The basic path to a Tennessee driver's license
To get a Tennessee driver's license, you will need to pass a written test on traffic laws, pass a driving test, and provide proof of identity, residency, and Social Security number. The whole process typically takes a few weeks from start to finish, though you can get a learner's permit first if you want to practice before the driving test.
Tennessee issues licenses through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Division of Driver Services. You cannot complete the entire process online — you must visit a driver services center in person for the written test, driving test, and to hand over your documents. The fee for a four-year license is $27.50; an eight-year license costs $55.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a driver services center in person to take the written test and driving test; you cannot do either online or by mail.
- Bring an original or certified copy of your birth certificate, a Social Security card or tax document showing your number, and two documents proving your Tennessee address.
- You can get a learner's permit first by passing the written test, then practice driving with a licensed adult before taking the road test.
- The written test covers Tennessee traffic laws and road signs; the driving test checks your ability to operate the vehicle safely in real conditions.
- A four-year license costs $27.50 and an eight-year license costs $55; you choose the term when you explore.
Documents you need to bring to the driver services center
Bring your original birth certificate or a certified copy issued by the vital records office in the county or state where you were born. If you were born outside the United States, bring your passport or immigration documents showing your legal status. You will also need your Social Security card, or a tax return, W-2, or 1099 form that shows your full Social Security number.
For proof of Tennessee residency, bring two documents from this list: a utility bill, lease or mortgage statement, bank statement, insurance policy, or government mail addressed to you at your current address. The documents must show your name and address and be dated within the last 60 days. A PO box does not count as proof of residency.
If your name has changed since your birth certificate was issued — through marriage, divorce, or court order — bring the document that shows the legal change. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian with you; they will need to sign consent forms and bring their own ID.
Getting a learner's permit first
A learner's permit lets you practice driving with a licensed adult before you take the road test. To get one, visit a driver services center and pass the written test on Tennessee traffic laws and road signs. You do not take a driving test for the permit — only the written test. The permit costs $7 and is valid for one year.
With a learner's permit, you can drive only when a licensed driver age 21 or older is in the front seat with you. You cannot drive alone, and you cannot drive between midnight and 4 a.m. Most people practice for a few weeks or months before scheduling their road test, though there is no minimum practice time required by law.
If you already have a learner's permit from another state, Tennessee will not transfer it. You will need to get a Tennessee permit and start over with the written test.
Taking the written test
The written test has 30 multiple-choice questions about 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 services center, and you get your results when ready after you finish.
Study materials are free on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. You can read the Tennessee Driver Handbook, which covers everything on the test, or use the online practice tests. Many people spend a few hours studying before taking the test; there is no waiting period between studying and testing.
If you fail the written test, you can retake it the same day or come back another day. There is no limit to how many times you can retake it, though each attempt costs $7.
Scheduling and taking the driving test
After you pass the written test, you can schedule a road test at the same driver services center or at a different one. Road tests are booked weeks in advance in most areas, so schedule as soon as you pass the written test. You can book online through the Tennessee Department of Safety website or by calling the center directly.
For the road test, bring the vehicle you will be driving — it must be registered, insured, and in safe working condition. The examiner will check that the brakes, lights, windshield wipers, and mirrors work. Bring your learner's permit and a valid ID. The test takes about 20 to 30 minutes and includes driving on city streets and highways, parking, and stopping.
You must pass the road test to get your license. If you fail, you can retake it, but you will need to schedule another appointment and wait for the next available slot. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the road test.
What happens after you pass the road test
After you pass the road test, the examiner will take your photo and process your process. You will choose whether you want a four-year license ($27.50) or an eight-year license ($55). You will receive your license in the mail within 7 to 10 business days. Until it arrives, you can ask for a temporary paper license that is valid for 45 days.
Your Tennessee driver's license will have your photo, name, address, date of birth, and license number. It will also show any restrictions — for example, if you must wear corrective lenses or if you are limited to daylight driving only. Check the license when it arrives to make sure all the information is correct.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the written test before I have all my documents?
No. You must bring all required documents — birth certificate, Social Security proof, and two proof-of-residency documents — before you can take the written test. The driver services center will not let you test without them.
What if I fail the road test?
You can retake it as many times as you need. Schedule another appointment through the Tennessee Department of Safety website or by calling your local driver services center. There is no waiting period between attempts, but appointments fill up weeks in advance in busy areas.
Do I need a learner's permit before I can take the road test?
Yes. You must pass the written test and get a learner's permit before you can schedule a road test. The permit shows you have passed the knowledge test and are ready to practice driving.
What if my address changes after I get my license?
You must update your address with the Tennessee Department of Safety within 30 days of moving. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a driver services center. There is no fee for an address change.
Can I renew my license online?
You can renew online if your license is not expired and you have not had any major changes to your information. Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety website to check if you are may be able to access. If you need to renew in person, visit a driver services center.