license have different fees. The office will tell you the exact cost when you arrive, or you can call ahead to ask. You pay the fee at the office when you explore, and the office accepts cash, check, and card payments.

After you pass the tests and pay the fee, you receive a temporary paper license that day. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within two to three weeks. The temporary license is valid while you wait for the permanent one.

Renewing your license by mail or online

If your Tennessee driver license is still valid or expired for less than one year, you may be able to renew it without visiting an office. You can renew online through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website if you have a valid email address and a credit or debit card. The online process takes about 10 minutes.

If you prefer to renew by mail, read the renewal form from the website or pick one up at a Driver License office. Mail the completed form, a copy of your current license, and the renewal fee to the address on the form. Mail renewal takes longer than online renewal — allow three to four weeks for processing plus mail time.

You cannot renew online or by mail if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year. You also cannot renew if you need to update your address, name, or other information — in those cases, you must visit an office in person.

Changing your name or address

If you change your name or address, you must visit a Driver License office to update your license. Bring the same documents you would bring to get a new license: proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. If you changed your name, also bring a document that proves the change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

The office will issue you a new license with the updated information. You pay a fee for the updated license, which is usually the same as a renewal fee. You receive a temporary paper license that day and your permanent license by mail within two to three weeks.

What to do if you lose your license

If your driver license is lost or stolen, visit a Driver License office as soon as you can. Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number — the same documents you would bring to get a new license. Tell the office that you are replacing a lost or stolen license.

The office will issue you a replacement license with a new number. You pay a replacement fee, which is usually less than the cost of a new license. You receive a temporary paper license that day and your permanent license by mail within two to three weeks. If your license was stolen, you may also want to report the theft to local police, though this is not required to get a replacement.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Tennessee law requires a Social Security number to get a driver license. If you are not a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security number, contact the Driver License office to learn about other options, such as an identification card that does not permit driving.

What if I fail the written test or driving test?

You can retake the test. Most offices let you retake the test the same day or within a few days. You pay a fee each time you take a test. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, but you must pass both tests before you receive your license.

How do I know if my license is suspended or revoked?

Call the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security at the phone number on their website, or visit a Driver License office and ask. You can also check online through the department's website if you create an account. A suspended license can usually be reinstated after you meet certain conditions, such as paying a fine or completing a safety course.

Can I get a Real ID compliant license in Tennessee?

Yes. A Real ID compliant license meets federal requirements for air travel and entry to federal buildings. You bring the same documents as a regular license, plus proof that you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The office will tell you if your documents meet Real ID requirements. A Real ID license costs the same as a regular license.

What if I move out of Tennessee?

You must get a driver license from your new state within a certain time frame — usually 30 to 60 days after you move. You cannot use a Tennessee license in another state once you become a resident there. Contact the driver license office in your new state to learn what documents you need.