What you need to get a Tennessee learner's permit
A Tennessee learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult in the car. To get one, you visit your local Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) office with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. You will also take a written test on traffic laws and road signs, and pay a fee (the amount varies by county but is typically under $30).
You must be at least 15 years old. If you are under 18, you also need a parent or guardian to sign your process — they do not have to be present at the office, but the form requires their signature. Bring the original documents or certified copies; photocopies alone will not work.
Key Takeaways
- You need a TDOSHS office visit with proof of identity, residency, and your Social Security number, plus a parent's signature if you are under 18.
- The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws and road signs; you can study the official handbook free on the TDOSHS website before you go.
- Your learner's permit is valid for five years and costs less than $30 in most counties.
- Once you have your permit, you can only drive with a licensed adult age 21 or older in the front passenger seat.
- You must hold your learner's permit for at least 30 days before you can take the road test for your regular license.
Documents to bring to the TDOSHS office
Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, passport, or state ID. For proof of residency, bring a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days with your name and address on it. A school ID or report card does not count as proof of residency.
You will also need to provide your Social Security number. If you do not have a Social Security card, bring the Social Security Administration letter that was mailed to you when your number was issued. Write your number on the process form itself — you do not need to show the card.
The written test and what it covers
The test has 30 multiple-choice questions about Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass. The test is given on a computer at the TDOSHS office and takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Study the official Tennessee Driver Handbook, which TDOSHS publishes free and posts on its website. The handbook covers speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking, following distance, and what different road signs mean. Many people study it for a few hours over a week or two before taking the test. You can also take practice tests online through the TDOSHS website.
Restrictions on your learner's permit
While you hold a learner's permit, you can only drive when a licensed driver age 21 or older is sitting in the front passenger seat next to you. That adult must have a valid driver's license. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive with only teenage passengers in the car.
You also cannot use a cell phone while driving, even hands-free, except to report an emergency. This rule applies to all new drivers in Tennessee, not just permit holders. Violating these restrictions can result in a ticket and fines.
How long you hold your learner's permit
Your learner's permit is valid for five years from the date it is issued. However, you must hold it for at least 30 days before you can take the road test for your regular driver's license. Many people hold it for several months while they practice and build confidence.
If your permit expires before you pass the road test, you will need to renew it. Renewal requires another visit to the TDOSHS office and another fee. It is usually faster than getting your first permit because you do not have to retake the written test.
Finding your nearest TDOSHS office and scheduling
TDOSHS has driver service centers in every county. You can find the address and hours of your nearest office on the TDOSHS website by entering your county name. Some offices accept walk-ins, but many require you to schedule an appointment online or by phone. Call ahead or check the website for your specific location's policy.
Wait times vary by location and time of day. Mornings on weekdays are often less crowded than afternoons or weekends. Bring all your documents in one folder so you do not have to search for them at the counter.
What happens after you pass the written test
Once you pass, the TDOSHS staff will take your photo and issue your learner's permit on the spot. You will receive a plastic card that looks like a driver's license. Keep it with you every time you drive — it is your proof that you are allowed to be behind the wheel.
Your next step is to practice driving with your supervising adult. There is no required number of hours in Tennessee, but many people practice for several months before taking the road test. The more you practice in different conditions — rain, night driving, highway driving — the more prepared you will be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get my learner's permit if I do not have a Social Security number?
No. Tennessee law requires a Social Security number to issue a learner's permit. If you do not have one, you will need to explore for one through the Social Security Administration before you can get your permit.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is usually a small fee each time you retake the test. Most people pass on the second or third attempt after studying the handbook more.
Do I need to take a driver's education course to get my learner's permit?
No. A driver's education course is not required for the learner's permit itself. However, if you are under 18, completing an approved driver's education course can lower your insurance rates and may help you feel more confident before the road test.
Can someone other than a parent sign my process if I am under 18?
No. Tennessee requires a parent or legal guardian to sign. If you are in foster care or have a legal guardian who is not your parent, bring documentation of that guardianship to the TDOSHS office.
What if I move to a different county while I have my learner's permit?
Your permit remains valid. You do not need to reapply or visit a new TDOSHS office unless your permit is expiring soon and you want to renew it at your new location.