What You Need to Do to Get Your License Back in Tennessee
To reinstate your Tennessee driver's license, you must first find out why it was suspended or revoked, then complete the specific steps the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) requires for that reason. The process is not the same for every suspension — a suspension for unpaid traffic fines requires different action than one for a DUI conviction or failure to maintain insurance.
You can check your license status and the reason for suspension by calling the TDOSHS Driver Services line at 615-251-8590 or by visiting the TDOSHS website and using their license status lookup tool. Once you know the reason, you can move forward with the specific reinstatement path that applies to you.
Key Takeaways
- Your suspension reason determines what you must do to reinstate — unpaid tickets, insurance lapses, and DUI convictions each have different requirements.
- You can find out why your license was suspended by calling TDOSHS at 615-251-8590 or checking the online status lookup tool.
- Most reinstatements require you to pay a reinstatement fee to TDOSHS, which varies depending on the reason for suspension.
- If your suspension was for a DUI or refusal to take a breath test, you will need an SR22 form from your insurance company before you can reinstate.
- After you complete all requirements, you must visit a TDOSHS office in person to finalize your reinstatement.
Suspensions for Unpaid Traffic Fines or Court Costs
If your license was suspended because you did not pay a traffic ticket or court costs, you must pay the full amount owed to the court that issued the citation. The court will then notify TDOSHS that the debt is satisfied. You cannot reinstate your license until the court confirms payment.
Contact the court listed on your ticket or citation to find out the exact amount owed and how to pay it. Many Tennessee courts accept payment by phone, online, or in person. Once the court receives your payment, they send notice to TDOSHS, which can take several business days to process.
After TDOSHS receives notice from the court, you will still need to pay the reinstatement fee — typically $100 to $150, depending on the type of suspension — and visit a TDOSHS office to complete the reinstatement. Bring your driver's license or ID and proof of payment if you have it.
Suspensions for Failure to Maintain Insurance
A suspension for failure to maintain auto insurance means TDOSHS received notice that your coverage lapsed while you were driving. To reinstate, you must obtain a new insurance policy and have your insurance company file an SR22 form (also called a Certificate of Financial Responsibility) with TDOSHS.
The SR22 is not a separate insurance product — it is a form your current insurance company files to prove you now have coverage. Contact any auto insurance company licensed to write policies in Tennessee and purchase a standard auto insurance policy. When you buy the policy, tell the agent you need an SR22 filed. Most companies file it electronically within one to three business days.
Once TDOSHS receives the SR22, you will need to pay the reinstatement fee (usually $100 to $150) and visit a TDOSHS office in person to complete the reinstatement. Bring your driver's license, proof of insurance, and photo ID.
Suspensions for DUI Conviction or Refusal to Take a Breath Test
A DUI or refusal suspension in Tennessee is more complex than other suspensions. You must wait out a mandatory suspension period, complete a substance abuse assessment, and obtain an SR22 from your insurance company. The length of the suspension period depends on whether this is your first offense and whether you refused a breath test.
For a first DUI conviction, the mandatory suspension is typically one year. For a refusal to take a breath test, it is two years. If you have prior DUI convictions on your record, the suspension period is longer. You cannot shorten this waiting period — you must wait the full time before you can even begin the reinstatement process.
During the suspension period, you should complete a substance abuse assessment through an approved provider. TDOSHS maintains a list of approved assessors on its website. The assessment costs vary but typically range from $100 to $300. After you complete the assessment, keep the paperwork — you will need to show it when you reinstate.
Before you visit a TDOSHS office to reinstate, you must also obtain an SR22 from your insurance company. This works the same way as for an insurance lapse suspension: purchase a policy and ask the agent to file the SR22. You will also pay the reinstatement fee, which for a DUI suspension is typically $275 to $350.
Suspensions for Accumulating Too Many Points
Tennessee suspends licenses when a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a 12-month period. Points are assigned based on traffic violations — for example, speeding is 3 to 8 points depending on how far over the limit, and reckless driving is 8 points. A suspension for points accumulation is automatic once you hit 12.
To reinstate after a points suspension, you must wait out the suspension period (usually 30 to 90 days for a first suspension) and then pay the reinstatement fee, typically $100 to $150. You do not need to complete any other requirements unless your suspension was also related to insurance or a DUI.
When you visit the TDOSHS office to reinstate, bring your driver's license, photo ID, and payment for the reinstatement fee. Your points record will reset after the suspension ends, though the violations themselves remain on your driving record.
Steps to Complete Your Reinstatement in Person
After you have met all the requirements for your specific suspension type — paid fines, obtained insurance and SR22, completed assessments, or waited out the suspension period — you must visit a TDOSHS Driver Services office in person to finalize your reinstatement.
Bring your current driver's license or state ID, a photo ID if your license is not available, proof of any requirements you completed (such as proof of insurance, SR22 documentation, or assessment completion), and payment for the reinstatement fee. You can pay by cash, check, or card at the office.
The TDOSHS office will verify that all requirements have been met, process your reinstatement fee, and issue you a new license or permit on the spot. The entire visit usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. You can find the office nearest you and check hours on the TDOSHS website.
Reinstatement Fees and What They Cover
Tennessee charges a reinstatement fee that varies by the reason for suspension. The fee is separate from any fines, court costs, or insurance payments you may owe. A standard reinstatement fee for most suspensions is $100 to $150. A DUI or refusal suspension carries a higher fee, typically $275 to $350.
The reinstatement fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the TDOSHS office when you complete your reinstatement. If you do not pay the fee, your license will not be reinstated, even if you have met all other requirements. Some offices accept payment plans for reinstatement fees, but you should call ahead to ask about this option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive on a suspended license if I have a work permit?
A work permit (also called a restricted license or hardship license) is different from a full reinstatement. You may be able to get a work permit that allows you to drive to work, school, or medical appointments while your license is suspended. You must request this at a TDOSHS office and meet specific criteria. A work permit does not reinstate your license — it is a temporary measure while the suspension is still in effect.
How long does it take for TDOSHS to process my reinstatement after I visit the office?
Your license is reinstated on the day you visit the TDOSHS office and complete all requirements. You receive a new license or permit before you leave. If you are waiting for TDOSHS to receive notice from a court or insurance company, that processing time is separate — it can take several business days.
What if I cannot pay the reinstatement fee all at once?
Some TDOSHS offices offer payment plans for reinstatement fees, but this varies by location. Call the office you plan to visit at 615-251-8590 and ask whether they accept partial payments or payment plans. If they do not, you will need to pay the full fee before your license can be reinstated.
Do I need a new license photo when I reinstate?
Yes, you will receive a new license with a new photo when you reinstate. Bring a photo ID to your appointment. The new license will have a new expiration date, typically four years from the date of reinstatement for a standard driver's license.
What happens if I drive while my license is suspended?
Driving on a suspended license is a criminal offense in Tennessee. You can be arrested, fined, and face additional jail time. If you are caught, your suspension period may be extended, and you may face additional charges. If you need to drive for work or medical reasons, request a work permit instead of driving illegally.