Where to go for a driver's license in Memphis
In Memphis, you get a driver's license from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver License Section. The main office that serves Memphis is located at 1150 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38105. This is the place where you'll take your written test, vision test, and photo, and where you'll receive your license on the same day if you pass.
You can also visit other Driver License offices in the surrounding area if the Poplar Avenue location is too crowded or inconvenient. Shelby County has multiple locations, and you can find their addresses and hours on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Some offices have shorter wait times than others, especially if you go early in the morning or on weekday afternoons.
Before you go, check whether you need an appointment. Tennessee allows walk-ins at most locations, but some offices now use an online appointment system to manage crowds. Calling ahead to confirm current hours and whether appointments are required can save you a trip.
Key Takeaways
- The main Memphis Driver License office is at 1150 Poplar Avenue, and you can walk in without an appointment at most locations, though calling ahead is wise.
- You will need a Social Security number, proof of Tennessee residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and a birth certificate or passport before you go.
- The written test covers road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices; you can study using the official Tennessee Driver Handbook available free online.
- Your license is issued the same day you pass the vision and written tests, and you'll pay a fee that varies depending on the type of license you're seeking.
- If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or return another day; there is no waiting period between attempts.
Documents you need to bring
Tennessee requires you to bring several documents to prove your identity and residency. You must have an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a valid U.S. passport, or a passport card. You also need your Social Security number — bring your Social Security card or a document that shows it, such as a W-2 form or tax return.
For proof of Tennessee residency, bring a document dated within the last 60 days that shows your current address. A utility bill, lease agreement, bank statement, or government mail all work. If you're under 18, your parent or guardian must come with you and bring their ID and proof of residency as well.
If you're renewing a license or replacing a lost one, bring your current or expired license if you have it. This speeds up the process and helps the office verify your driving history.
The written test and what it covers
The written test has 30 questions, and you need to answer at least 24 correctly to pass. The test covers road signs and what they mean, right-of-way rules, speed limits, parking rules, and safe driving practices. You'll also see questions about what to do in bad weather, how to handle emergencies, and the rules for sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists.
The Tennessee Driver Handbook is free and available on the Department of Safety website. It contains all the information you need to pass the test. Many people study it for a few days before taking the test and find that enough. You can also take practice tests online through the state website to get a feel for the question format.
The test is given on a computer at the Driver License office. You read each question on the screen and select your answer. If you fail, you can take the test again the same day or come back another day — there's no waiting period between attempts.
Vision screening and the road test
Before you take the written test, you'll have your vision screened at the office. You need to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you'll need to see an eye doctor and bring a certificate showing you meet the standard before you can get your license.
Tennessee does not require a separate road test for a regular driver's license. Once you pass the written test and vision screening, you receive your license. However, if you're under 18, you'll get a learner's permit first and must hold it for a certain period before you can get a full license. The rules for permit holders are stricter — for example, you cannot drive alone, and there are limits on when you can drive.
License types and fees
Tennessee offers different types of driver's licenses depending on your age and needs. A regular Class D license is for drivers 18 and older. A Class M license is for motorcycle riders. There are also commercial licenses (Class A, B, or C) if you drive trucks or buses for work.
The fee for a Class D license varies based on how long you want it to be valid — you can get a 4-year, 5-year, or 8-year license, and the longer the term, the lower the annual cost. Fees change periodically, so check the Department of Safety website or call the office for the current price. You can pay by cash, check, or card at most locations.
If you're getting your first license, you'll start with a learner's permit if you're under 18. The permit fee is separate from the license fee, and you'll pay both when you eventually get your full license.
What happens if you fail the test
If you don't pass the written test on your first try, you can retake it when ready at the same office or come back another day. There's no penalty for retaking it, and you don't have to wait any amount of time. Many people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the handbook more carefully.
If you fail the vision screening, you'll need to see an optometrist or ophthalmologist and get a letter stating that you meet Tennessee's vision standard. Bring that letter back to the Driver License office, and you can complete your test.
Keep in mind that if you're under 18 and fail the written test, you'll still need to hold your learner's permit for the required waiting period before you can get your full license, even after you pass the test.
Renewing or replacing your license
If your license is expiring, you can renew it at any Driver License office. You'll need to bring your current license, proof of residency, and pay the renewal fee. You won't have to take the written test again unless your license has been expired for more than a year or the state requires it for other reasons.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at the Driver License office. Bring your proof of identity and residency, and pay the replacement fee. You'll receive a new license the same day.
You can also renew your license by mail if it's not expiring soon and you don't need to update your address or other information. The Department of Safety website has instructions for mail renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?
No, Tennessee requires a Social Security number to get a driver's license. If you don't have one, you'll need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. This process can take several weeks.
What if I'm under 18 — do I have to get a learner's permit first?
Yes, if you're under 18, you must get a learner's permit first and hold it for at least 30 days before you can get a full driver's license. During that time, you can only drive with a licensed adult 21 or older in the car, and you cannot drive between midnight and 5 a.m.
How long does it take to get a license on the day I explore?
The whole process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the office is. If you go during peak hours (lunch time or late afternoon on weekdays), you may wait longer. Going early in the morning or on a weekday afternoon typically means a shorter wait.
What if I move to a different address in Tennessee?
You should update your address at a Driver License office within a reasonable time after you move. Bring your new proof of residency and your current license. The fee for updating your address is usually small or free, depending on whether you need a new license card printed.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English?
Yes, Tennessee offers the written test in several languages. Call the Driver License office ahead of time to confirm which languages are available and whether you need to bring an interpreter or if one is provided at the office.