Where to find your Tennessee driver's license number

Your Tennessee driver's license number is printed on the front of your physical license card, in the upper right corner. It is an eight-digit number that starts with a digit (usually 0 through 9), followed by seven more digits. If you have your card in front of you right now, that is the fastest way to locate it.

If you cannot find your physical card or it has been lost or stolen, you have several other ways to retrieve the number without ordering a replacement. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security maintains your license information in their system and can provide it to you over the phone or through an online lookup.

Key Takeaways

  • Your driver's license number appears on the front of your physical card in the upper right corner as an eight-digit number.
  • You can call the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security at 615-251-8590 to request your number by phone.
  • The Tennessee online driver record system allows you to view your license information if you have your Social Security number and date of birth.
  • If your license is lost or stolen, you can report it and request a replacement through the same department.

Calling the Tennessee Department of Safety

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security operates a phone line where you can request your driver's license number. Call 615-251-8590 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time). Have your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number ready when you call.

The staff member will verify your identity using this information and then provide your eight-digit license number over the phone. This process usually takes fewer than five minutes. Write down the number they give you so you have it for future reference.

Using the Tennessee online driver record system

Tennessee offers an online portal where you can view your own driver record, which includes your license number. Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety website and look for the "Driver License Information" or "Online Services" section. You will need to enter your Social Security number and date of birth to access your record.

Once you log in, your full driver's license information will display on screen, including your eight-digit license number. You can print or screenshot this page for your records. This method works at any time of day and does not require you to call during business hours.

What to do if your license is lost or stolen

If you cannot locate your license and suspect it is lost or stolen, you should report it to the Tennessee Department of Safety. You can do this by phone at 615-251-8590 or in person at your nearest Driver Services office. Reporting it prevents someone else from using your license number fraudulently.

When you report a lost or stolen license, the department will deactivate that number in their system. You can request a replacement card at the same time. A replacement license costs a fee (the amount varies, so confirm the current cost when you call) and typically arrives by mail within two to three weeks.

Finding your number through a previous transaction

If you have documents from a previous interaction with the Tennessee Department of Safety, your license number may be printed on them. Check any renewal notices, correspondence from the department, or insurance documents you received when you last updated your license. Insurance companies often record your driver's license number on your policy paperwork.

You can also check with your employer or bank if you provided your license number during an process or verification process. Many organizations keep copies of identification on file, and they may be able to confirm the number for you.

Visiting a Driver Services office in person

If you prefer to handle this in person, you can visit any Tennessee Driver Services office and ask staff to look up your license number. Bring a form of identification such as a passport, birth certificate, or state ID card. Staff will verify your identity and provide your number on the spot.

Driver Services offices are located throughout Tennessee. You can find the office nearest you on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Hours vary by location, so check before you go. This option works well if you need your number when ready and do not have access to a phone or computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I do not have my Social Security number memorized?

You will need your Social Security number to use the online system or to verify your identity by phone. If you do not have it memorized, check documents like your tax return, W-2 form, or Social Security card. Alternatively, visit a Driver Services office in person with a photo ID and staff can look up your license number without requiring your Social Security number.

Can I get my license number if someone else holds my physical card?

Yes. You can retrieve your license number through any of the methods described here — by phone, online, or in person — using only your personal information. Your license number belongs to you, not to whoever has possession of the physical card.

Is my driver's license number the same as my license plate number?

No. Your driver's license number is an eight-digit identifier printed on your license card. Your license plate number is a separate code on your vehicle's registration plate. They are not related and serve different purposes.

What if the online system says my license is expired?

You can still retrieve your license number even if your license has expired. However, you will need to renew your license before you can legally drive. Contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to learn about renewal options, which may include renewing by mail, online, or in person depending on your situation.