Memphis driver's license locations and what to bring
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security runs the driver's license office in Memphis. There is one main location in the city where you can renew, replace, or obtain a driver's license. You will need to bring specific documents depending on what you are doing — a renewal looks different from a first-time license, and both require proof of identity and residency.
The Memphis Driver Services office is located at 1414 Union Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104. This is the primary location for all driver's license transactions in Shelby County. Hours vary by day, so check the current schedule before you go — the office is typically open weekdays and some Saturday mornings, but hours change seasonally and occasionally close for state holidays.
You can find the exact current hours and any temporary closures on the Tennessee Department of Safety website or by calling the office directly at (901) 576-2233. Calling ahead also lets you ask whether you need an appointment or can walk in, since policies shift based on demand.
Key Takeaways
- The main Memphis driver's license office is at 1414 Union Avenue, and you should call (901) 576-2233 to confirm hours before visiting.
- You must bring proof of identity (such as a passport or birth certificate) and proof of residency (such as a utility bill or lease) for any transaction.
- Renewals, replacements, and new licenses each require different documents, so know which service you need before you arrive.
- The office may require an appointment during busy periods, so calling ahead prevents a wasted trip.
What documents you need for a renewal
A driver's license renewal requires your current license, proof of residency, and proof of your legal name if it has changed since your last license. Proof of residency means a document dated within the last 60 days showing your name and current Memphis address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement all work.
If your name has changed due to marriage, divorce, or court order, bring the document that proves the change: a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. You do not need to retake the written test or vision test for a standard renewal unless your license has been expired for more than a year or the state requires it for your age group.
Bring your Social Security number or have it memorized. You will also need to pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on how many years you are renewing for — typically $28 to $68 for a standard license. The office accepts cash, check, and card.
What documents you need for a replacement or new license
A replacement license (if yours was lost, stolen, or damaged) requires your proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Proof of identity means a document issued by a government agency that shows your name and date of birth — a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or state ID all count.
A new license for a first-time driver requires the same documents plus passing the written knowledge test and vision test at the office. You will also need to provide your Social Security number and pay the license fee. If you are under 18, you may need a parent or guardian to sign consent forms.
Bring the originals of all documents, not copies. The office staff will verify them and may make copies for the file, but you keep your originals.
How long the process takes and what happens next
A renewal or replacement at the office typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how busy the location is. You will complete an process form, have your photo taken, and pay the fee. Your new license is usually printed on-site or mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days if it cannot be printed when ready.
A new license for a first-time driver takes longer because you must pass the written test and vision test first. Budget 1.5 to 2 hours for the full process. Once you pass both tests, your license is printed or mailed the same way as a renewal.
If your license is mailed, you will receive a temporary paper license at the office that is valid until the permanent card arrives. Keep this temporary license with you while you drive.
Preparing for your visit to avoid delays
Bring all required documents in their original form, not photocopies. Check the Tennessee Department of Safety website before you go to see the current list of accepted documents — what counts as proof of residency or identity can shift, and you want to avoid a wasted trip.
Arrive early in the day if possible. The Memphis office gets busier in the afternoon and on Fridays. If you are renewing by mail instead of in person, you can skip the office visit entirely — the state offers mail renewal for some drivers, though not all. Call the office to ask whether you are may be able to access for mail renewal before you decide to go in person.
Write down your Social Security number or bring a document that shows it. You will need it to complete the process, and having it ready speeds up the process.
What to do if you cannot visit in person
Tennessee allows some drivers to renew by mail. You must have a valid, unexpired license, and you cannot have any medical or legal restrictions that require an in-person visit. To renew by mail, contact the Memphis office or visit the Tennessee Department of Safety website to request a mail renewal form.
Mail renewal takes longer than an in-person visit — typically 2 to 3 weeks from the time you mail the form until your new license arrives. You will still need to pay the renewal fee, which you can do by check or money order included with your process.
If you need a replacement license urgently and cannot wait for mail renewal, an in-person visit is your only option. There is no expedited service available through the Memphis office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online?
Tennessee does not offer online driver's license renewal. You must renew in person at the Memphis office or by mail. Mail renewal is slower but does not require a trip to the office if you are may be able to access.
What if I do not have proof of residency?
You must have proof of residency dated within the last 60 days showing your name and Memphis address. If you do not have a utility bill or lease, ask the office what other documents they accept — some accept bank statements, insurance bills, or government mail. Call ahead to confirm what will work for your situation.
Do I need an appointment?
The Memphis office accepts walk-ins, but appointments may be required during busy periods. Call (901) 576-2233 to ask whether you need an appointment before you visit. This also lets you know the current wait time.
How much does a driver's license cost?
A renewal costs between $28 and $68 depending on how many years you renew for. A replacement costs around $28. A new license for a first-time driver costs around $28 plus any test fees. Exact prices vary, so call the office to confirm the current fee for your specific transaction.
What if my license expired more than a year ago?
An expired license cannot be renewed by mail. You must visit the Memphis office in person and may need to retake the written test and vision test, depending on how long it has been expired. Call the office to ask what tests you will need to take before you go.