Tennessee driver's license renewal happens through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, and you can renew in person, by mail, or online depending on your situation and how much time you have before expiration.
Your Tennessee driver's license is valid for eight years from the date of issue. The state sends a renewal notice to your mailing address about 60 days before expiration, but you do not have to wait for that notice to start the process. You can renew up to one year before your license expires.
The method you choose depends on whether you need to update your photo, your address, or other information. If nothing has changed and you meet the requirements for online or mail renewal, those routes are faster and do not require a trip to a Driver Service Center. If you need a new photo or have had a name change, you must renew in person.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee driver's licenses are valid for eight years, and you can renew up to one year before expiration.
- Online renewal through the TDSS website is the fastest option if you have not changed your address, name, or appearance significantly since your last license.
- Mail renewal takes two to three weeks and requires mailing your current license and a completed form to the state.
- In-person renewal at a Driver Service Center is required if you need a new photo, have changed your name, or do not meet the requirements for online or mail renewal.
- You will need your Social Security number, current license number, and a valid payment method for any renewal method.
Renewing online through the TDSS website
Online renewal is the fastest route if you are renewing a standard driver's license and have not moved or changed your name. You go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website, create or log into your account, and complete the renewal process. The system will ask you to confirm your personal information, your address, and whether you want to register to vote or donate organs. You pay the renewal fee by credit or debit card.
Online renewal takes about 10 business days from approval. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file. You cannot change your address online, so if you have moved, you must either renew by mail or in person. You also cannot renew online if your license has been suspended, revoked, or expired for more than one year.
Renewing by mail
Mail renewal works if your license is not suspended or revoked and you do not need a new photo. You read and print the DL 43 form from the TDSS website or request one by calling the Driver Services toll-free line at 615-251-8590. Fill out the form, sign it, and mail it along with your current license and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form.
Processing takes two to three weeks after the state receives your envelope. Mail renewal is slower than online renewal but does not require you to visit a Driver Service Center. If you have changed your address, write your new address on the form and the state will update your record. If your license has been lost or stolen, you cannot use mail renewal; you must renew in person.
Renewing in person at a Driver Service Center
In-person renewal is required if you need a new photo, have changed your name, or do not meet the requirements for online or mail renewal. You visit a Driver Service Center with your current license, proof of your Social Security number (such as a Social Security card or tax return), and proof of your current address (such as a utility bill or lease). Bring a payment method: cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
Processing at the counter usually takes 30 to 45 minutes, depending on how busy the center is. You will have your photo taken and receive a temporary license to use while your permanent license is mailed. Your new license arrives in seven to 10 business days. Driver Service Centers are located throughout Tennessee; you can find the one nearest you and check wait times on the TDSS website.
What renewal costs and what documents you need
A standard eight-year driver's license renewal costs $27.50 in Tennessee. If you are renewing in person and need a duplicate license (because yours was lost or stolen), the cost is $7.00 for the duplicate. Payment methods vary by renewal route: online renewal accepts credit and debit cards only, mail renewal accepts checks or money orders, and in-person renewal accepts cash, check, debit card, or credit card.
For any renewal method, you will need your current license number and your Social Security number. If you are renewing in person, bring your actual license plus proof of your Social Security number and proof of your current address. If you have changed your name since your last license, bring a certified copy of the document that shows the change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The state does not accept photocopies of these documents.
Renewing a license that has expired or been suspended
If your license expired more than one year ago, you cannot renew online or by mail. You must renew in person at a Driver Service Center. Bring the same documents you would for a standard in-person renewal: your expired license, proof of Social Security number, and proof of current address. The renewal fee is still $27.50.
If your license has been suspended or revoked, you cannot renew through any method until the suspension or revocation is lifted. Contact the TDSS to find out the reason for the suspension and what steps you must take to restore your driving privileges. Suspensions are often related to unpaid traffic fines, unpaid child support, or failure to appear in court. Once the issue is resolved, you can renew in person.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes. Tennessee allows you to renew up to one year before your license expires. This is useful if you are planning a trip or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. The new license will be valid for eight years from the date you renew, not from your original expiration date.
What if I have moved since my last license?
If you renew online, you cannot change your address. You must renew by mail or in person. For mail renewal, write your new address on the DL 43 form. For in-person renewal, bring proof of your new address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew?
Online renewal takes about 10 business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal gives you a temporary license on the spot, and your permanent license arrives in seven to 10 business days. Business days do not include weekends or state holidays.
What if my name has changed?
You must renew in person. Bring your current license and a certified copy of the document showing your name change—a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The state does not accept photocopies. You will have your photo taken with your new name on the license.
Can I renew my license if it was suspended for unpaid fines?
No. You must resolve the suspension first. Contact the TDSS or the court that issued the suspension to find out what you owe and how to pay it. Once the suspension is lifted, you can renew in person at a Driver Service Center.