Where to renew and what documents you need
You can renew your Tennessee driver's license in person at any Driver Services Center, by mail if you meet certain conditions, or online through the state's website. The fastest route depends on whether your license is still valid and how soon you need it.
If you renew in person, bring your current license, proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and your Social Security number. You'll also need to pass a vision test. If you're renewing by mail or online, you won't need the vision test unless your license has been expired for more than a year.
Online renewal is available only if your license is not expired, you have no medical restrictions, and you haven't changed your name or address since your last renewal. Mail renewal has similar limits — your license must not be expired by more than one year, and you cannot have any address or name changes.
Key Takeaways
- In-person renewal at a Driver Services Center takes about 30 minutes and requires your current license, proof of residency, and a vision test.
- Online renewal through the Tennessee Department of Safety website is the fastest option if your license is current and you have no address or name changes.
- Mail renewal is possible if your license expired less than one year ago, but processing takes two to three weeks.
- Your Tennessee license is valid for five years from the date of issue, and you can renew up to six months before expiration.
- The renewal fee is $27.50 for a standard five-year license, payable by cash, check, or card depending on your renewal method.
Renewing online through the Tennessee website
The Tennessee Department of Safety website lets you renew without visiting a Driver Services Center if you meet the requirements. Go to the department's online renewal portal, enter your license number and date of birth, and follow the prompts to upload a new photo or use your existing one.
You'll pay the $27.50 fee by debit or credit card during the process. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within seven to ten business days. This method works only if your current license is not expired, you have no medical conditions listed on your license, and your name and address haven't changed.
Renewing by mail
If you cannot visit a Driver Services Center and do not meet the online renewal requirements, you can mail in your renewal. Send your current license, the completed renewal form (available on the Tennessee Department of Safety website), and a check or money order for $27.50 to the address listed on the form.
Mail renewal takes two to three weeks from the date the department receives your packet. Your new license will be mailed to you after processing. This option is only available if your license expired less than one year ago and you have no address or name changes to report.
Renewing in person at a Driver Services Center
Walk-in renewals are available at any of Tennessee's Driver Services Centers during business hours. Most centers are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., though some have extended hours. You do not need an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day.
Bring your current license, proof of residency dated within 90 days, and be prepared to pass a vision test. The process usually takes 30 minutes to an hour. You'll pay $27.50 by cash, check, or card, and you'll receive your new license on the spot if you pass the vision test.
If you have medical restrictions on your current license or your license has been expired for more than a year, you must renew in person. The same applies if you need to change your name or address.
What happens if your license is expired
An expired Tennessee license cannot be used for identification or to drive legally. If your license has been expired for more than one year, you cannot renew by mail or online — you must go to a Driver Services Center in person and pass a vision test.
If your license expired less than one year ago, you can still use mail or online renewal if you meet the other requirements. However, you should not drive with an expired license. If you are stopped by law enforcement, you can be cited for driving with an expired license even if you have a renewal process pending.
Renewing with a name or address change
If your name or address has changed since your last renewal, you must renew in person at a Driver Services Center. Bring your current license, proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days), and a document showing your legal name change if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order).
You'll also need to pass a vision test. The process takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive your new license with the updated information on the spot. The fee remains $27.50.
Timeline and what to expect
Your Tennessee driver's license is valid for five years from the date it is issued. You can renew up to six months before your expiration date. The state recommends renewing at least two weeks before your license expires to avoid driving with an expired license.
If you renew online, your new license arrives in seven to ten business days. Mail renewal takes two to three weeks. In-person renewal gives you your license when ready after you pass the vision test. Plan accordingly based on when you need your license and which method you choose.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Tennessee license if I live out of state?
Yes, you can renew by mail or online if you meet the other requirements, even if you no longer live in Tennessee. However, if you have moved to another state, you should consider getting a driver's license from your new state of residence instead, as most states require you to obtain a license within a certain period after moving.
What if I lost my license or it was stolen?
A lost or stolen license cannot be renewed — you must report it and request a replacement. Go to a Driver Services Center with proof of residency and your Social Security number. You'll pay a replacement fee (different from the renewal fee) and pass a vision test. Your replacement license will be issued on the spot.
Do I need a new photo when I renew?
Online and mail renewal allow you to keep your existing photo if you choose. In-person renewal also allows you to keep your photo, but you can request a new one at no extra cost. A new photo is required if your current license photo is more than ten years old.
What if I have medical restrictions on my license?
If your license has medical restrictions listed, you must renew in person at a Driver Services Center. The department may require you to provide updated medical documentation or a doctor's clearance depending on the restriction. Contact your local Driver Services Center before you visit to find out what documents you need to bring.
Can I renew my license before it expires?
Yes, you can renew up to six months before your expiration date. Early renewal is useful if you're traveling or want to avoid the rush near your expiration date. Your new license will be valid for five years from the date it is issued, not from your old expiration date.