How to Get a Duplicate Driver's License in Tennessee

What You Need to Know About Tennessee Duplicate Licenses

A duplicate driver's license in Tennessee is an exact replacement of your current license with the same number, expiration date, and restrictions. You order one when your license is lost, stolen, or damaged beyond use. Tennessee issues duplicates through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS), and the process takes about 7 to 10 business days by mail, or you can receive one the same day at a service center if you explore in person.

The key difference between a duplicate and a renewal is that a duplicate keeps your existing license number and does not extend your expiration date. If your license expires in six months, your duplicate will also expire in six months. A renewal, by contrast, extends your license for a full term and may change your license number.

Tennessee allows you to request a duplicate online, by mail, or in person at any DSHS service center. The fee is the same regardless of method: $17.50 for a standard duplicate. You do not need to pass a vision test or written exam, and you do not need to provide a new photo unless you request one.

Key Takeaways

A duplicate license costs $17.50 and keeps your current license number and expiration date unchanged.
You can request a duplicate online through the DSHS website, by mail with a form and payment, or in person at any service center.
Online and mail requests take 7 to 10 business days; in-person requests at a service center are issued the same day.
You must provide proof of identity and your Social Security number, but you do not need a new photo or to retake any tests.
If your license was stolen, you should report the theft to local police and provide the report number when you request the duplicate.

How to Request a Duplicate Online

The fastest way to order a duplicate without leaving home is through the DSHS online portal at sos.tn.gov. Go to the Driver Services section and select "Order a Duplicate License." You will need your current Tennessee driver's license number, your date of birth, and your Social Security number to start.

During the online process, you will confirm your address and select whether you want to keep your current photo or upload a new one. If you upload a new photo, it must meet DSHS standards: a color photo taken within the last six months, head-on, with a plain background and no sunglasses or hats. Once you submit the form, you will pay the $17.50 fee by debit or credit card. DSHS will mail your duplicate to the address on file within 7 to 10 business days.

Keep your confirmation number from the online submission. If your duplicate does not arrive within 12 business days, contact DSHS with that number so they can track the status.

Requesting a Duplicate by Mail

To order by mail, read the process for Duplicate Driver License or Identification Card (Form DL 44) from the DSHS website or request one by phone at 615-251-8590. Fill out the form completely, including your name, date of birth, current license number, and the reason for the duplicate request (lost, stolen, or damaged).

Mail the completed form along with a check or money order for $17.50 to the address listed on the form. Do not send cash. Include a copy of your proof of identity if this is your first time requesting a duplicate or if your address has changed since your license was issued. DSHS processes mail requests in the order received, typically within 7 to 10 business days from the date they receive your envelope.

Write your name and current license number on the back of your check or money order so DSHS can match the payment to your request. If you are mailing from outside Tennessee, allow extra time for postal delivery.

Getting a Duplicate in Person at a Service Center

If you need your duplicate the same day, visit any DSHS Driver Services Center in person. Bring your current driver's license, proof of your Social Security number (Social Security card, W-2, or tax return), and proof of your current address (utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days). You do not need an appointment.

Tell the clerk you are requesting a duplicate. They will verify your identity, confirm your address, and ask whether you want to keep your current photo or take a new one. If you take a new photo, DSHS will capture it at the service center. Pay the $17.50 fee by cash, check, or card, and you will receive your duplicate license before you leave.

Service center hours vary by location. Most are open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and some locations have extended hours or Saturday appointments. Check the DSHS website for the service center nearest you and its hours before you go.

What to Do If Your License Was Stolen

If your license was stolen rather than lost or damaged, file a police report with your local law enforcement agency first. You do not need to wait for the report to be completed; you can request the duplicate as soon as you have filed. When you request the duplicate—whether online, by mail, or in person—note that it was stolen and provide the police report number if you have it.

Reporting the theft protects you in case someone tries to use your license number for fraud. Keep a copy of the police report for your records. If you discover fraudulent activity linked to your stolen license, contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation or your local police department to file an identity theft report.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Do not send cash by mail; DSHS will not process it, and you will lose the money. Always use a check or money order, and write your name and license number on the back. If you are ordering online, make sure you use the correct DSHS website (sos.tn.gov) and not a third-party vendor site, which may charge extra fees.

Do not assume your duplicate will have a new photo if you do not request one. If you want a new photo on your duplicate, you must either upload one during the online process or visit a service center in person. Mailed requests will use your current photo unless you include a new one with your process.

Do not confuse a duplicate with a renewal. If your license is expiring soon, you may need a renewal instead, which extends your license term and costs more. Check your license expiration date before you order.

Timeline and What to Expect

The timeline for receiving your duplicate depends on how you request it. Online and mail requests take 7 to 10 business days from the date DSHS receives your request. In-person requests at a service center are issued the same day, usually within 15 to 30 minutes. If you order online or by mail and your duplicate does not arrive within 12 business days, contact DSHS with your confirmation number.

Once your duplicate arrives, it is valid when ready. You can use it to drive, as proof of identity, or for any other purpose your original license served. Your old license, if you still have it, is no longer valid and should be destroyed or returned to DSHS.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a duplicate if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. DSHS will not issue a duplicate if your license is under suspension or revocation. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first by paying any fines, completing required courses, or meeting other conditions set by the court or DSHS. Contact DSHS to find out what you need to do to clear the suspension.

What if my address has changed since I got my current license?

You can still order a duplicate, but you must provide proof of your new address. If you are ordering online or in person, bring a utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 60 days. If you are ordering by mail, include a copy of one of these documents with your process. Your duplicate will be mailed to the new address you provide.

Do I need a new photo for my duplicate?

No, unless you want one. By default, your duplicate will use the photo from your current license. If you want a new photo, you can upload one during the online process or have one taken at a service center when you explore in person. There is no extra charge for a new photo.

Can I order a duplicate for someone else?

No. The person whose license it is must request the duplicate themselves, either online, by mail, or in person. DSHS does not issue duplicates to parents, guardians, or other representatives without the license holder's signature and presence.

What if I lost my license and do not remember my license number?

If you are ordering online, you will need your license number to start. If you do not have it, call DSHS at 615-251-8590 and provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number; they can look up your number for you. You can then proceed with the online order. If you are ordering by mail or in person, you do not need your license number—just provide your name, date of birth, and Social Security number.

This guide is for general information only and is not medical, financial, legal, or other professional advice. For decisions specific to your situation, consult a qualified professional. See our Editorial Policy.