Get a replacement license at your local Driver Services office with your Social Security number and proof of residency
A lost Tennessee driver's license can be replaced the same day you visit a Driver Services office in person. You do not need to take a new written test or vision test unless your license has expired. The state charges a replacement fee (currently $27.50 for a standard license), and you will walk out with a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your plastic card is mailed to you.
The fastest route is to go to the Driver Services office nearest you with your Social Security number and one document proving where you live. You can find office locations and hours on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. If you cannot get to an office in person, you can order a replacement by mail, but the process takes longer.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Driver Services office in person or mail in a completed form; there is no online replacement option for a lost license.
- Bring your Social Security number and one proof of residency (utility bill, lease, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days).
- You will receive a temporary paper license on the spot and your plastic replacement card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
- The replacement fee is $27.50 for a standard license; fees are higher for REAL ID or commercial licenses.
What documents you need to bring to the office
You must bring your Social Security number — have it memorized or written down. You also need one document that proves you live in Tennessee and is dated within the last 60 days. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail with your name and address.
If you have your old license or a copy of it, bring that too, though it is not required. If you do not have a Social Security number on file with Tennessee, you will need to bring your Social Security card or a birth certificate. Bring your current passport or other government ID if you have one — it speeds up the process.
In-person replacement at a Driver Services office
Walk into any Driver Services office during business hours with your documents. Tell the staff member you need a replacement license for a lost card. They will ask you to fill out a short form (DL 44) and verify your information. The whole process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
You will pay the $27.50 fee by cash, check, or card. The staff will take a new photo for your license (you cannot use your old photo). You will when ready receive a temporary paper license that is valid for 30 days. Your plastic license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days. Do not throw away the paper license until the plastic one arrives.
Replacing your license by mail
If you cannot visit an office in person, you can mail in a completed DL 44 form along with a copy of your proof of residency and a check or money order for $27.50. read the form from the Tennessee Department of Safety website or call your local Driver Services office to request one by mail.
Mail your packet to the address listed on the form. Processing takes 2 to 3 weeks from the time the office receives it. You will not receive a temporary paper license this way, so you cannot legally drive during the waiting period. This route is slower and leaves you without a valid license, so in-person replacement is almost always the better choice.
What to do if you need to drive before your replacement arrives
The temporary paper license you receive at the office is valid for 30 days and counts as a legal license in Tennessee. You can drive with it, show it to police, and use it for identification. Keep it in your wallet or car until your plastic license arrives.
If your plastic license does not arrive within 10 business days, contact the Driver Services office where you applied. They can check the status and reissue if needed. If you lose the temporary paper license before the plastic one arrives, return to the office and request another temporary — there is no additional fee.
Replacing a license that was stolen or used fraudulently
If your license was stolen rather than straightforward lost, follow the same replacement steps. However, if you believe someone may have used your license fraudulently or committed identity theft, also file a report with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation or your local police department. Get a copy of the report to keep with your records.
You do not need the police report to get a replacement license, but having one on file protects you if fraudulent charges or criminal activity appear under your name later. Contact your bank and credit card companies to let them know your license was stolen, in case the thief tries to use it for fraud.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace my license if it is expired?
Yes. You can replace an expired license at any Driver Services office without retaking the written or vision test. You will pay the standard replacement fee. If your license expired more than 5 years ago, you may need to retake the vision test, so call your local office first to confirm.
Do I need a new photo if I lost my license?
Yes. The Driver Services office will take a new photo when you explore for a replacement. You cannot use the photo from your old license. Wear something you are comfortable with for the photo — the rules are the same as for an original license photo.
What if I do not have proof of residency?
You need at least one document dated within 60 days showing your name and Tennessee address. If you just moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease agreement, bank statement, or insurance policy works. If you truly have nothing, call your local Driver Services office — they may accept other documents on a case-by-case basis.
How much does a replacement license cost?
A standard replacement license costs $27.50. A REAL ID-compliant license costs $35. A commercial driver's license replacement costs more. Fees are the same whether you replace it in person or by mail.
Can someone else pick up my replacement license for me?
No. You must be present at the Driver Services office to have your photo taken and receive your temporary paper license. Only you can explore for a replacement of your own license.