Tennessee replaces lost licenses through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, either in person at a local office or by mail

To replace a lost Tennessee driver's license, you have two routes: visit a Driver Services office in person with required documents, or request a replacement by mail if you meet specific conditions. The in-person route takes about 30 minutes and you leave with a temporary license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is mailed. The mail route takes longer — typically two to three weeks — but works if you haven't had your license suspended, revoked, or cancelled, and you're not required to take a new photo.

Tennessee's Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS) handles all driver's license replacements. You'll need to bring proof of identity, proof of Tennessee residency, and your Social Security number. If you're replacing a lost license, you don't need to retake the written or driving test — you're straightforward getting a duplicate of your existing license with the same class and restrictions.

Key Takeaways

  • In-person replacement at any Driver Services office requires a valid ID, proof of residency, and your Social Security number, and takes about 30 minutes.
  • You'll receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days while your permanent card is printed and mailed to you.
  • Mail-in replacement is available only if your license was not suspended, revoked, or cancelled, and you don't need a new photo.
  • The replacement fee is the same whether you go in person or by mail, and varies based on how many years remain on your license.
  • Driver Services offices are located in most counties; you can find your nearest office on the DSHS website.

What documents you need to bring in person

For an in-person replacement, bring one form of valid photo ID — a passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license all work. You'll also need proof that you live in Tennessee. Acceptable residency documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. Your name on the residency document must match the name on your photo ID.

You must also provide your Social Security number. If you don't have it memorized, bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a tax return or W-2. Bring your current Tennessee driver's license if you still have it — if it's truly lost, tell the clerk and they'll note that in the system.

In-person replacement at a Driver Services office

Find your nearest Driver Services office using the DSHS office locator on their website. Most counties have at least one office; larger cities have multiple locations. Hours vary by office, but most are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours. Some offices offer extended hours or Saturday appointments — check your specific location before you go.

Walk in with your documents or check whether your office takes appointments. Wait times range from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the time of day and day of week. Early morning and mid-week visits typically have shorter waits. When you reach the counter, tell the clerk you're replacing a lost license. They'll verify your documents, take a new photo (unless you request to use your old photo), and process your replacement on the spot.

You'll pay the replacement fee at the counter. The cost depends on how long your new license will be valid — a four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready that's valid for 30 days. Your permanent card will arrive by mail within two to three weeks. Keep the temporary license with you until the permanent one arrives.

Mail-in replacement if you're ineligible for in-person service

You can request a replacement by mail only if your Tennessee license was not suspended, revoked, or cancelled, and you don't need a new photo. To check your license status, call the DSHS Driver Services line at 615-251-8590 or check online through the DSHS website. If your status is clear, you can proceed with a mail request.

Contact DSHS by phone or visit their website to request a mail-in duplicate. You'll need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, and Social Security number. Pay the replacement fee by credit card or debit card over the phone. DSHS will mail your new license to the address on file with your current license. If you've moved, update your address before requesting the replacement, or call to have them mail it to your new address.

Mail-in replacements typically arrive within two to three weeks. Unlike in-person replacements, you won't receive a temporary license, so you won't have a valid license to carry during that time. If you need to drive before the new card arrives, go in person instead.

What happens if your address has changed

If you've moved since your last license was issued, you have two options. You can update your address at the same time you replace your lost license by going in person — bring proof of your new residency along with your other documents. The clerk will update your address in the system and issue your replacement with the new address printed on it.

If you're doing a mail-in replacement, call DSHS before submitting your request and ask them to update your address in the system. Provide your new address and confirm it will be used for mailing your replacement license. If you don't update your address first, your new license will be mailed to your old address and you'll have to retrieve it or request it be reissued.

Fees and what affects the cost

Tennessee charges a flat replacement fee for a duplicate license, but the total cost varies based on the license class and how many years of validity you're purchasing. A standard Class D passenger license costs less than a commercial Class A or Class B license. An eight-year license costs more than a four-year license.

As of recent years, a standard four-year Class D replacement typically costs around $27, and an eight-year replacement around $54, but these amounts change periodically. Check the current fee on the DSHS website or ask when you call. The fee is the same whether you replace in person or by mail. You pay at the counter for in-person replacements and by phone or online for mail-in requests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license to drive while I wait for my replacement?

Yes, if you replace in person. You receive a temporary paper license valid for 30 days when ready after your transaction. If you do a mail-in replacement, you won't receive a temporary license, so you won't have a valid license to carry. If you need to drive before your new card arrives, go in person instead.

What if I don't have proof of residency?

You must bring one document showing your Tennessee address dated within the last 60 days. If you don't have a utility bill, lease, or bank statement, ask the clerk what other documents they accept — some offices accept insurance bills, voter registration cards, or government mail. Call your local office ahead of time to confirm what they'll take.

Do I have to retake the written or driving test to replace a lost license?

No. A replacement is a duplicate of your existing license with the same class and restrictions. You only retake tests if your license was suspended, revoked, or cancelled, or if you're upgrading to a different class.

How long does it take to get my permanent license in the mail?

Most permanent licenses arrive within two to three weeks of your in-person replacement or mail request. If you don't receive it within four weeks, call DSHS to check the status. Delays can happen, especially during high-volume periods.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot get a replacement by mail if your license was suspended or revoked. You must go in person to a Driver Services office. The clerk will explain the status and tell you what steps you need to take to restore your driving privileges before a replacement can be issued.