Report the loss and request a replacement through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security

When you lose your Tennessee driver's license, you have two main routes: report it in person at a Driver Services office, or report it online through the TDOSHS website if you want to start the process from home. The in-person route is faster — you can walk out with a replacement the same day in most cases. The online route lets you report the loss and request a replacement without leaving your house, though you will still need to visit an office to pick up your new license or have it mailed to you.

You do not need to file a police report for a lost license unless you suspect identity theft. A straightforward loss report to TDOSHS is enough. If you lost your license in Tennessee, call the Driver Services office in your county or visit the TDOSHS website to start a replacement. If you lost it out of state, you can still report it online or call the Nashville office at 615-251-8590.

Key Takeaways

  • You can report a lost Tennessee license in person at any Driver Services office or online through the TDOSHS website.
  • In-person replacement usually takes one day; mailed replacement takes 7 to 10 business days after you visit an office to submit your process.
  • You will need to pay a replacement fee (currently $27 for a standard license) and bring proof of identity and Tennessee residency.
  • If you suspect your lost license was used for fraud, contact TDOSHS and consider placing a fraud alert with the three credit bureaus.
  • You can drive legally while your replacement is being processed if you have a receipt or confirmation number from your report.

What documents you need to bring to the Driver Services office

Bring one form of government-issued photo ID (such as a passport, military ID, or out-of-state license) and one document showing your current Tennessee address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or bank statement dated within the last 60 days will work for the address proof. If your name has changed since your last license, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order showing the change.

You do not need to bring the lost license itself — you are reporting it missing, so you will not have it. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must be present, and they will need to bring their own ID and proof of residency.

In-person replacement at a Driver Services office

Find your county's Driver Services office on the TDOSHS website or call 615-251-8590 for the location and hours nearest you. Walk in during business hours with your documents and the replacement fee ($27 for a standard license, higher for REAL ID or commercial licenses). The office will take a new photo, process your process, and issue your replacement license on the spot in most cases.

Wait times vary by location and time of day. Early morning or mid-week visits are usually faster than afternoons or Fridays. Some offices accept walk-ins only; others take appointments. Check the TDOSHS website for your specific office's policy before you go.

Mailed replacement if you cannot visit an office

If you cannot reach a Driver Services office, you can report your loss online at the TDOSHS website and request that your replacement be mailed to you. You will still need to visit an office at least once to have your photo taken and sign your process in person — TDOSHS does not issue licenses by mail without an in-person visit. After your office visit, your license will be mailed within 7 to 10 business days.

Some offices offer a "mail-in photo" option where you submit a digital photo online, but this is not available at all locations. Call ahead to ask whether your county office offers this service.

Driving legally while your replacement is being processed

You can drive legally while waiting for your replacement as long as you have a receipt or confirmation number from your loss report. Keep this document with you in your vehicle. If a police officer stops you, show them the receipt and explain that your license was lost and you have reported it. Most officers will accept this as proof that you have a valid license on file.

This protection is temporary and applies only while your replacement is in process. Once your new license arrives, the receipt is no longer valid for driving.

If you suspect fraud or identity theft

If you believe your lost license was used to open accounts, make purchases, or commit fraud in your name, contact TDOSHS when ready and ask them to flag your file. Then contact the three major credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion — and place a fraud alert on your credit report. A fraud alert tells lenders to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name.

You can also place a credit freeze, which blocks access to your credit report entirely until you unfreeze it. This is stronger protection than a fraud alert but takes longer to set up. The Federal Trade Commission's website (ftc.gov) has step-by-step instructions for both options.

Replacing a license lost out of state

If you lost your Tennessee license while traveling or living temporarily out of state, you have two options. You can request a replacement by mail through the TDOSHS website, though you will eventually need to visit a Tennessee Driver Services office in person to have your photo taken. Alternatively, you can wait until you return to Tennessee and replace it in person at any county office.

If you need to drive before you can return to Tennessee, contact your current state's DMV about getting a temporary license or permit. Most states will issue a temporary document if you show proof that your home state license is valid and you have reported it lost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a temporary license while I wait for my replacement?

Tennessee does not issue temporary paper licenses. Your receipt or confirmation number from your loss report is your proof of a valid license while your replacement is being processed. Keep it with you when you drive.

What if I find my lost license after I have already reported it?

Contact TDOSHS and let them know you found it. If you have already received a replacement, the old license is no longer valid and should be destroyed. You can keep driving with your new license.

How much does it cost to replace a lost license?

The replacement fee is $27 for a standard driver's license. REAL ID licenses cost more. Fees may change, so confirm the current amount with your Driver Services office or the TDOSHS website before you visit.

Do I need a new license number when I replace a lost license?

No. Your replacement license will have the same number as your lost license. Your driving record and license status remain unchanged.

What if my address has changed since I lost my license?

You can update your address at the same time you replace your license. Bring proof of your new Tennessee address and let the office know you want to update it. There is no extra fee for an address change during a replacement.