Where to Get Your Driver License in Memphis
The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver License Section, issues all driver licenses in Memphis and Shelby County. You cannot get a license from a private vendor or third party — you must go to an official Driver License Office run by the state.
Memphis has multiple Driver License Offices. The main locations are on Poplar Avenue and in East Memphis, but the state also operates satellite offices in some Shelby County areas. Before you go, check the Tennessee Department of Safety website for current office addresses, hours, and whether you need to schedule an appointment. Many offices now require appointments or operate on a first-come, first-served basis with limited daily capacity.
You can also renew your license by mail if you meet specific conditions: your license must not be expired by more than one year, you must have a valid Social Security number on file, and you cannot have any medical restrictions or changes to your information. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Tennessee issues all driver licenses through official Driver License Offices; you must visit in person for your first license or if your license is expired by more than one year.
- You need proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of Tennessee residency — bring originals or certified copies, not photocopies.
- The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws and road signs; you can study the official Tennessee Driver Handbook online for free before you test.
- A standard driver license costs $27.50 and is valid for five years; the fee is the same whether you renew in person or by mail.
- If your license is suspended or revoked, you cannot renew it — you must contact the Driver License Section to learn the reason and what steps are required to restore it.
Documents You Need to Bring
Tennessee requires three categories of documents: proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency. You must bring originals or certified copies — photocopies are not accepted. If a document is in a language other than English, you must bring a certified English translation.
Proof of identity can be a valid U.S. passport, a certified birth certificate, a military ID, or a previous Tennessee driver license. A school ID, library card, or expired passport does not count. If you do not have any of these, you can bring two documents from a secondary list: a Social Security card, a W-2 form, a bank statement, or a utility bill in your name.
Proof of Social Security number is a Social Security card, a W-2 form, or a 1099 form. If you do not have a Social Security number, you must bring a letter from the Social Security Administration stating that you are not may be able to access for one.
Proof of residency must show your current Tennessee address and your name. A utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days works. A driver license from another state, a vehicle registration, or a piece of mail from a government agency also counts. A PO box address does not satisfy this requirement.
The Written Test and Vision Screening
If you are getting your first Tennessee driver license or your license has been expired for more than one year, you must pass a written test. The test has 30 questions and covers Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. You must answer at least 24 questions correctly to pass.
The test is given on a computer at the Driver License Office. You can take it in English or Spanish. Before you go, study the official Tennessee Driver Handbook, which is free and available on the Department of Safety website. The handbook covers everything on the test and is the only study material you need.
You will also have your vision screened at the office. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring them with you. If you fail the vision screening, you may be issued a license with a medical restriction requiring you to wear corrective lenses while driving. If your vision is below the legal minimum, you cannot be issued a license.
Fees and License Validity
| License Type | Cost | Valid For |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Driver License (first-time or renewal) | $27.50 | 5 years |
| Duplicate License (lost or damaged) | $15.00 | Replaces current license |
| Renewal by Mail | $27.50 | 5 years |
| Commercial Driver License (CDL) | $27.50 | 5 years |
Tennessee accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card at Driver License Offices. If you renew by mail, you must include a check or money order — cash cannot be mailed.
Your license will expire on your birthday five years after it is issued. You can renew it up to one year before the expiration date. If your license expires, you can still renew it by mail within one year of expiration. After one year, you must explore in person and retake the written test.
Renewing Your License in Person or by Mail
If your license is still valid or expired by less than one year, you can renew by mail. Request a renewal form from the Driver License Section website or call the office. Fill out the form, include a check or money order for $27.50, and mail it with a copy of your current license to the address on the form. Processing takes four to six weeks. Do not send cash through the mail.
If you prefer to renew in person, go to any Driver License Office with your current license and proof of residency. You do not need to retake the written test or vision screening if your license is still valid. The transaction takes about 15 to 30 minutes, depending on how busy the office is.
If your license has been expired for more than one year, you must renew in person and retake the written test and vision screening. Bring all three categories of documents (proof of identity, proof of Social Security number, and proof of residency) as if you were getting your first license.
What to Do If Your License Is Suspended or Revoked
A suspended or revoked license cannot be renewed. If you try to renew and the office tells you your license is suspended or revoked, you must contact the Driver License Section to find out why. Common reasons include unpaid traffic fines, failure to pay child support, medical conditions, or accumulation of traffic violations.
Once you know the reason, you must take the required action to restore your license. This might mean paying fines, completing a defensive driving course, providing a medical clearance from a doctor, or waiting out a suspension period. The Driver License Section can tell you the exact steps and timeline. You cannot renew your license until the suspension or revocation is lifted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my license online?
No. Tennessee does not offer online renewal. You can renew by mail if your license is not expired by more than one year, or you can renew in person at any Driver License Office. Mail renewal takes four to six weeks.
What if I lost my license or it was damaged?
You can get a duplicate license for $15.00 at any Driver License Office. Bring your proof of identity and proof of residency. A duplicate is issued on the spot and has the same expiration date as your original license.
Do I need an appointment to visit a Driver License Office in Memphis?
It depends on the office. Some Memphis offices require appointments; others operate first-come, first-served. Check the Tennessee Department of Safety website for your specific office location and current appointment policy before you go.
Can I take the written test in a language other than English or Spanish?
No. The test is offered only in English and Spanish. If you need an interpreter, bring someone with you to the office, but they cannot help you answer the test questions.
What happens if I fail the written test?
You can retake the test the same day or return another day. There is no extra fee to retake the test. You have as many attempts as you need, but you must pass before your license can be issued.