Where to change your address on your Tennessee driver's license

You can change your address with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) in three ways: online through the TDOSHS website, by mail, or in person at a driver services center. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and you receive a new license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. In-person visits at a driver services center take the same amount of time but you walk out with an updated license when ready.

The online option works only if your current Tennessee license is not expired and you have not changed your name. If either of those conditions applies to you, you must go in person or mail your request. Mail processing takes 2 to 3 weeks, so use that route only if you are not in a hurry.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the TDOSHS website is the fastest method if your license is current and your name has not changed.
  • You will need your current Tennessee driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new address to change your address online.
  • In-person visits at any driver services center give you an updated license the same day, though you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on location and time of day.
  • If you change your address by mail, include your current license, a completed form, and proof of your new address, and expect the new license in 2 to 3 weeks.
  • You do not pay a fee to change your address on an existing license, but you will receive a new physical license with your updated information.

Changing your address online through the TDOSHS website

Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and look for the "Online Services" or "Driver License Services" section. You will see an option to update your address. Click it and you will be asked to enter your current Tennessee driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your new street address, city, state, and ZIP code.

After you submit this information, the system will confirm your identity and process the change. You will receive a confirmation email, and your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You do not need to visit a driver services center, and there is no fee for this transaction.

If the online system rejects your request, it usually means your license is expired, your name does not match the records, or there is a mismatch in the personal information you entered. In that case, you will need to visit a driver services center in person or mail your request instead.

Changing your address in person at a driver services center

Find the driver services center nearest you on the TDOSHS website by entering your county or city. Most centers are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Bring your current Tennessee driver's license and proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work.

When you arrive, take a number at the entrance and wait to be called. Tell the clerk you need to update your address. They will verify your identity using your current license, confirm your new address, and take a new photo if required. The entire process takes 10 to 15 minutes at the counter, though wait times vary by location and time of day — early morning or mid-week visits tend to be faster.

You will pay no fee for an address change. You will receive your new license with your updated address printed on it before you leave the center. If you need your license for identification purposes when ready, this is the only method that gives you the updated license the same day.

Changing your address by mail

Request a form from the TDOSHS website or call the driver services customer service line to have one mailed to you. The form is called the process for Duplicate Driver License or Instruction Permit. Fill out the sections that explore to your situation — mark that you are updating your address only, not explore for a new license.

Include your current Tennessee driver's license, a copy of proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and the completed form. Mail everything to the address listed on the TDOSHS website for your region. Include a return envelope if you want the materials sent back to you, though the department will keep your current license.

Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the date the department receives your mail. Your new license will arrive by mail at your new address. There is no fee for this service. If you do not receive your new license within 4 weeks, contact the TDOSHS customer service line to check the status of your request.

What proof of address the TDOSHS accepts

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security accepts several documents as proof of your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A lease agreement, mortgage statement, property tax bill, or bank or credit card statement also works if it shows your name and new address and is dated within 60 days.

Government-issued documents like a voter registration card or tax return are also acceptable. If you are moving into a new home and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name, a signed letter from your landlord or a property manager on official letterhead stating your new address and move-in date can work as a temporary substitute — ask the driver services center or call ahead to confirm before you visit.

Do not bring a handwritten note or a piece of mail addressed to you. The document must be official and show your full name and complete address. If your name on the proof document does not match your license exactly, bring a second document that shows both names (such as a marriage certificate or court order) to explain the difference.

Timeline and what to expect after you submit your request

If you change your address online, your new license arrives in 7 to 10 business days. If you visit a driver services center in person, you receive your updated license before you leave. If you mail your request, expect 2 to 3 weeks from the date the department receives your envelope.

Your new license will be mailed to the address you provided. If you are moving and your mail is not yet being forwarded, give the TDOSHS your new address so the license arrives at the right place. If you change your address online or by mail and then move again before your new license arrives, contact the TDOSHS customer service line to update your mailing address.

Your old license remains valid for identification purposes until your new one arrives, so you can continue to use it. Once your new license arrives, destroy your old one or keep it for your records — Tennessee does not require you to return it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay a fee to change my address on my Tennessee driver's license?

No. Changing your address on an existing license is free. You will receive a new physical license with your updated address printed on it, but there is no charge for this service.

Can I change my address if my license is expired?

No, not online. If your license is expired, you must visit a driver services center in person or mail your request. At a driver services center, you can renew your license and update your address at the same time, though you will pay the renewal fee.

What if I move before my new license arrives in the mail?

Call the TDOSHS customer service line and provide your new mailing address. They can update where your license is being sent. If you already submitted your request and cannot reach the department in time, you may need to visit a driver services center in person to update your address again.

How long does an in-person address change take at a driver services center?

The transaction at the counter takes 10 to 15 minutes, but you may wait 30 minutes to an hour depending on how busy the center is. Visiting early in the morning or on a weekday mid-week usually means shorter waits.

Can I change my address online if my name has changed since I got my license?

No. If your name has changed, you must visit a driver services center in person or mail your request. Bring a court order, marriage certificate, or divorce decree showing your name change along with your current license and proof of your new address.