Getting a replacement license in Tennessee

If you've lost your Tennessee driver's license, you can get a replacement through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS). You'll need to visit a Driver Services office in person, bring proof of identity and residency, and pay a replacement fee. The process takes about 30 minutes, and you'll receive a temporary paper license on the spot while your permanent card is mailed to you.

Tennessee does not issue replacement licenses by mail or online, so an in-person visit is required. You can find your nearest Driver Services office on the DSHS website and check their hours before you go. Some offices accept walk-ins, while others operate by appointment only — calling ahead saves a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • You must visit a Driver Services office in person with proof of identity and Tennessee residency to get a replacement license.
  • The replacement fee is $27 for a standard driver's license, and you'll receive a temporary paper license when ready.
  • Your permanent license card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days in most cases.
  • Some Driver Services offices require an appointment, so check the DSHS website or call ahead before visiting.
  • If your license was lost in another state, you may need to contact that state's licensing authority first to report it.

Documents you need to bring

Tennessee requires two forms of identification to replace a lost license. One must be a primary ID document — a passport, birth certificate, Social Security card, or military ID. The second can be a secondary document such as a school ID, work badge, or insurance card. Both documents must show your current name or explain any name changes through marriage or court order.

You also need proof that you live in Tennessee. Acceptable documents include a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days. The address on your proof of residency should match the address you want on your new license. If you've recently moved, bring a document showing your new address.

Bring your Social Security number or card as well. The DSHS uses this to verify your identity and check for any outstanding tickets or holds on your driving record.

The replacement fee and what you receive

A replacement driver's license costs $27 in Tennessee. This fee covers the new card and is paid at the Driver Services office when you submit your process. Payment methods vary by location — most offices accept cash, debit, and credit cards, but calling ahead confirms what your local office takes.

You'll receive a temporary paper license when ready after your visit. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving and identification purposes while you wait for your permanent card. Your permanent license arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days under normal circumstances, though delays can occur during high-volume periods.

Finding a Driver Services office near you

Tennessee operates Driver Services offices in most counties. The DSHS website has a location finder that shows office addresses, phone numbers, and hours. Some offices are open Monday through Friday during standard business hours, while others have extended evening or Saturday hours. A few locations operate by appointment only, particularly in smaller towns.

Call your local office before visiting to confirm whether they accept walk-ins or require an appointment. If your nearest office has a long wait, you can visit a different location — any Driver Services office in Tennessee can process your replacement. Some people find that visiting an office in a neighboring county during off-peak hours (mid-morning on a Tuesday or Wednesday) results in shorter waits.

If your license was lost out of state

If you lost your Tennessee license while traveling or living temporarily outside the state, you can still replace it through a Tennessee Driver Services office. You do not need to report the loss to the state where you lost it unless you're concerned about identity theft. straightforward visit any Driver Services office in Tennessee with your required documents and pay the replacement fee.

If you lost your license in another state and are now back in Tennessee, follow the standard replacement process. If you're still out of state and need your license urgently, contact the DSHS by phone to ask whether any exceptions exist for mail-in replacement — the answer is typically no, but it's worth confirming your specific situation.

Checking for holds or suspensions before you go

Before visiting a Driver Services office, you can check your driving record online through the DSHS website. This shows whether your license is suspended, revoked, or has any holds that might prevent replacement. If a hold exists — for example, due to unpaid tickets or child support — you'll need to resolve that issue before the office can issue a new license.

If you discover a hold, contact the agency responsible (the court, the Department of Revenue, or the Department of Human Services, depending on the type of hold) to find out what's required to clear it. Bringing documentation of payment or a resolution letter to your Driver Services appointment can speed up the process.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my license if I have unpaid traffic tickets?

No. If you have unpaid tickets or fines, your license will be suspended and the Driver Services office cannot issue a replacement until the suspension is lifted. Contact the court that issued the ticket to pay the fine or set up a payment plan, then return to replace your license.

What if I don't have a birth certificate or passport?

You can use other primary ID documents such as a military ID, Social Security card, or tribal ID. If you don't have any of these, contact the DSHS to ask what alternatives they accept. You may need to obtain a birth certificate from the Tennessee Department of Health or your state of birth first.

How long does the temporary paper license last?

Your temporary paper license is valid for 30 days. Your permanent card should arrive within 7 to 10 business days, so you'll have it before the temporary expires. If your permanent license doesn't arrive within two weeks, contact the DSHS to check the status.

Can I replace my license online or by mail?

No. Tennessee requires an in-person visit to a Driver Services office to replace a lost license. You cannot complete this process online, by mail, or through a third-party service.

What if my name has changed since I got my current license?

Bring documentation of the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Driver Services office will update your name on your new license at no additional cost.