The fastest way to renew in Tennessee
You can renew your Tennessee driver's license online through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services office. Online renewal is the quickest option — you can complete it in minutes from home, and your new license arrives in about 7 to 10 business days. You're may be able to access for online renewal if your license is not expired by more than one year, you have no medical restrictions, and your address hasn't changed.
If you can't renew online, the mail-in process takes about two to three weeks, and in-person renewal at a Driver Services office is when ready — you walk out with a temporary license the same day and receive your permanent one by mail within two weeks.
Key Takeaways
- Online renewal through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website is available if your license expired less than one year ago and you have no medical restrictions.
- You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid payment method to renew online.
- Mail-in renewal requires you to send your current license, a completed Form DL 43, and a check or money order to the address provided by the department.
- In-person renewal at any Driver Services office takes about 30 minutes and costs between $27 and $32 depending on your license type and validity period.
- Your new license will be valid for four, five, or eight years depending on your age and the type of license you hold.
Online renewal: what you need and how to start
To renew online, go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and select the online renewal option. You'll need your current driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and your date of birth. The system will verify your identity and pull up your current license information.
You'll be asked to confirm or update your address. If your address has changed, you cannot use online renewal — you must renew by mail or in person instead. Once you've confirmed your information, you'll pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card. The fee varies based on your age and how long you want your license to be valid: a four-year license costs less than an eight-year license.
After you submit your payment, you'll receive a confirmation number. Your new license will be mailed to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your confirmation number as proof that you've renewed if you're stopped by law enforcement before your new license arrives.
Mail-in renewal: forms and what to send
To renew by mail, you'll need Form DL 43, which you can read from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website or request by phone. Fill out the form completely, including your current license number, address, and any changes to your medical information or restrictions.
Mail your completed form, your current driver's license, and a check or money order for the renewal fee to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a return envelope with postage if you want your old license returned to you. Mail processing takes about two to three weeks, and your new license will arrive by mail at the address you provided.
Keep a copy of your completed form and the confirmation number or receipt for your records. If your license expires before your new one arrives, you can print your confirmation as temporary proof of renewal.
In-person renewal at a Driver Services office
You can renew in person at any Tennessee Driver Services office. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (your Social Security card, W-2, or 1099 form), and proof of your current address (a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). If your address on your license is current, you may not need address proof.
The office will take a new photo, verify your information, and process your renewal on the spot. You'll pay the renewal fee and receive a temporary license to use when ready. Your permanent license will be mailed to you within two weeks. Most offices are open Monday through Friday during business hours, and some offer extended hours or Saturday appointments. Check the department's website to find the office nearest you and see current wait times.
Renewal fees and license validity periods
Tennessee driver's license renewal fees depend on your age and how long you want your license to be valid. A four-year license costs less than an eight-year license. Drivers under 21 can renew for four years only. Drivers 21 and older can choose between a four-year, five-year, or eight-year license at different price points.
The renewal fee typically ranges from $27 to $32, but the exact amount varies based on your choices. You can pay by credit card (online), debit card (online), or check or money order (by mail). In-person renewals accept cash, check, debit card, and credit card. The fee is non-refundable once you've submitted your renewal.
What happens if your license has been expired for more than a year
If your Tennessee driver's license expired more than one year ago, you cannot use online renewal. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office or by mail. In-person renewal is faster — you'll receive a temporary license when ready and your permanent license within two weeks.
When you renew after a long expiration, you may be required to pass a vision test or provide updated medical information if you have any restrictions on your license. Bring all the documents listed in the in-person renewal section above. If you have any questions about your specific situation, call the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security before you visit an office.
Address changes and other updates during renewal
If your address has changed, you cannot renew online. You must renew by mail or in person. When you renew in person, bring proof of your new address — a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within 60 days. The office will update your address and issue your new license with the correct information.
If you're renewing by mail and your address has changed, write your new address clearly on Form DL 43 and mail it along with your current license and payment. Your new license will be sent to the new address you provide. If you need to change your name, add or remove medical restrictions, or update other information beyond your address, you may need to visit an office in person or contact the department for guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I renew my Tennessee license if it's been expired for two years?
No, online renewal is not available. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office or by mail. In-person renewal is faster and you'll receive a temporary license the same day. Bring your expired license, proof of your Social Security number, and proof of your current address.
What if I moved and my address on my license is wrong?
You cannot renew online if your address has changed. Renew in person at a Driver Services office and bring proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement from the last 60 days). The office will update your address and issue your new license with the correct information.
How long does it take to get my new license after I renew online?
Your new license will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. You can use your confirmation number as proof of renewal if you're stopped by law enforcement before your new license arrives. If you need your license sooner, renew in person at a Driver Services office instead.
Can I renew my license if I have a medical restriction?
No, you cannot renew online if you have any medical restrictions on your license. You must renew in person at a Driver Services office or by mail. The office or mail processing will review your medical information and determine whether your restrictions remain the same or need to be updated.
What payment methods does Tennessee accept for license renewal?
Online renewal accepts credit and debit cards. Mail-in renewal accepts checks and money orders only — do not send cash. In-person renewal at a Driver Services office accepts cash, check, debit card, and credit card.