Where to explore for a driver license in Nashville
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security runs the driver license system in Nashville. You will go to a Driver Services Center in Davidson County to get your license — there is no online process or mail-in option for a new license. The main location is the Nashville Driver Services Center on Stewarts Ferry Pike, but the department also operates satellite offices in other parts of the county.
You cannot walk in without an appointment. You must schedule your visit through the Tennessee Driver Services website or by calling 615-741-3054. The wait time between booking and your appointment typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks, depending on how busy the office is at that time.
Key Takeaways
- You must schedule an appointment through the Tennessee Driver Services website or by phone at 615-741-3054 before visiting any Nashville Driver Services Center.
- Bring your Social Security card, proof of residency (utility bill or lease), and proof of citizenship or legal presence — the exact documents depend on whether you are renewing, replacing, or getting your first license.
- The main Nashville Driver Services Center is on Stewarts Ferry Pike, but satellite offices exist in other parts of Davidson County and may have shorter wait times.
- You will take a written test, vision test, and photo at your appointment, so plan for the full process to take 30 to 45 minutes once you are called.
Documents you need to bring
What you bring depends on whether you are getting your first Tennessee license, renewing an expired one, or replacing a lost or stolen license. In all cases, bring your Social Security card and one proof of residency — a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement with your current Nashville address will work.
For a first-time license, you also need proof of citizenship or legal presence. This can be a birth certificate, passport, or visa. If you are renewing or replacing, you do not need citizenship documents if you already have a valid Tennessee license number on file.
Bring your current license if you have one, even if it is expired. If your license was lost or stolen, bring a police report if you have one — it is not required, but it speeds up the process.
What happens at your appointment
When you arrive, a staff member will verify your documents and check your information in the system. You will then take a written test covering road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. You can retake it the same day if you fail.
After the written test, you will take a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them. You will then have your photo taken for the license itself. The entire appointment usually takes 30 to 45 minutes from start to finish.
Your temporary license is printed on the spot. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. The temporary version is valid for driving while you wait.
Fees and payment methods
A first-time driver license costs $27.50 and is valid for eight years. A renewal costs $27.50 and is also valid for eight years. A replacement for a lost or stolen license costs $27.50. The Driver Services Center accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards — they do not accept checks.
If you are under 21, your license will have different restrictions and a different appearance. The fee is the same.
Satellite locations and hours
The main Nashville Driver Services Center on Stewarts Ferry Pike is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The department also runs smaller offices in other parts of Davidson County. You can find the full list of locations and their hours on the Tennessee Driver Services website when you schedule your appointment.
Satellite offices often have shorter wait times than the main location, especially if you live on the south or east side of Nashville. Check availability when you book — the system shows you which offices have open slots on your preferred dates.
If you fail the written test
You can retake the written test the same day at no extra cost. You do not have to reschedule or come back another day. If you fail a second time, you must wait at least one day before taking it again, and you will need to schedule a new appointment.
The test covers material in the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which you can read free from the Driver Services website. Many people study the handbook for a few hours the night before and pass on their first try.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a driver license without scheduling an appointment?
No. The Nashville Driver Services Center requires all visitors to have an appointment scheduled in advance. Walk-ins are not accepted. You must book through the Tennessee Driver Services website or by calling 615-741-3054.
What if I do not have a Social Security card?
You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a letter from the Social Security Administration stating you are not may be able to access for a number. Bring whichever document applies to you along with your other required documents.
How long does it take to get my permanent license in the mail?
Your permanent plastic license arrives within 7 to 10 business days. Your temporary license, printed at your appointment, is valid for driving during this time. If you do not receive it after two weeks, call 615-741-3054 to check the status.
Can I renew my license online or by mail?
You cannot renew by mail, but you may be able to renew online if your current license is not expired and you meet other requirements. Check the Tennessee Driver Services website to see if online renewal is available for your situation. If not, you must visit a Driver Services Center in person.
What if I move out of Nashville after I get my license?
Your Tennessee driver license remains valid no matter where you move within the state. If you move to another state, you will need to get a license from that state. You do not need to update your address with Tennessee unless you want to — but updating it is free and can be done online or at your next visit.