Getting a Duplicate Tennessee Driver's License
A duplicate Tennessee driver's license replaces a lost, stolen, or damaged license with an identical one — same number, same expiration date, same restrictions. You can request one in person at any Driver Services office, by mail, or online through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. The process takes about 10 business days by mail, same-day if you go in person, and the fee is $17.50.
You do not need to retake the written or vision test. The state straightforward issues a new card with your existing information. If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot get a duplicate until that status is cleared.
Key Takeaways
- You can request a duplicate license online, by mail, or in person at any Tennessee Driver Services office.
- The fee is $17.50, and you do not need to pass any tests — the state reissues your current license information on a new card.
- In-person requests are processed the same day; mail requests take about 10 business days.
- You will need your Social Security number and current license number or date of birth to request online or by mail.
- If your license is suspended or revoked, you must resolve that status before a duplicate can be issued.
Requesting a Duplicate Online
The online method is the fastest if you do not need the card when ready. Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website, select "Driver License Services," and choose "Duplicate License." You will need your Social Security number, current license number, and date of birth. You can pay the $17.50 fee by debit or credit card.
After you submit the request, the state mails the new card to the address on file with your current license. If that address has changed, update it before you request the duplicate, or the card will go to the old location. The mailing process takes about 10 business days from the time your request is processed.
Getting a Duplicate in Person at a Driver Services Office
Walk into any Tennessee Driver Services office with your current license or another form of ID, fill out the duplicate request form, pay $17.50, and leave with your new card the same day. Bring a photo ID — your current license, passport, military ID, or state ID all work. If you have lost your license and have no photo ID, bring two non-photo documents instead, such as a birth certificate and Social Security card.
Driver Services offices are located in every county. You can find the nearest one and its hours on the Department of Safety website. Most offices do not require an appointment, but some busy locations accept them. Call ahead if you are traveling more than 30 minutes to confirm the office is open and not experiencing a long wait.
Requesting a Duplicate by Mail
Complete the process for Duplicate Driver License form (form DL 43), include a copy of your current license or another photo ID, and mail both to the address listed on the form along with a check or money order for $17.50. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with your current address if you want the new card mailed back to you quickly.
Mail requests take longer than in-person or online requests — typically 10 to 15 business days from the time the state receives your envelope. The state processes mail in batches, so timing varies. If you need the card by a specific date, in-person is your safest option.
What Happens If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked
Tennessee will not issue a duplicate if your license is currently suspended or revoked. You must first clear the suspension or revocation through the court or the Department of Safety, depending on the reason. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, or DUI convictions.
Check your license status on the Department of Safety website before you request a duplicate. If a suspension or revocation is listed, contact the issuing court or the department directly to find out what steps are required to restore your driving privileges. Once that is resolved, you can request the duplicate.
Replacing a License That Has Expired
If your license has expired, you cannot get a duplicate — you must renew it instead. Renewal requires passing a vision test and paying a renewal fee, which is higher than the duplicate fee. You can renew online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services office, but the process is different from requesting a duplicate.
Check the expiration date on your current license. If it has passed, search for "Tennessee driver license renewal" instead. If your license is still valid but lost or damaged, a duplicate is the correct path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a duplicate if I have moved and not updated my address?
Yes, but the new card will be mailed to the address currently on file with the state. Before you request the duplicate, update your address through the Department of Safety website or at a Driver Services office. This ensures the card reaches you at your current location.
What if I lost my license and do not have any photo ID?
Bring two non-photo documents instead, such as a birth certificate, Social Security card, utility bill, or bank statement. The Driver Services office will accept these in place of a photo ID when you request the duplicate in person.
How long does a duplicate license take if I order it online?
Online requests are processed within one to two business days, and the card is then mailed to your address. Total time is usually 10 business days from submission. If you need it faster, go to a Driver Services office in person and receive it the same day.
Can I request a duplicate if my license was suspended for unpaid fines?
No. You must pay the fines or resolve the suspension through the court first. Once the suspension is cleared, you can request the duplicate. Check your status on the Department of Safety website to see what action is required.
Is the duplicate fee the same as the renewal fee?
No. A duplicate costs $17.50 and does not require a test. A renewal costs more and requires a vision test because your license has expired. If your license is still valid, a duplicate is what you need.