Driver's license kiosks in Memphis are self-service machines run by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security

These kiosks let you handle certain driver's license tasks without waiting in line at a full office. They are located inside some Shelby County libraries and other public buildings across Memphis. The machines can renew your license, replace a lost or damaged license, and update your address — but they cannot issue a license for the first time or handle medical suspensions.

The kiosks accept payment by credit or debit card. You will need your current Tennessee driver's license or ID card to use one. The process takes about 10 to 15 minutes, and your new license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

Key Takeaways

  • Kiosks in Memphis can renew your license, replace a lost or damaged one, and update your address without an appointment.
  • You must have a valid Tennessee driver's license or ID card in your possession to use a kiosk.
  • Payment is by credit or debit card only — cash is not accepted.
  • Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days after you complete the kiosk transaction.

Kiosk locations in Shelby County

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security places kiosks in public buildings where residents can access them during regular hours. In Memphis, kiosks are typically found in Shelby County library branches. The exact locations and hours change, so you should call ahead or check the department's website before you go.

The main Driver Services office for Shelby County is located at 1414 Poplar Avenue in Memphis. This office has full services and does not require an appointment, though wait times can be long during peak hours. If you cannot find a kiosk location that works for you, you can always visit this office in person.

What you can and cannot do at a kiosk

Kiosks handle routine transactions only. You can renew a license that is not yet expired or within a certain grace period after expiration, replace a license you have lost or that is damaged, and update your address. Some kiosks also let you add or remove the organ donor designation on your license.

You cannot use a kiosk if you are getting a license for the first time, if your license has been suspended or revoked, if you need to change your name, or if you have medical conditions that require a hearing or vision test. For any of these situations, you must visit a full Driver Services office in person.

Documents and information you will need

Bring your current Tennessee driver's license or ID card — this is the main document the kiosk reads. You will also need a valid payment method: a credit card or debit card. The kiosk does not accept cash, checks, or other forms of payment.

If you are updating your address, have your new address ready to type in. If you are replacing a lost license, the kiosk will ask you to confirm details like your date of birth and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity. Write down this information before you approach the machine so you can enter it quickly and accurately.

How the kiosk process works, step by step

When you arrive at the kiosk, insert your current driver's license or ID card into the slot. The machine will read your information and display it on the screen. Review the details to make sure everything is correct.

Select the transaction you want to complete — renewal, replacement, or address change. Follow the on-screen prompts to confirm your information or make updates. When you reach the payment screen, insert your credit or debit card and enter your PIN or sign as prompted. The kiosk will print a receipt showing your transaction number and the expected delivery date for your new license.

Keep this receipt. Your new license will arrive by mail at the address on file. If you updated your address at the kiosk, your license will go to the new address. Do not throw away the receipt until your new license arrives.

What happens after you use the kiosk

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security processes your transaction and prints your new license at a central facility. This usually takes 3 to 5 business days. Your license is then mailed to you, which adds another 3 to 5 business days depending on your location within Memphis and Shelby County.

If you do not receive your license within 10 business days, contact the Driver Services office at 1414 Poplar Avenue or call the statewide customer service line. Have your receipt number ready. Do not use an expired or damaged license to drive while you wait for your new one — Tennessee law requires you to carry a valid license.

When to visit an office instead of using a kiosk

If your license has been suspended, revoked, or cancelled, you cannot use a kiosk. You must visit the Driver Services office in person and may need to provide additional documents or pay reinstatement fees. The same applies if you are getting your first Tennessee license, changing your name, or if you have medical conditions that require testing.

If you have questions about whether your situation qualifies for kiosk use, call the Driver Services office before you go. This saves you a trip if you end up needing to see someone in person anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my license at a kiosk if it has already expired?

Tennessee allows renewal at a kiosk for a limited time after expiration — usually within a grace period. If your license expired more than a few months ago, you may not be able to use the kiosk. Call the Driver Services office to confirm whether your license falls within the renewal window.

What if the kiosk rejects my card or the transaction fails?

Try a different credit or debit card if you have one. If the kiosk continues to reject payment, it may be experiencing a technical issue. Visit the Driver Services office at 1414 Poplar Avenue instead, where staff can process your transaction and accept payment by cash, check, or card.

Can I use a kiosk to get a Real ID compliant license?

Kiosks can renew a Real ID license if your current license is already Real ID compliant. If you are upgrading to Real ID for the first time, you must visit the full Driver Services office in person and bring documents that prove your identity, Social Security number, and Tennessee residency.

How do I know if there is a kiosk near me?

Check the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website for current kiosk locations in Shelby County, or call the Driver Services office at 1414 Poplar Avenue. Locations and hours can change, so calling ahead is the most reliable way to confirm a kiosk is available when you plan to go.

What if I lose my receipt from the kiosk?

Keep your receipt until your new license arrives. If you lose it, you can contact the Driver Services office with your driver's license number and date of birth, and they can look up your transaction. However, having the receipt makes the process faster.