Tennessee Driver's License Fees by License Type

Tennessee charges different fees depending on the type of license you need and how long you want it to last. A regular driver's license costs $27.50 for an eight-year license, or $16.50 for a four-year license. If you need a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee is $50 for eight years or $30 for four years. A motorcycle endorsement adds $10 to your license fee, regardless of which license type you hold.

Tennessee also issues Real ID-compliant licenses, which cost the same as standard licenses but meet federal requirements for air travel and federal building access. You do not pay extra for Real ID compliance — the fee is identical to a regular license of the same duration.

If you are renewing rather than getting a new license, the renewal fee is the same as the original license fee for that category. There is no discount for renewal, and the fee does not change based on how much time remains on your current license.

Key Takeaways

  • A standard Tennessee driver's license costs $27.50 for eight years or $16.50 for four years.
  • Commercial driver's licenses cost $50 for eight years or $30 for four years.
  • Motorcycle endorsements add $10 to any license type and are not available separately.
  • Real ID-compliant licenses cost the same as standard licenses and do not require a separate fee.
  • Renewal fees are identical to original license fees — there is no reduced rate for renewing an existing license.

How to Pay Your Tennessee Driver's License Fee

You pay your license fee at the time you visit a Tennessee Driver Services office to take your test or renew your license. The office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card. You cannot pay online in advance; payment happens in person at the counter.

If you are renewing by mail (available only for certain renewals), you will receive instructions with your renewal notice about how to submit payment. Mail renewals require a check or money order — credit and debit cards are not accepted by mail.

Some counties operate satellite Driver Services offices with limited hours. Call ahead to confirm that your local office accepts the payment method you plan to use, since a few smaller locations may have restrictions.

When Your Fee Increases or Changes

Tennessee's license fees do not change based on your age, driving record, or how many violations you have. The fee structure is set by state law and applies equally to all drivers in the same license category.

However, if you need to replace a lost, stolen, or damaged license before your renewal date, Tennessee charges a replacement fee of $10. This is separate from and in addition to your regular license fee if you are also renewing at the same time.

If you change your license type — for example, upgrading from a regular license to a commercial license — you pay the full fee for the new license type. Tennessee does not prorate fees or give credit for unused time on your current license.

Real ID Compliance and Additional Costs

Tennessee's Real ID-compliant licenses meet federal requirements set by the Department of Homeland Security. These licenses cost exactly the same as standard licenses: $27.50 for eight years or $16.50 for four years.

To get a Real ID license, you must bring additional documents to prove your identity and residency — typically a passport or birth certificate, plus a utility bill or lease. Bringing the wrong documents will not cost you extra, but it will delay your license issuance and require a return visit.

If you do not want a Real ID license, Tennessee still issues standard driver's licenses at the same price. The choice is yours, and there is no fee penalty for choosing either option.

Duplicate and Replacement License Fees

A duplicate license — an exact copy of your current license with the same expiration date — costs $10 and can be ordered at any Driver Services office. You receive it by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

A replacement license — issued when your license is lost, stolen, or damaged — also costs $10. The replacement carries a new expiration date that is eight or four years from the date you request it, depending on which term you choose.

If you order a duplicate and then lose your original license, you do not pay the $10 replacement fee again. The duplicate becomes your valid license automatically.

Endorsement and Restriction Fees

Adding a motorcycle endorsement to any license costs $10. This is a one-time fee added to your license fee at the time of issuance or renewal.

Tennessee does not charge separate fees for other endorsements such as hazmat (required for commercial drivers) or passenger endorsements. These are added to your CDL at no extra cost beyond the CDL fee itself.

Restrictions — such as corrective lenses required, automatic transmission only, or daylight driving only — are also added at no additional charge. The restriction is printed on your license but does not increase the fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to pay the full license fee if I renew early?

Yes. Tennessee charges the full renewal fee regardless of how much time remains on your current license. There is no prorated or reduced fee for early renewal. You can renew up to 90 days before your license expires.

What if I cannot pay the fee at the Driver Services office?

You must pay at the time of service. Tennessee does not offer payment plans or the option to pay later. If you cannot pay on the day of your visit, you will need to reschedule and return when you have the full fee amount.

Is there a fee to change my address on my license?

No. Address changes are free and can be done by mail, online through the Tennessee Driver Services website, or in person at a Driver Services office. You do not pay anything unless you also renew your license at the same time.

Do military members or seniors get a discount on license fees?

Tennessee does not offer reduced fees for military members, veterans, or seniors. All drivers pay the same fee based on license type and duration, regardless of age or military status.

What happens if I lose my license and need a replacement before my renewal date?

You pay the $10 replacement fee for a new license. When you renew that replacement license later, you pay the full renewal fee. There is no credit applied for the replacement fee you already paid.