Where to Get Your Driver License in Memphis
In Memphis, you get your driver license through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver License Section. The state runs all driver license services — there is no separate Memphis office. You will visit one of Tennessee's regional driver license facilities, and the closest one to Memphis is the Memphis Driver License Office, located at 1150 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38105.
This office handles new licenses, renewals, replacements, and road tests. You cannot get a Tennessee driver license online or by mail for a first-time issuance — you must appear in person. The office is open Monday through Friday, and hours vary by day, so check the Tennessee DMV website or call ahead before you go.
Walk-in service is available, but wait times can be long, especially mid-morning and mid-afternoon. Many people schedule an appointment online through the Tennessee DMV website to reduce wait time. Appointments are free and can cut your visit from two hours to thirty minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The Memphis Driver License Office at 1150 Poplar Avenue is where you go for all driver license services in the Memphis area.
- You must appear in person for a first-time license — online or mail-in options are not available for new drivers.
- Scheduling a free appointment online through the Tennessee DMV website will reduce your wait time significantly.
- You will need to pass a written test, vision screening, and road test before you receive your full driver license.
- Bring your Social Security number, proof of residency, proof of identity, and proof of lawful presence — missing documents will delay your visit.
Documents You Need to Bring
Tennessee requires specific documents before you can get a driver license. Bring your Social Security number (or a Social Security card), a proof of identity (passport, birth certificate, or military ID), proof of residency (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days), and proof of lawful presence (passport, birth certificate, or visa).
If you are under 18, you will also need a completed Parental Consent Form (Form DL 44) signed by a parent or guardian. The parent or guardian does not have to be present, but the form must be notarized or signed in front of a driver license examiner.
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the name change. Bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If you do not have all required documents, the office will turn you away and you will have to return another day.
The Written Test and Vision Screening
Before you take the road test, you must pass a written knowledge test and a vision screening. The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. It has 30 questions, and you must answer at least 24 correctly to pass (80 percent).
You can study for the written test using the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Tennessee DMV website. Many people also use practice tests online to prepare. The test is given on a computer at the driver license office, and you get your results when ready.
The vision screening checks whether you can see well enough to drive safely. You will read letters and numbers on a chart from a set distance. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you cannot take the road test that day and will have to return after seeing an eye doctor.
Scheduling and Taking Your Road Test
After you pass the written test and vision screening, you can schedule your road test — or take it the same day if an examiner is available. The road test lasts about 20 to 30 minutes. You will drive on city streets and possibly highways, and the examiner will watch how you handle turns, stops, parking, and traffic.
You must bring a vehicle that is registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The vehicle must have working headlights, brake lights, turn signals, wipers, and mirrors. If the vehicle fails inspection, you cannot take the test. Many people use a family member's car or a driving school vehicle.
If you fail the road test, you can retake it, but you will have to pay the road test fee again and schedule another appointment. Most people pass on the second or third attempt. If you pass, you will receive a temporary license on the spot and your permanent license will arrive by mail within two weeks.
License Types and Restrictions for New Drivers
Tennessee offers several license types depending on your age and driving history. A Class D license is the standard passenger vehicle license for drivers 18 and older. If you are 16 or 17, you will receive a Restricted License with limitations on when and where you can drive.
A Restricted License for drivers under 18 means you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m., and you cannot carry passengers under 21 unless a parent or guardian is in the car. These restrictions lift when you turn 18 or after you have held the license for one year, whichever comes first.
If you are 18 or older and getting your first license, you will receive an unrestricted Class D license. You can drive a passenger vehicle anywhere, anytime. If you want to drive a motorcycle, you will need to pass a separate motorcycle test and pay an additional fee to add a motorcycle endorsement.
Fees and Payment Methods
Driver license fees in Tennessee vary depending on the type of license and how long it is valid. A Class D license for an adult costs a set amount and is valid for eight years. A Restricted License for a driver under 18 costs less and is valid for a shorter period. The Memphis Driver License Office accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
If you need a replacement license (lost, stolen, or damaged), the fee is lower than a new license. If you need a duplicate license (an extra copy of your current license), the fee is also lower. Ask the examiner which fee applies to your situation before you pay.
Some services, like scheduling an appointment or renewing online, may have additional fees or may be free depending on the service. Check the Tennessee DMV website for current fee amounts, as they can change.
What Happens After You Pass
When you pass your road test, the examiner will issue you a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days. This temporary license lets you drive legally while you wait for your permanent license to arrive by mail. Do not lose it — if you do, you will have to return to the office and pay for a replacement.
Your permanent plastic license will arrive at the address you provided on your process, usually within two weeks. If it does not arrive within three weeks, contact the Memphis Driver License Office to check the status. Once your permanent license arrives, the temporary license is no longer valid.
Keep your license with you whenever you drive. If you are stopped by police and do not have your license, you can face a fine. If your address changes, you can update it online through the Tennessee DMV website or in person at the driver license office.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the road test the same day as my written test?
Yes, if an examiner is available and you pass the written test and vision screening. However, wait times may be long, and you might be scheduled for another day. Scheduling an appointment in advance increases the chance that both tests can happen on the same day.
What if I fail the road test?
You can retake it, but you will have to pay the road test fee again and schedule a new appointment. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the test. Most people pass within two or three attempts. You can practice with a licensed driver between attempts.
Do I need a learner permit before I get my full license?
No. Tennessee does not require a learner permit for adults 18 and older. If you are under 18, you may want to get a learner permit first to practice driving with a licensed adult, but it is not required to go straight to the road test.
What if I move out of Memphis but keep my Tennessee license?
You can update your address online through the Tennessee DMV website or at any driver license office in the state. You do not have to return to Memphis to update your address. Your license remains valid as long as you update your address within 30 days of moving.
How long does a Tennessee driver license last?
A Class D license for an adult is valid for eight years. A Restricted License for a driver under 18 is valid for a shorter period and converts to an unrestricted license when you turn 18 or after one year, whichever comes first. You will receive a renewal notice by mail before your license expires.