The fastest way to change your address in Tennessee

You can change your address on your Tennessee driver's license online through the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services Center. The online method is fastest — it takes about 10 minutes and costs $7. You'll need your current license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address. Once you submit the change, your updated license will arrive by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If you prefer not to use the online system, you can visit any Driver Services Center in person with your current license and proof of your new address. You can also mail in a completed form, though this takes longer. No matter which method you choose, you do not need to take a new photo or retake your written test — you're only updating the address on your existing license.

Key Takeaways

  • The online address change through the Tennessee Department of Safety website costs $7 and takes 10 minutes, with your new license arriving in 7 to 10 business days.
  • You can change your address in person at any Driver Services Center by bringing your current license and proof of your new address, such as a utility bill or lease.
  • Mail-in address changes require a completed form and proof of address, but take longer than online or in-person methods.
  • Your driver's license number, Social Security number (last four digits), and email address are required for the online process.
  • An address change does not require a new photo, written test, or renewal fee — only the $7 address change fee.

What counts as proof of your new address

Tennessee accepts several documents as proof of your new address. A utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet) in your name dated within the last 60 days is the most common choice. A lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a bank or credit card statement, or a government document showing your new address also work. The document must show your full name and current address.

If you're moving and don't yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date and new address. Some people use a notarized affidavit of residency if they're staying with family or in a situation where standard documents aren't available — call your local Driver Services Center first to confirm they'll accept it.

Changing your address online

Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and select the online address change option. You'll enter your driver's license number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, your date of birth, and your new address. The system will verify your identity using information on file. Once approved, you'll pay the $7 fee by credit or debit card.

After you submit, you'll receive a confirmation email. Your new license will be mailed to your new address within 7 to 10 business days. You can continue using your old license until the new one arrives — the address change is recorded in the system when ready, even though the physical card takes time to print and mail.

Changing your address in person at a Driver Services Center

Find your nearest Driver Services Center on the Tennessee Department of Safety website. Bring your current driver's license and one document showing your new address. You do not need an appointment at most centers, but some locations accept walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis while others use a ticket system. Check the center's hours before you go, as they vary by location.

When you arrive, tell the clerk you need an address change. Hand over your license and proof of address. The clerk will update your information in the system and charge you the $7 fee. Your new license will be mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. If you need your license for travel or identification before it arrives, ask the clerk for a temporary address change document — some centers issue these on the spot.

Changing your address by mail

read the address change form from the Tennessee Department of Safety website, or call your local Driver Services Center and ask them to mail you one. Fill out the form completely with your current license number, new address, and signature. Include a copy of one document that shows your new address — a utility bill, lease, or bank statement works. Mail the form and proof of address to the address listed on the form.

Processing by mail takes 2 to 3 weeks longer than online or in-person methods because the form has to be received, processed, and then your new license has to be printed and mailed. If you're on a tight timeline, use the online method or visit a Driver Services Center instead. Keep a copy of what you mail in case there are questions, and consider using certified mail so you have proof of delivery.

What happens if you move before your new license arrives

If you submit an address change and then move again before your new license arrives, contact the Tennessee Department of Safety with your updated address. You can call the main office or visit a Driver Services Center in person. Provide your driver's license number and explain that you've moved a second time. They can update your address in the system, and your license will be mailed to your newest address instead.

If your license is already in the mail to your old address, the post office may return it to the Department of Safety. In that case, you may need to request a replacement or submit another address change. It's easier to wait until you're settled before you submit the change, or to update your address as soon as you know your final move-in date.

Address changes and vehicle registration

Changing your driver's license address does not automatically update your vehicle registration. You must update your registration separately with the Tennessee Department of Revenue. You have 30 days from your move to update your registration address. You can do this online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services Center or county clerk's office.

Keeping both your license and registration current at the same address is important for traffic stops and mail from the state. If you're pulled over and your license and registration show different addresses, an officer may ask for an explanation. Update your registration promptly after you move to avoid confusion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to renew my license when I change my address?

No. An address change is separate from a license renewal. You only pay the $7 address change fee, not a renewal fee. Your license remains valid for its original expiration date. If your license is expiring soon anyway, you might want to renew it at the same time to avoid two separate trips, but it's not required.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

Yes. You can change your address even if your license is suspended or revoked. The address on file needs to be current so the state can reach you about your suspension status or any court dates. Update your address as soon as you move, regardless of your license status.

How long does it take to get my new license after changing my address?

Most new licenses arrive within 7 to 10 business days after you submit the change, whether you do it online, in person, or by mail. Mail-in changes may take longer because the form has to be received and processed first. Your old license remains valid until the new one arrives.

What if I don't have a utility bill or lease to prove my new address?

You can use a bank statement, credit card statement, mortgage statement, or government document showing your new address. If none of these are available, ask your landlord or utility company for a letter on official letterhead confirming your move-in date. Some Driver Services Centers also accept a notarized affidavit of residency — call ahead to confirm.

Can I change my address online if I don't have email?

The online system requires a valid email address to send your confirmation. If you don't have email, use the in-person or mail-in method instead. You can visit any Driver Services Center with your license and proof of address, or mail in the form with the required documents.