What you need before you explore
Tennessee issues driver's licenses through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of Driver Services. You can get your first license, renew an expired one, or replace a lost or damaged license at any of their driver services centers across the state.
Before you go to a center, gather these documents: proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2 form, or tax return), proof of your Tennessee residency (utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days), and a valid form of identification (passport, military ID, or out-of-state driver's license). If you were born outside the United States, bring your birth certificate or passport.
You will also need to pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about traffic laws and road signs. The written test is offered in English and Spanish. If you are under 18, you will need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form.
Key Takeaways
- You need proof of your Social Security number, proof of Tennessee residency, and a valid ID before you visit a driver services center.
- All applicants must pass a vision test and a written knowledge test about Tennessee traffic laws.
- The written test is available in English and Spanish at most locations.
- First-time applicants under 18 need a parent or guardian to sign a consent form at the center.
- You can find your nearest driver services center and check wait times on the Tennessee Department of Safety website.
The written test and what it covers
The knowledge test has 30 questions about Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass. The test covers topics like speed limits, right-of-way rules, parking laws, and what different road signs mean.
You can study using the Tennessee Driver's Handbook, which is free and available on the Department of Safety website. Many people also use online practice tests to prepare. You are allowed to take the test up to three times in one day if you do not pass on your first attempt, but you must wait one day before trying again after that.
The vision test and driving test requirements
At the driver services center, you will take a vision screening. You must be able to see at least 20/40 in each eye with or without corrective lenses. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you.
For a standard driver's license, you do not take a behind-the-wheel driving test at the center. However, if you are under 18 and explore for your first license, Tennessee's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program has restrictions: you must hold a learner's permit for at least 30 days, complete a driver education course, and pass a driving test with a certified examiner before you can get an unrestricted license.
Graduated Driver License rules for drivers under 18
If you are under 18, you start with a learner's permit, not a full license. To get the permit, you must pass the written test and vision test at a driver services center. Once you have the permit, you must hold it for at least 30 days before you can move to the next step.
During the learner's permit phase, you can only drive with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old in the front seat. You cannot use a cell phone while driving, and you must follow all traffic laws.
After 30 days, you can take a driving test with a certified examiner. This is a behind-the-wheel test where an examiner watches you drive and evaluates your ability to control the vehicle, follow traffic laws, and respond to road conditions. Once you pass, you receive a restricted license. The restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you hold the restricted license for six months, whichever comes first.
Cost and how long it takes
A Tennessee driver's license costs $28.50 for an eight-year license. Payment is cash, check, or card at the driver services center. The license is valid for eight years from the date you receive it.
Wait times at driver services centers vary by location and time of day. You can check current wait times on the Tennessee Department of Safety website before you go. Many centers are busier in the morning and on Fridays, so going on a weekday afternoon may be faster. Some centers allow you to schedule an appointment online, which can reduce your wait time.
Where to find a driver services center near you
Tennessee has driver services centers in most counties. You can find the address, hours, and current wait times for the center nearest you on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. Enter your county or city, and the site will show you all nearby locations.
Centers are usually open Monday through Friday during business hours, though some offer limited Saturday hours. Call ahead if you are traveling a long distance, because some smaller centers have reduced hours or may be closed for training.
Renewing or replacing an existing license
If your Tennessee license is expired or expiring soon, you can renew it at any driver services center. You will need to bring your expired license, proof of residency, and payment. You do not have to retake the written or vision test unless your license has been expired for more than two years.
If your license is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can get a replacement at a driver services center. Bring your proof of identity and residency, and pay the replacement fee. A replacement license costs the same as a new license and is valid for the remainder of your current license period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test online from home?
No. You must take the written test and vision test in person at a driver services center. However, you can study for the written test online using the Tennessee Driver's Handbook and practice tests before you go.
What if I fail the written test?
You can retake it the same day if you fail, up to three times in one day. After that, you must wait one day before trying again. There is no extra fee for retakes.
Do I need a driver education course to get my first license as an adult?
No. Driver education is required only for applicants under 18 in the Graduated Driver License program. Adults explore for their first license need only pass the written and vision tests.
How long is my Tennessee license valid?
A standard Tennessee driver's license is valid for eight years from the date you receive it. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail before it expires.
Can I renew my license by mail or online?
Tennessee does not offer online or mail renewal. You must renew in person at a driver services center, though you can check wait times and schedule an appointment on the Department of Safety website before you go.