Tennessee driver's license renewal costs between $27 and $31.50, depending on whether you renew in person or by mail
The exact amount you pay depends on how long your new license will be valid. A standard four-year renewal costs $27. If you want an eight-year license — available only if you renew in person at a Driver Services Center — you'll pay $31.50. The difference covers the longer validity period.
These are the only fees charged by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security for a standard renewal. You won't encounter hidden charges or additional processing fees when you renew through official channels.
Key Takeaways
- A four-year Tennessee driver's license renewal costs $27, whether you renew by mail or in person.
- An eight-year renewal costs $31.50 and is only available if you renew in person at a Driver Services Center.
- Payment methods accepted include cash, check, debit card, and credit card at in-person locations; by-mail renewals require a check or money order.
- You can renew by mail starting 180 days before your license expires, which may save you a trip to a Driver Services Center.
- If your license has been expired for more than three years, you cannot renew by mail and must appear in person, which may involve additional testing.
How to pay when you renew in person
At any Tennessee Driver Services Center, you can pay your renewal fee with cash, a debit card, or a credit card. Some locations also accept personal checks, though you should call ahead to confirm. The staff will collect payment when you submit your renewal documents and take your new photo.
Driver Services Centers are operated by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. You can find the location nearest you and check its hours on the department's website. Walk-in service is available, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
How to pay when you renew by mail
Mail-in renewals require a check or money order made payable to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security. Do not send cash through the mail. Include your payment with your completed renewal form and any required documents in the envelope you send to the address listed on the renewal notice.
Mail-in renewal is available if your license is not expired or has been expired for fewer than three years. You can start the process 180 days before your license expires. Processing typically takes two to three weeks after the department receives your envelope, though times vary during busy periods.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than three years
If your license expired more than three years ago, you cannot renew by mail. You must visit a Driver Services Center in person. Beyond paying the standard renewal fee, you may be required to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test, depending on your age and how long your license has been expired.
The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws and safe driving practices. If you need to study, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security publishes a free driver's manual on its website. You can also take practice tests online before your appointment.
Additional costs you might encounter
The $27 or $31.50 renewal fee covers your new license card and the processing. However, if you need a replacement license before your renewal is complete — for example, if your current license is lost or damaged — you would pay a separate replacement fee of $17.50 for a four-year license or $22 for an eight-year license.
If you request a duplicate license at the same time as your renewal, you pay both fees. Some people do this if they want to keep a copy of their old license for records or if they're concerned about losing their license before the new one arrives.
How to avoid paying twice
Plan your renewal before your license expires. You can renew starting 180 days before the expiration date printed on your current license. Renewing early means you won't accidentally let your license expire, which would require you to pay a replacement fee if you need to drive before your renewal is processed.
If you're unsure when your license expires, check the expiration date on the front of your card. You can also log into your account on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website to see your license status and expiration date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my renewal fee online?
No. You must pay in person at a Driver Services Center or by check or money order if you renew by mail. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security does not offer online payment for renewals at this time.
What if I'm renewing while I'm out of state?
You can renew by mail from anywhere in the United States if your license is not expired or has been expired for fewer than three years. Mail your completed renewal form, payment, and required documents to the address on your renewal notice. If your license has been expired for more than three years, you must renew in person at a Tennessee Driver Services Center.
Do military members or seniors get a discount on renewal fees?
Tennessee does not offer reduced renewal fees based on military service or age. All drivers pay the standard $27 for a four-year renewal or $31.50 for an eight-year renewal. However, some Driver Services Centers offer extended hours or separate lines for seniors — call ahead to ask about accommodations at your location.
What if I'm renewing a commercial driver's license?
Commercial driver's license renewals have different fees than standard licenses. Contact the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security or visit a Driver Services Center to learn the current cost for your specific CDL class and endorsements.