What to do if your Tennessee driver's license has expired
If your Tennessee driver's license has expired, you can renew it by mail, online, or in person at a Driver Services office. The method you choose depends on how long it has been expired and whether you need to update your photo or address. Tennessee allows online renewal for licenses that expired within the last three years, but if yours expired more than three years ago, you must renew in person.
You do not need to take a new written test or vision test to renew an expired license in most cases. However, you will need to pay the renewal fee, which varies depending on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. Having an expired license means you cannot legally drive, so the sooner you renew, the sooner you can get back on the road.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee allows online renewal for licenses expired within three years; licenses expired longer than three years require an in-person visit to a Driver Services office.
- You will need your Social Security number, current address, and payment method (credit or debit card for online renewal) to complete the process.
- The renewal fee depends on your license type and how many years you want the license to be valid, typically ranging from $27 to $35 for a standard license.
- If you renew online or by mail, your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days after approval.
- If your address has changed or you want a new photo, you must renew in person at a Driver Services office.
Renewing online if your license expired within three years
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security allows online renewal through their website if your license expired no more than three years ago. To start, visit the TDOSHS Driver Services online renewal portal and enter your driver's license number, date of birth, and last four digits of your Social Security number. The system will verify your information and show you the renewal fee.
You will need a valid credit or debit card to pay the fee online. Once you submit your payment, your process is complete. Tennessee will mail your new license to the address on file, which typically takes 7 to 10 business days after approval. If you need to change your address or want a new photo, online renewal is not an option — you must go in person.
Renewing by mail for licenses expired within one year
If your license expired within the last year, you can renew by mail without visiting an office. Complete the Driver License Renewal process (Form DL 43), which you can read from the TDOSHS website or request by calling 615-251-8590. Include a check or money order for the renewal fee made payable to the Tennessee Department of Safety.
Mail the completed form and payment to the address listed on the process. Processing by mail takes longer than online renewal — typically 2 to 3 weeks after they receive your materials. Keep a copy of your process for your records. If you do not receive your new license within 4 weeks, contact the Driver Services office to check the status.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services office
You must renew in person if your license expired more than three years ago, if you want to change your photo or address, or if you prefer not to renew online or by mail. Bring your expired driver's license, proof of Tennessee residency (such as a utility bill or lease), and payment for the renewal fee. If your address has changed since your license was issued, bring a document showing your new address.
Visit the TDOSHS Driver Services office locator on their website to find the office nearest you and check their hours. Wait times vary by location and time of day; many offices are busier in the morning and on weekdays. When you arrive, you will take a new photo and pay the renewal fee. You will receive a temporary paper license when ready, and your permanent license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
The cost to renew your Tennessee driver's license depends on the type of license and how long you want it to be valid. A standard Class D license can be renewed for 4, 5, or 8 years. The renewal fee is approximately $27 for a 4-year license, $30 for a 5-year license, and $35 for an 8-year license. These amounts are current but may change, so confirm the exact fee when you begin your renewal.
If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL) or a motorcycle endorsement, the fee may be different. Seniors age 65 and older may be may be able to access for a reduced renewal fee. When you renew, you can choose how many years you want your new license to be valid, so you can select the option that fits your budget and needs.
What happens if you drive with an expired license
Driving with an expired Tennessee driver's license is illegal and can result in a traffic citation. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you may receive a ticket, which typically carries a fine. The severity of the penalty depends on how long your license has been expired and whether you have prior violations.
Beyond legal consequences, driving with an expired license can complicate insurance claims if you are in an accident. Your insurance company may deny coverage or reduce your claim payout if you were driving illegally. For these reasons, it is important to renew your license as soon as you notice it has expired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive to the Driver Services office if my license is expired?
Technically, driving with an expired license is illegal, even to renew it. However, many people do drive directly to the office to renew. To reduce risk, go early in the morning when traffic is light, take the most direct route, and avoid highways if possible. A safer option is to have someone else drive you, or to renew online or by mail if you are within the three-year window.
What if I lost my expired license and cannot find it?
You can still renew without your physical license. When you renew online, in person, or by mail, you will provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number for verification. If you do not remember your license number, the Driver Services office can look it up using your name and date of birth.
How long does it take to get my renewed license in the mail?
After your renewal is approved, Tennessee typically mails your new license within 7 to 10 business days. Delivery time depends on your location and the postal service. If you do not receive it within 2 weeks, contact the Driver Services office to confirm your address and check processing status.
Do I need a new vision test to renew my expired license?
No, you do not need a vision test for a standard renewal. However, if you renew in person, the office may conduct a brief vision screening as part of the process. If you have concerns about your vision or your license was suspended for medical reasons, contact the Driver Services office before renewing.
Can I renew my license if I owe a traffic fine or have an outstanding warrant?
Tennessee may hold your renewal if you have unpaid traffic fines or other legal issues. If your online renewal is denied, contact the Driver Services office to find out why. You may need to resolve the issue before your license can be renewed. The office can tell you what steps to take next.