Get a replacement license by visiting your local Driver Services office with proof of identity and citizenship

Tennessee replaces lost driver's licenses through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security's Driver Services division. You cannot order a replacement online or by mail — you must appear in person at a Driver Services office with the required documents. The process takes about 30 minutes, and your new license is issued the same day.

The state charges a replacement fee of $27.50 for a standard license (as of 2024; fees may change). You will need to bring two forms of identification, proof of Tennessee residency, and your Social Security number. If you have a commercial driver's license (CDL), the replacement process is the same, but the fee is higher.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number to replace a lost license.
  • Tennessee charges $27.50 to replace a standard driver's license, and the new license is issued the same day.
  • Acceptable forms of ID include a passport, birth certificate, military ID, or previous Tennessee driver's license; you need two forms total.
  • Driver Services offices are located in most counties, and you can find your nearest office and check wait times on the TDSS website.
  • If you need to drive before your replacement arrives, you can request a temporary paper license at the office, though this is not standard practice.

What documents you need to bring

Tennessee requires two forms of identification to prove who you are. Acceptable documents include a U.S. passport, birth certificate, military ID, Social Security card, or your previous Tennessee driver's license if you still have it. If your previous license was lost with your current one, bring any other government-issued ID.

You also need proof that you live in Tennessee. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work. The document must show your name and current address. If you have recently moved and do not have a utility bill yet, a signed lease or a letter from your landlord stating your move-in date is acceptable.

Bring your Social Security number or Social Security card. If you do not have your card, you can provide your number verbally, and the office will verify it through the Social Security Administration's database.

Finding and visiting a Driver Services office

Tennessee has Driver Services offices in most counties. You can find your nearest office and check current wait times on the Department of Safety and Homeland Security website at tdss.tn.gov. The site lists office locations, hours, and phone numbers. Some offices are busier than others, and wait times vary by time of day and day of week.

You do not need an appointment at most offices, but some locations now offer online scheduling. Check your local office's page to see if appointments are available. Walk-ins are accepted, but arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.

Bring all required documents in original form — photocopies are not accepted for proof of identity or residency. If any document is in a language other than English, bring an official English translation as well.

What happens during the replacement process

When you arrive at the Driver Services office, you will check in and take a number. A staff member will review your documents to confirm your identity and residency. They will ask you to confirm your address and any other information on your previous license.

You will have a new photo taken for your replacement license. Wear the same type of clothing and grooming you would for any official photo. The office will then process your process, collect the $27.50 fee, and issue your new license before you leave. The entire process usually takes 20 to 40 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.

Your new license will have the same license number as your lost license, unless you request a new number. Most people keep the same number. The expiration date will be the same as your original license unless your license was already expired, in which case you may need to renew it at the same time.

If your license was also suspended or revoked

If your license was suspended or revoked when it was lost, you cannot straightforward replace it and drive. You must first resolve the suspension or revocation through the appropriate court or agency. Contact the Driver Services office or the court that issued the suspension to find out what steps are required.

Common reasons for suspension include unpaid traffic fines, failure to appear in court, or unpaid child support. If this applies to you, the Driver Services office can tell you which agency to contact and what documents you need to clear the suspension before a replacement license will be issued.

Replacing a license if you have changed your name

If you have changed your name since your last license was issued — through marriage, divorce, or legal name change — bring a certified copy of the document that proves the change. This might be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order for legal name change. The office will update your name on your new license at no additional cost.

If you do not have a certified copy, you can obtain one from the county clerk's office where the document was recorded. This usually takes a few days and costs between $10 and $25, depending on the county.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Tennessee does not issue temporary paper licenses for lost licenses. Your new license is issued the same day you visit the office, so you can drive when ready after your appointment. If you need to drive before you can visit an office, you may want to ask a family member or friend to drive you until you can get your replacement.

What if I lost my license out of state?

You must still visit a Tennessee Driver Services office in person to replace it. If you are currently out of state, you can wait until you return to Tennessee, or you can visit an office during a trip home. Your lost license remains valid for identification purposes until you officially report it lost and receive a replacement.

Do I need to report my license lost to the police?

You do not have to report a lost license to police. However, if you are concerned about identity theft — for example, if your license was lost along with other documents — you may want to file a report with the police department or contact the Tennessee Attorney General's office for guidance on protecting your identity.

What if I cannot find one of my required documents?

Contact your local Driver Services office before you visit. Staff can tell you which alternative documents they will accept in place of the ones you are missing. For example, if you do not have a birth certificate, a passport or military ID may be sufficient. The office can also advise you on how to obtain a missing document quickly.

Will my replacement license have a different number than my lost license?

No, your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license unless you request a new one. Most people keep the same number because it is tied to your driving record. If you want a new number for any reason, ask the staff member at the office, and they can issue one at no extra cost.