Driver License Locations in Memphis
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security runs the driver license offices in Memphis. There are two locations where you can go in person: the downtown Memphis office on Poplar Avenue and the East Memphis office on Mendenhall Road. Both issue new licenses, handle renewals, and process duplicate licenses. Hours and wait times vary by location and time of day, so calling ahead or checking the state website before you go saves time.
You do not have to go to a specific location based on where you live in Memphis — you can visit whichever office works for your schedule. However, some services move faster at one location than the other depending on staffing and demand. The downtown office tends to be busier during lunch hours and early afternoon, while the East Memphis location often has shorter waits in the morning.
Key Takeaways
- Memphis has two driver license offices: one downtown on Poplar Avenue and one in East Memphis on Mendenhall Road, both run by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security.
- Both locations handle new licenses, renewals, and duplicates, and you can visit either one regardless of where you live in the city.
- Wait times vary by time of day and location, so calling ahead to ask about current wait times helps you plan your visit.
- You will need to bring specific documents — a Social Security card, proof of residency, and a birth certificate or passport — so verify the full list before you go.
Downtown Memphis Driver License Office
The downtown office is located at 1414 Poplar Avenue in Memphis. This is the original location and typically handles higher volume, especially during midday hours. Parking is available on the street and in nearby lots, though street parking can be tight during business hours.
The office is open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. You can call the main Tennessee driver license customer service line to ask about current wait times at this location, or check the state's online system to see estimated wait times before you leave home. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon often means shorter waits than midday.
East Memphis Driver License Office
The East Memphis location is at 5055 Mendenhall Road. This office serves the eastern part of the city and typically has lower volume than the downtown location. Parking is easier to find here, and the office is less crowded during most hours of the day.
Hours are the same as the downtown office — Monday through Friday during business hours. If you live on the east side of Memphis or prefer a quieter environment, this location often has shorter waits. You can still call ahead to confirm current wait times and hours before making the trip.
Documents You Need to Bring
Tennessee requires specific documents no matter which Memphis location you visit. You will need your Social Security card, a document proving your current address (such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement), and proof of your legal name and date of birth (a birth certificate, passport, or court order). If you are renewing an expired license, you may be able to bring your old license instead of some of these documents, but the rules vary depending on how long it has been expired.
If you are a new resident of Tennessee or explore for your first license, bring your out-of-state license if you have one. The office staff can tell you on the spot if you are missing anything, but bringing the full list means you will not have to make a second trip. Bring originals, not copies — the office will not accept photocopies of your Social Security card or birth certificate.
Fees and Payment Methods
Driver license fees in Tennessee depend on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard license costs less than a commercial license, and renewal fees differ from new license fees. The exact amount changes periodically, so check the Tennessee Department of Safety website or call ahead to confirm the current fee before you go.
Both Memphis locations accept cash and card payments. Some offices accept checks, but calling ahead to confirm payment methods at your chosen location prevents delays. If you are renewing online (which Tennessee allows for some renewals), you can pay by card through the state website and skip the office visit entirely.
Online Renewal and Alternatives to In-Person Visits
Tennessee allows you to renew your driver license online if your license is not expired and you meet other requirements. You can do this through the state's online portal without visiting either Memphis location. Online renewal is faster and costs less than in-person renewal, so check whether you are may be able to access before making a trip to an office.
If you cannot visit in person and your license is expired or you need a new license rather than a renewal, you will have to go to one of the two Memphis offices. There is no mail-in option for new licenses or expired renewals in Tennessee. However, if you are renewing before your license expires, the online option is usually your fastest path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an appointment to get a driver license in Memphis?
Tennessee driver license offices operate on a first-come, first-served basis, and appointments are not required. You can walk in during business hours. However, some locations allow you to reserve a time slot online to reduce wait time. Check the state website to see if your preferred Memphis location offers this option.
How long does it take to get a new driver license at the Memphis office?
Processing time varies, but most new licenses are issued the same day you explore. You will receive a temporary paper license to use while the plastic card is mailed to your address, which usually arrives within one to two weeks. Renewals are often faster than new licenses.
What if I lost my Social Security card and cannot find it?
You can bring other documents that show your Social Security number, such as a tax return or W-2 form. If you have none of these, you will need to contact the Social Security Administration to request a replacement card before you can get a driver license. The driver license office cannot issue a license without proof of your Social Security number.
Can I renew my license if it expired more than a year ago?
Yes, but you will have to go in person to one of the Memphis offices. Online renewal is only for licenses that are not yet expired. Bring all the same documents you would for a new license, including proof of residency and your birth certificate or passport.
Which Memphis location has shorter wait times?
The East Memphis office on Mendenhall Road typically has shorter waits than the downtown location, especially during midday hours. However, this can change depending on staffing and the day of the week. Call ahead or check the state's online wait time tool to see current conditions before you go.