What you need to get a new Tennessee license

To get a new Tennessee driver's license, you'll visit a Driver Services Center in person with proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number. Tennessee issues licenses valid for five or eight years depending on your age. You cannot renew by mail or online — every new license requires an in-person visit, a vision test, and a new photo.

The process takes about 30 minutes at the counter. You'll pay a fee that varies by license type and validity period. If you're replacing a lost or damaged license, the process is the same as getting a new one, though you may need to report the loss to the Tennessee Highway Patrol if your license was stolen.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver Services Center in person with a valid ID document, proof you live in Tennessee, and your Social Security number.
  • Tennessee requires a vision test and new photograph for every new license, so you cannot complete this by mail or online.
  • Driver's licenses are valid for five years if you're under 65, or eight years if you're 65 or older.
  • You'll pay a fee at the time of issue; the amount depends on the type of license and how long it's valid.

Documents you must bring to the Driver Services Center

Bring one document that proves your identity. Tennessee accepts a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or a previous Tennessee driver's license or ID card. If you don't have any of these, you can use a certified birth certificate plus a second form of ID like a Social Security card, school ID, or employee badge.

You also need proof that you live in Tennessee. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement with your current address works. The document must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A phone bill, insurance policy, or government mail also counts.

Bring your Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number. If you don't have your card, a W-2 form, tax return, or Social Security statement will work. You'll also need to know your Tennessee address and have your signature ready.

Where to go and what to expect

Find your nearest Driver Services Center on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. Most centers are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, though some have extended hours. A few locations offer Saturday service — check ahead if weekday visits don't work for you.

Arrive early if possible. Wait times vary by location and time of day, but 30 minutes to an hour is typical. You'll check in, have your vision screened, sit for a new photograph, and sign your license process. The staff will verify your documents and process your payment before you leave.

You'll receive your temporary license on paper at the counter. Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Use the temporary license for driving until the permanent one arrives.

License types and validity periods

Tennessee issues several license types. A standard Class D license is for regular passenger vehicles. A Class M license is for motorcycles. A commercial driver's license (CDL) is for trucks and buses and requires additional testing. Most people need a Class D.

Standard licenses are valid for five years if you're under 65. If you're 65 or older, your license is valid for eight years. Licenses expire on your birthday in the year they're due to renew. You can check your expiration date on the front of your current license.

Fees and payment methods

A five-year Class D license costs $28.50. An eight-year license for drivers 65 and older costs $45.50. A motorcycle endorsement adds $10. The Driver Services Center accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Some locations may have ATMs on-site if you need cash.

If you're replacing a lost, stolen, or damaged license, you pay the same fee as a new license. There is no separate replacement fee. If your license was stolen, you can report it to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, though this is not required to get a new one.

If you have a name change or address change

If your name has changed since your last license — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring documentation of the change. A marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order works. You'll need this along with your other documents when you visit.

If you've moved within Tennessee, your new address goes on your new license automatically. You don't need to update your address separately. Just bring proof of your current address to the Driver Services Center.

What happens if you fail the vision test

If you fail the vision screening at the Driver Services Center, you cannot get your license that day. You'll need to see an eye doctor, get a vision correction statement, and return to the center with that paperwork. The statement must confirm that your vision meets Tennessee's standards with or without correction.

Tennessee requires vision of at least 20/40 in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts. If you wear corrective lenses, your license will have a restriction code noting that you must wear them while driving. Bring your glasses or contacts to your appointment if you use them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew my Tennessee license online or by mail?

No. Tennessee requires all new licenses to be issued in person at a Driver Services Center. You must pass a vision test and have a new photograph taken. There is no online or mail option for any type of new license.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

You must provide a Social Security number to get a Tennessee driver's license. If you don't have one, contact the Social Security Administration to explore for a number before visiting the Driver Services Center. Bring your process receipt if you've applied but haven't received your number yet.

How long does it take to get my permanent license after my visit?

Your permanent plastic license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Use your temporary paper license for driving during this time. If your license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the Driver Services Center where you applied.

Do I need an appointment to visit a Driver Services Center?

Most Driver Services Centers operate on a first-come, first-served basis and do not require appointments. However, some locations may offer appointment slots during busy times. Check the Tennessee Department of Safety website for your local center's policy before you go.

What if my license was suspended or revoked?

You cannot get a new license while your driving privilege is suspended or revoked. Contact the Tennessee Department of Safety to check your status and learn what steps you need to take to restore your privilege before explore for a new license.