Where to get your driver's license in Dickson

The Dickson Driver Services Center is run by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. It is located at 105 Highlander Drive, Dickson, TN 37055. This is where you go to take your written test, road test, and pick up your license once it is issued.

You can also renew an existing Tennessee license by mail or online if you meet certain conditions — your license must not be expired by more than two years, and you cannot have any medical or legal restrictions. The Tennessee Department of Safety website has a renewal tool that tells you whether your situation qualifies for mail or online renewal.

If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, you can do that at the Dickson center or through the mail. A replacement costs less than a new license and takes longer to arrive, so choose based on how soon you need it.

Key Takeaways

  • The Dickson Driver Services Center at 105 Highlander Drive is the only location in Dickson where you can take your written and road tests.
  • You will need to bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number.
  • Tennessee charges different fees for a regular license, a commercial license, and a motorcycle endorsement — check the Department of Safety website for current amounts.
  • Road test appointments often have a waiting list, so call ahead or check online to see how far out the next opening is.

Documents you need to bring

Tennessee requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of residency, and proof of your Social Security number or ITIN. A single document can count toward more than one category if it meets the requirements for both.

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. A photocopy is not accepted. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or Certificate of Naturalization.

For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name must appear on the document. A piece of mail from a government agency also works. If you live with someone else and are not on the lease or utility bill, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the document, plus their ID.

For proof of your Social Security number, bring your Social Security card, a W-2 form, a 1099 form, or a tax return. If you do not have a Social Security number, bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number documentation from the IRS.

Steps to take your written and road tests

First, schedule an appointment for your written test. You can do this online through the Tennessee Department of Safety website or by calling the Dickson center directly. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. You can study using the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which is free and available online.

On the day of your written test, arrive 15 minutes early with all your documents. The test has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass. If you fail, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment.

After you pass the written test, you will schedule a road test. The waiting list for road tests in Dickson varies by season — it may be a few days or several weeks. During your road test, an examiner will watch you perform basic driving tasks like parking, turning, and stopping. Bring the vehicle you will use, a valid permit or license, and proof of insurance.

Once you pass the road test, you will receive a temporary license on paper. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within one to two weeks.

Fees and payment methods

Tennessee charges a fee for each type of license and each endorsement. A regular driver's license costs one amount, a commercial driver's license costs more, and adding a motorcycle endorsement costs additional money. Fees change periodically, so check the Tennessee Department of Safety website or call the Dickson center for the current price.

The Dickson Driver Services Center accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. Some locations also accept money orders. Call ahead if you want to confirm which payment methods are available on the day you plan to visit.

If you are renewing or replacing your license

If your Tennessee license is still valid or expired less than two years ago, you may be able to renew by mail or online without visiting the Dickson center. The Tennessee Department of Safety website has a tool that checks whether you are may be able to access. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks. Online renewal is faster but is not available for all license types.

If you are replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, you can request a replacement by mail or in person. A replacement is cheaper than a new license because it keeps your same number and expiration date. In-person replacement at the Dickson center is faster — you can pick it up the same day or within a few days. Mail replacement takes longer but costs less.

If your license was suspended or revoked, you cannot renew or replace it. You must contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to find out what steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges.

Hours and contact information

The Dickson Driver Services Center is open Monday through Friday. Hours vary by day, so check the Tennessee Department of Safety website or call 615-741-3054 to confirm the hours before you visit. The center is closed on state holidays.

You can also reach the Tennessee Department of Safety main office at 615-251-5000. They can answer questions about what documents you need, how much your license will cost, and how long the road test waiting list is. Having this information before you visit saves time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take my road test in a vehicle that is not registered to me?

Yes. The vehicle does not have to be registered in your name, but it must have valid registration, current insurance, and working safety equipment like lights, wipers, and brakes. Bring proof of insurance with you. The examiner will check these things before the test begins.

What happens if I fail my road test?

You can retake it after waiting a set number of days — check with the Dickson center for the exact waiting period. There is a fee each time you take the test. You keep your permit and can practice driving with a licensed adult before your next attempt.

Do I need to take the written test again if I already have a license from another state?

Yes. Tennessee requires all new residents to pass the written test and road test, even if you have a valid license from another state. Your out-of-state license counts as proof of identity, which simplifies your document requirements.

How long does it take to get my permanent license card after I pass the road test?

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready. Your permanent card arrives by mail within one to two weeks. If you need your license sooner, ask the Dickson center whether they can issue a replacement card in person.

Can I renew my license online if I have a commercial driver's license?

Online renewal is not available for commercial licenses. You must renew in person at the Dickson Driver Services Center or by mail. Call the center to find out which option is faster for your situation.