What You Need to Do Right Now

To replace a lost driver's license in Tennessee, you must visit a Driver Services Center in person with proof of identity and proof of residency. Tennessee does not issue replacement licenses by mail or online. You will pay a fee (currently $27.50 for a standard license), take a new photo, and receive a temporary paper license on the spot; your permanent card arrives by mail in 7 to 10 business days.

If your license was stolen rather than lost, you should also file a police report and bring the report number or a copy to the Driver Services Center. This protects you against identity theft and creates an official record. Tennessee does not require the police report to process your replacement, but having one on file strengthens your case if fraudulent activity occurs later.

Key Takeaways

  • You must appear in person at a Tennessee Driver Services Center with valid proof of identity and proof of residency; there is no mail-in or online option.
  • The replacement fee is $27.50 for a standard driver's license, and you will receive a temporary paper license when ready and a permanent card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.
  • If your license was stolen, file a police report first and bring the report number to the Driver Services Center to create an official record.
  • You do not need to retake the written or road test to replace a lost license; you only need to provide identity documents and pay the fee.
  • Bring original documents or certified copies; photocopies alone will not be accepted as proof of identity or residency.

Acceptable Proof of Identity Documents

Tennessee requires one form of primary identification or two forms of secondary identification. A primary ID is a government-issued document with your photo, name, and date of birth. The most common primary IDs are a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or state ID card.

If you do not have a primary ID, you may bring two secondary IDs instead. Secondary documents include a Social Security card, birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, or a previous Tennessee driver's license (even if expired). Each secondary document must show your name and match the other documents you bring.

All documents must be originals or certified copies. Photocopies, faxes, or photos of documents will not be accepted. If your birth certificate or other vital record is from another state, it must be a certified copy issued by that state's vital records office.

Acceptable Proof of Residency Documents

You must bring one document that shows your current Tennessee address. Proof of residency must be dated within the last 60 days and show your full name and street address (not a P.O. box).

Accepted documents include a utility bill (electric, gas, water, or internet), a lease or rental agreement, a mortgage statement, a property tax bill, a bank or credit card statement, an insurance policy, or a government notice (such as a tax return or court document). A cell phone bill is not accepted. If you live with someone else and the bill is in their name, bring a signed letter from the person whose name is on the bill, stating that you live at that address.

Like identity documents, proof of residency must be an original or certified copy. A printed email or screenshot is not acceptable.

Step-by-Step Process at the Driver Services Center

First, locate the Driver Services Center nearest you. Tennessee has centers in most counties; you can find the full list and hours on the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website. You do not need an appointment, but wait times vary by location and time of day. Arriving early in the morning or mid-week typically means shorter waits.

When you arrive, bring your proof of identity, proof of residency, and your Social Security number (written down or memorized). Tell the staff member at the counter that you are replacing a lost license. They will verify your documents, check your driving record, and confirm that no suspension or hold exists on your license.

Next, you will have your photo taken for the new license. Wear clear glasses if you normally do; sunglasses are not permitted. The photo will be used on both your temporary and permanent license, so dress as you normally would for an ID photo.

Pay the $27.50 fee by cash, debit card, or credit card. You will receive a temporary paper license printed on the spot. This temporary license is valid for 30 days and can be used for driving, employment, or age verification. Your permanent plastic license card will arrive by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Do not discard the temporary license until the permanent one arrives.

If Your License Was Stolen

File a police report with the local police department or sheriff's office in the county where the theft occurred. You do not need to wait for the report to be filed before going to the Driver Services Center, but having the report number or a copy speeds up the process. Bring the report number or a copy of the report to the Driver Services Center when you explore for your replacement.

A police report creates an official record that protects you if someone tries to use your lost license fraudulently. It also alerts law enforcement to the theft, which can help if your license is found or used illegally. Some identity theft protection services will not cover fraud involving a lost ID unless a police report was filed.

You may also want to place a fraud alert with the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) if you believe your identity information is at risk. This is separate from the driver's license replacement process but adds a layer of protection.

What Happens If You Cannot Appear in Person

Tennessee does not offer exceptions to the in-person requirement. You must physically go to a Driver Services Center yourself. If you are unable to travel due to a medical condition or disability, contact the Driver Services Center directly to ask about accommodations. Some centers may be able to arrange a visit at a different time or location, but this is handled case-by-case and is not may provide.

If you are out of state temporarily, you will need to return to Tennessee to replace your license. There is no way to complete this process remotely or through a representative. If you have moved out of Tennessee permanently, you will need to obtain a driver's license from your new state instead.

Timeline and What to Expect After You Leave

Your temporary paper license is valid when ready and can be used for driving right away. The permanent plastic card typically arrives within 7 to 10 business days, though it can take up to two weeks during busy periods. Do not throw away the temporary license until the permanent one arrives in your mailbox.

If your permanent license does not arrive within two weeks, contact the Driver Services Center where you applied. Bring your temporary license and ask them to check the status. They can reissue the card or investigate if it was lost in the mail.

Your new license will have a new license number. Your old license number is no longer valid. If you need to update your license number with your employer, insurance company, or other organizations, do so once you receive the permanent card.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to retake the written test or road test to get a replacement license?

No. Replacing a lost license does not require you to retake any tests. You only need to provide proof of identity and residency and pay the fee. The replacement process assumes your driving record and license status have not changed.

What if I don't have a Social Security number?

Bring your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, or contact the Driver Services Center before you visit to ask what alternative documentation they will accept. You will need to bring original documents or certified copies.

Can I use a temporary address or P.O. box as proof of residency?

No. Proof of residency must show a street address in Tennessee, not a P.O. box or temporary address. If you are living in a shelter or transitional housing, ask the facility staff whether they can provide a letter on letterhead confirming your current address.

What if my name has changed since my last license?

Bring a certified copy of the document that shows the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The Driver Services Center will update your name in the system and issue a new license with the correct name.

How much does it cost to replace a lost license in Tennessee?

The fee is $27.50 for a standard driver's license. If you hold a commercial driver's license (CDL), the fee may be higher; ask the Driver Services Center for the exact amount. The fee is non-refundable, even if you decide not to complete the replacement.