Where to go and what to bring for a Memphis driver's license

In Memphis, you get your driver's license through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's Driver Services division. The main office is located at 1150 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38105. You can also visit any of the satellite offices in Shelby County if the main location is inconvenient.

Before you go, gather these documents: a valid passport, birth certificate, or state ID (one form of proof of identity); proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2; and two documents showing your current address, such as a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. If you're renewing and your name has changed, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the legal change.

You'll also need to pass a vision test at the office, so bring any glasses or contacts you wear while driving. The vision requirement is 20/40 in each eye, corrected if necessary. If you fail the vision test, you cannot receive your license that day.

Key Takeaways

  • The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security issues Memphis driver's licenses at the main office on Poplar Avenue or at satellite locations throughout Shelby County.
  • You need proof of identity, proof of your Social Security number, and two documents showing your current address, all brought to your appointment.
  • Written knowledge tests cover road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices; you must score at least 80 percent to pass.
  • Road tests are scheduled separately after you pass the written test, and you must bring a vehicle registered in Tennessee with valid insurance.
  • Processing times vary by location and time of year, but expect to wait several weeks for your physical license to arrive by mail after you pass all tests.

The written knowledge test and what it covers

After you submit your documents, you'll take a written test on a computer at the office. The test has 30 questions covering Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You need to score at least 80 percent, which means you can miss no more than 6 questions. The test is offered in English and Spanish.

Study materials are free on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. You can read the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which contains all the information tested. Many people also use the online practice tests available through the same website to get familiar with the question format before test day.

If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or schedule another appointment. There is no waiting period between attempts in Tennessee, though you may have to pay the test fee again depending on the office's policy.

Scheduling and taking your road test

Once you pass the written test, you schedule your road test separately. The road test typically happens within one to four weeks, depending on how busy the testing location is. You must bring a vehicle that is registered in Tennessee, has valid liability insurance, and passes a safety inspection (working lights, brakes, wipers, and mirrors).

The examiner will ask you to perform basic driving tasks: starting the vehicle, backing up, turning, parking, and responding to traffic signals and signs. The test lasts about 15 to 20 minutes. You must follow all traffic laws during the test, including speed limits and stop signs. Minor mistakes like hesitating at a turn or slightly wide parking are usually forgiven; major mistakes like running a red light or hitting a curb result in failure.

If you fail the road test, you can retake it after waiting a few days. The exact waiting period depends on the testing office, so ask when you schedule your retest.

Fees and what you'll pay

A Tennessee driver's license costs $28.50 for an eight-year license (standard for adults under 65). If you're 65 or older, the license costs $19 and is valid for five years. These fees cover the written test, road test, and the physical license card.

Payment is cash or card at the office. If you need to replace a lost or damaged license, the replacement fee is $17.50. If you're renewing early because your name changed, you pay the full license fee, not a renewal fee.

Some satellite offices may have slightly different hours or services, so call ahead if you're planning to visit one. The main Poplar Avenue office accepts walk-ins, but wait times are often shorter if you schedule an appointment online through the Tennessee Department of Safety website.

How long it takes to get your physical license

After you pass both the written and road tests, the office issues you a temporary paper license valid for 45 days. Your physical plastic license card is mailed to the address you provided on your process. Standard mail delivery takes two to four weeks, though during busy periods it can take longer.

You can drive legally on the temporary license while you wait for the card. If your card doesn't arrive within six weeks, contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to check the status. Replacement cards are mailed from a central facility, not from the local office, so the office staff cannot speed up delivery.

Renewing your Memphis license before it expires

Tennessee driver's licenses are valid for eight years (five years if you're 65 or older). You can renew your license up to one year before it expires. Renewal by mail is available if your license is not suspended, you haven't had any violations in the past three years, and you don't need to update your photo.

To renew by mail, you'll receive a renewal notice about 90 days before your license expires. Follow the instructions on the notice to mail in your process and fee. The renewed license takes two to four weeks to arrive.

If you need a new photo, have had violations, or prefer to renew in person, you can visit the office and follow the same process as a new license, though you won't need to retake the written or road tests. The renewal fee is the same as a new license fee.

What to do if you fail the tests or need to reschedule

If you fail the written test, you can retake it when ready or schedule another appointment. There's no penalty for retaking the test beyond paying the fee again, which varies by office. Most people pass on their second or third attempt after studying the handbook more thoroughly.

If you fail the road test, you must wait a few days before retesting. The exact waiting period depends on your testing location. You'll need to bring the same vehicle and documents when you return. Many people fail because they're nervous or unfamiliar with the specific route the examiner uses, so taking a practice drive in the testing area beforehand can help.

If you need to reschedule an appointment, call the office or use the online scheduling system on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Cancellations usually free up slots within a few days, especially at satellite locations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a Memphis driver's license if I don't have a Social Security number?

No. Tennessee requires proof of your Social Security number to issue a driver's license. If you don't have a number, you'll need to obtain one from the Social Security Administration before you can get a license. Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your number, such as a W-2 or tax return.

What if I lost my documents and can't find my birth certificate?

You can order a replacement birth certificate from the Tennessee Department of Health, Vital Records office. The process takes one to two weeks by mail. In the meantime, you can use a passport or state ID as proof of identity instead. Contact the office on Poplar Avenue to confirm which documents they'll accept before you order replacements.

Do I need an appointment or can I just walk in?

The main office on Poplar Avenue accepts walk-ins, but wait times are often two to four hours during peak times. Scheduling an appointment online through the Tennessee Department of Safety website is faster and usually gets you in within a few days. Satellite offices may have different policies, so call ahead.

What happens if I move out of Memphis after I get my license?

Your Tennessee license remains valid for the full eight years, even if you move to another state. If you move to another state and want a license there, you'll need to follow that state's process. You don't need to do anything with your Tennessee license unless it expires or you want to update your address.

Can I renew my license online instead of going to the office?

You can renew by mail if your license is not suspended and you don't need a new photo. You'll receive a renewal notice 90 days before expiration with instructions. If you need a new photo or have had violations, you must renew in person at the office.