The Morristown Driver License Office Location and Hours

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security operates a driver license office in Morristown at 1640 Old Newport Highway, Morristown, TN 37814. This is the main location where Hamblen County residents can renew, replace, or obtain a driver license or ID card.

Hours vary by day and change seasonally, so call ahead before you go. The office phone number is (423) 581-4030. You can also check current hours on the Tennessee Department of Safety website by searching for the Morristown office location.

The office is typically busier on Mondays and mid-month, so going early in the week or at the start of the month may mean shorter wait times. Bring all required documents with you on your first visit — going back a second time because you forgot something costs you another trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The Morristown driver license office is located at 1640 Old Newport Highway and serves Hamblen County residents.
  • You must bring specific documents depending on whether you are renewing, replacing, or obtaining a license for the first time.
  • Call (423) 581-4030 to confirm hours before you visit, as they change by season and day of the week.
  • Bring proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number or card to complete most transactions.

What Documents You Need to Bring

The documents required depend on what you are doing. For a renewal, you need your current driver license or ID card, proof of residency (a utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within the last 60 days), and your Social Security number or card. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that changed it — a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

For a replacement (lost, stolen, or damaged license), bring your Social Security number or card, proof of residency, and a form of ID if you have one. If you do not have ID, bring two documents that show your name and address, such as a utility bill and a bank statement.

For a first-time license or ID card, the requirements are more involved. You need proof of identity (a birth certificate, passport, or certified adoption record), proof of Social Security (your card or a Social Security statement), proof of residency, and proof of your legal name and date of birth. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted for most documents.

Fees and Payment Methods

Driver license and ID card fees vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A standard driver license typically costs between $27 and $32 for an eight-year renewal, though the exact amount changes based on whether you renew in person or by mail. A replacement license costs less than a renewal. The office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.

If you are under 21, the fee is different and the license looks different — it has a vertical orientation instead of horizontal. Ask the staff at the office about the exact cost for your age group when you arrive.

Renewing by Mail Instead of In Person

If your license is not expired and you have not had any violations or address changes, you may be able to renew by mail instead of visiting the office. You can request a mail renewal form from the Tennessee Department of Safety website or by calling the Morristown office. Mail renewal takes longer — typically four to six weeks — so do not wait until your license is about to expire.

Mail renewal is not an option if your license has been expired for more than one year, if you need to change your address, or if you are renewing a commercial driver license. In those cases, you must visit the office in person.

What to Expect During Your Visit

When you arrive, check in at the front desk and give them your documents. A staff member will review them to make sure everything is there and correct. If something is missing or incorrect, they will tell you what you need to fix or bring back. If everything is in order, you will move to the next step.

You will take a new photo for your license (unless you are renewing by mail). You may also take a vision test and a written test if you are obtaining a license for the first time or if your license class is changing. The vision test checks that you can see well enough to drive safely. The written test covers road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices.

After you pass any required tests and pay the fee, your new license or ID card is printed on site. You receive it before you leave, though it may take a few days to arrive by mail if the office is very busy.

Getting a Commercial Driver License in Morristown

If you need a commercial driver license (CDL) — required to drive large trucks, buses, or vehicles carrying hazardous materials — the Morristown office can help you get your free guide, but the full process involves more steps. You must pass a written test specific to the type of vehicle you will drive, a vision test, and a skills test (driving test). The written test covers federal regulations, vehicle inspection, and safe operation.

The Morristown office administers the written and vision tests, but the skills test is conducted at a separate location. Ask the staff which testing sites are nearest to you. The entire CDL process can take several weeks, so plan ahead if your job depends on getting licensed quickly.

If You Cannot Visit the Morristown Office

If you live in a different county or cannot reach Morristown, Tennessee has driver license offices in most major cities. You can visit any office in the state to renew, replace, or obtain a license — you do not have to go to the one in your county. The Tennessee Department of Safety website has a full list of office locations and hours.

Some services, like renewing by mail or online, may be available depending on your situation. Check the state website or call (423) 581-4030 to ask whether your specific transaction can be done without visiting an office.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a new driver license at the Morristown office?

You receive your license the same day you visit if everything is in order and the office is not extremely busy. In rare cases, the office may mail it to you within a few days. Bring all required documents to avoid delays.

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the office?

Tennessee does not offer full online renewal, but you may be able to renew by mail if your license is current and you have no violations or address changes. Call the Morristown office at (423) 581-4030 to ask if you are may be able to access for mail renewal.

What if I do not have a birth certificate or passport?

You can use other documents to prove your identity, such as a naturalization certificate, adoption record, or court order showing your legal name. The office staff can tell you which documents they accept. Bring whatever identity documents you have when you visit.

Do I need an appointment to visit the Morristown driver license office?

The office operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not require appointments. However, you can call ahead to ask about wait times before you go. Visiting early in the day or early in the week usually means shorter waits.

What if my address has changed since my last license?

You must visit the office in person to update your address. Bring proof of your new residency, such as a utility bill or lease dated within the last 60 days. You can update your address at the same time you renew or replace your license.