A Complete Guide to Getting a Tennessee Driver’s License 2025

Table Of Content

Looking to become an official driver in Tennessee? This guide is your ultimate resource for obtaining a Tennessee driver’s license! 
This guide covers everything you need to know about getting or upgrading a driver's license in Tennessee. From the initial learner’s permit to a full license, get an overview of each step. We help you make sure you’re well-prepared for every requirement and test. Let’s get you started!

Understanding the Different Driver's License Classes in Tennessee

Class D License

Who It’s For
Most drivers, specifically those operating standard passenger vehicles.

What It Covers
This license allows you to drive regular cars, SUVs, and small trucks for non-commercial use. It's the most common license class in Tennessee.

Examples:

• Passenger cars
• SUVs
• Pickup trucks

Class M License

Who It’s For
Drivers who want to operate motorcycles.

What It Covers
This license allows you to legally ride motorcycles. You can get it as a standalone license or as an endorsement on a Class D license.

Examples:

• Motorcycles
• Scooters

Class A CDL

Who It’s For
Drivers operating large combination vehicles, such as tractor-trailers.

What It Covers
This license is required for driving vehicles with a combined weight of 26,001 lbs. or more, where the towed vehicle weighs over 10,000 lbs.

Examples:

• Tractor-trailers
• Large cargo trucks

Class B CDL

Who It’s For
Drivers of single commercial vehicles weighing over 26,001 lbs.

What It Covers
This license allows you to operate larger vehicles like buses and dump trucks but without towing a heavy trailer.

Examples:

• Buses
• Dump trucks

Class C CDL

Who It’s For
Drivers of smaller commercial vehicles that transport hazardous materials or passengers.

What It Covers
This license is for operating vehicles that don’t meet Class A or B but are still used for transporting 16 or more passengers or hazardous materials.

Examples

• Passenger vans
• Small HAZMAT trucks

How to Get a Tennessee Driver’s License

Get a Tennessee driver’s license in three steps:

1. Obtain a Learner’s Permit.

With a learner’s permit, you can start practicing driving with a licensed adult.
What You Need: You must be at least 15 years old and pass a vision and written knowledge test.

2. Apply for a Provisional License.

This provisional license has restrictions, such as limited night driving and passenger limits, until you turn 18 and qualify for a full license.
What You Need: At 16 years old, pass the driving test to upgrade from a learner’s permit to a provisional license.

3. Apply for a Full Tennessee Driver’s License

Once you turn 18, you can apply for a full, unrestricted driver's license. Before that, you’ll need to hold a provisional license, which has certain restrictions.
What You Need: After turning 16, pass the driving test to upgrade your learner’s permit to a provisional license. When you turn 18, these restrictions will be lifted, making you eligible for a full license.

Stage 1: How to Get a Learner’s Permit in Tennessee

Are you ready to learn how to drive in Tennessee? Well, you can do so legally with a TN Learner’s Permit. This is your first step toward becoming a fully licensed driver. It allows you to practice driving under the supervision of a licensed adult while gaining the experience of a full license. 

Learn everything about the application process, requirements, and steps to becoming a skilled and confident driver. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Learner’s Permit in Tennessee, you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be at least 15 years old to apply for a Learner’s Permit.
2. If you are under 18, you must have a parent or legal guardian sign your application.

Documents Required

The following documents are required for a Tennessee learner’s permit:

• Proof of Identity: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or a certified copy of your birth certificate
• Social Security Number: A Social Security card or a document that includes your Social Security number
• Proof of Tennessee Residency: Documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current address
• Proof of Enrollment or Completion of Driver Education: If you are under 18, you need to show proof of completion or enrollment in a driver education course
• Parent/Guardian Consent Form: If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign a consent form
• Proof of School Attendance/Progress (for those under 18): A Certificate of Compulsory School Attendance signed by a school official or a high school diploma/GED certificate

Validity

A Tennessee learner's permit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. If you haven't obtained your driver's license by the time your learner's permit expires, you may need to renew it to continue practicing driving legally.

Process

1. Gather Required Documents

Bring the above-mentioned documents to the service center to get started on your application.

2. Visit a TN Driver Services Center

You must file your learner’s permit application in person at the closest DSC center. Make sure to come along with your parent or guardian. Their signature is imperative on the application.

3. Pass the Knowledge Test

You’ll have to take a written knowledge test at the center. This test will cover Tennessee road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices, so make sure you’re test-ready. The best way to ensure foolproof preparation is to thoroughly read the Official Tennessee Driver’s Handbook and take unlimited free practice tests. 

4. Take a Vision Test

You will also need to pass a vision screening test. Your vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without corrective lenses). Moreover, you need a minimum of 140 degrees of peripheral vision in both eyes.

5. Pay the Fee

The fee for the learner’s permit is $10.50. Accepted payment options include cash, credit/debit cards, checks, and money orders.

6. Get Your Permit

If you pass both the knowledge and vision tests, you’ll receive your Tennessee learner’s permit. With this in hand, you’ll be able to learn driving under supervision. 

Practice for your Tennessee learner’s permit test to pass your DMV exam stress-free.

Restrictions

Tennessee has several restrictions for learner’s permit holders:

1. Supervised Driving Only: You can only drive with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old seated next to you.
2. No Late-Night Driving: Driving is not allowed between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
3. Passenger Limit: You cannot have more than one passenger unless they are immediate family members.
4. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol: Any detectable alcohol in your system can lead to penalties.
5. Seatbelts Required: All passengers must wear seatbelts at all times.

Stage 2: How to Get a Tennessee Provisional Driver’s License

After holding a learner's permit and gaining driving experience, the next step is to apply for a provisional driver’s license. This stage allows more independence behind the wheel. However, it comes with some restrictions to ensure safety as you continue developing your skills. Here’s everything to know about moving from a permit to a provisional license in Tennessee. 

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Tennessee provisional driver’s license, you must:

• Be at least 16 years old.
• Hold a valid learner’s permit for a minimum of 180 days.
• Complete at least 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night, signed off by a parent or guardian.
• Have no record of driving violations within the last six months.

Documents Required

The following documents are required for a Tennessee provisional license:

• Learner’s Permit: Your valid Tennessee learner’s permit
• Proof of Supervised Driving: A signed affidavit by a parent/guardian verifying you completed 50 hours of driving, including 10 hours at night
• Proof of Identity: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or a certified copy of your birth certificate
• Social Security Number: A Social Security card or a document that includes your Social Security number
• Proof of Tennessee Residency: Documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current address
• Proof of School Attendance/Progress – A completed Certification of Compulsory School Attendance form (for those under 18)

Validity

A Tennessee provisional driver’s license, also known as an intermediate restricted license, is valid until the driver turns 18. 

Process 

Here’s what you need to do to get a Tennessee provisional driver’s license: 

1. Hold a Learner's Permit

First, you must have had a Tennessee learner's permit for at least 180 days and be at least 16 years old.

2. Complete Supervised Driving

You need to log a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving, with at least 10 hours at night. A parent or legal guardian must sign an affidavit to verify this.

3. Pass the Road Skills Test

Schedule and pass the driving skills test at the DMV. Be sure to bring all the required documents listed above.

4. Pay the License Fee

After passing the test, pay the required fee to obtain your provisional (intermediate restricted) license. The license costs around $24.50. This fee can vary slightly depending on the specific DMV location and any additional services. Make sure to check with your local DMV office for the exact fee and payment methods accepted.

5. Follow Provisional License Restrictions

Once issued, you'll need to adhere to the restrictions that come with the provisional license until you turn 18.

Restrictions

With a Tennessee provisional (intermediate restricted) driver’s license, drivers must follow these key restrictions:

1. Night Driving: No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless supervised by a licensed adult aged 21 or older.
2. Passenger Limits: You can only have one passenger under the age of 21 unless accompanied by a licensed adult (exceptions for immediate family members).
3. Seatbelts: All passengers must wear seatbelts at all times.

These restrictions remain in place until you turn 18 and qualify for a full license.

Stage 3: How to Get Your Tennessee Driver’s License

Getting your full Tennessee driver’s license is the final step in the Graduated Driver’s License process. After meeting all requirements for your learner’s permit and provisional license, you’ll be eligible to apply for an unrestricted license. 

Here, we’ll walk you through everything you’ll need to transition smoothly to a full, unrestricted driver.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a full, unrestricted driver’s license in Tennessee, you must meet the following criteria:

1. You must be at least 18 years old.
2. You must have held a valid provisional license for at least one year without any violations.
3. You must have no more than six points on your driving record within the last year.
4. You must fulfill all stages of the Graduated Driver’s License program, including supervised driving hours.

Documents Required

The following documents are required for a Tennessee learner’s permit:

• Proof of Identity: Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or a certified copy of your birth certificate
• Social Security Number: A Social Security card or a document that includes your Social Security number
• Proof of Tennessee Residency: Documents such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or bank statement showing your current address
• Current Provisional License: Your valid Tennessee provisional driver’s license.
• Proof of Citizenship or Legal Presence: If applicable.

Validity

A full Tennessee driver’s license is typically valid for eight years. The exact expiration date depends on your age at the time of issuance:

• If you're under 21, your license will expire on your 21st birthday.
• If you're 21 or older, it will expire eight years from the date of issue, on your birthday.

Process

To apply for your TN full driver’s license, start by applying for your learner’s permit. The rest of the process is as follows:

1. Complete the Intermediate License Stage

Hold your provisional (intermediate) license for at least a year with no at-fault accidents, moving violations, or seatbelt violations.

2. Meet the Age Requirement

You must be at least 17 years old and have had your provisional license for a minimum of one year.

3. Gather Required Documents

Before visiting the DMV, make sure to put together all the required documents listed above. 

4. Visit the DMV

Schedule an appointment or walk-in at a local Tennessee DMV office to apply.

5. Pass Vision Screening

Your eyesight will be tested to ensure you meet the driving requirements. Your vision must be at least 20/40 in each eye (with or without corrective lenses). Moreover, you need a minimum of 140 degrees of peripheral vision in both eyes.

6. Pay the Fee

Pay the required license fee, which is $28 for an 8-year license. Accepted payment methods include cash, card, and money orders.

7. Receive Your Full License

If you meet all requirements, you will be issued a full driver’s license. Your physical license will arrive in the mail within 20 days. During this waiting time, you'll be given a temporary paper license to use.

Restrictions

There are no specific restrictions for a full Tennessee driver’s license, as it grants you the full privileges of driving without limitations. However, all drivers must follow general road laws, such as:

• Obeying traffic signals and speed limits
• Avoiding the use of mobile phones while driving, unless hands-free
• Always wearing a seatbelt
• Not driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Tennessee Written Knowledge Test

The Tennessee Driver’s Permit Test is an essential step in obtaining your driver's license. Based on the Driver’s Manual, the test assesses your understanding of road signs, traffic laws, and safe driving practices. 
Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about the TN knowledge test:

Tennessee Driving Skills Test

The TN Driving Skills Test evaluates your practical driving abilities. It requires you to demonstrate your skills in handling your vehicle, obeying traffic laws, and performing essential maneuvers in the presence of a DMV driving instructor. 

What Happens Before the Skills Test?

Necessary Items to Bring

When going for your Tennessee driving skills test, make sure to bring the following items:

1. Learner’s permit – You must have your valid learner’s permit.
2. Proof of identity – Bring documents proving your identity, such as a birth certificate or passport.
3. Proof of residency – Provide documents like utility bills or a lease agreement.
4. Vehicle registration – Ensure the vehicle you’ll be using is properly registered.
5. Proof of insurance – Valid auto insurance for the vehicle used during the test.
6. Test appointment confirmation – If applicable, bring proof of your scheduled appointment.

Make sure your vehicle is in safe working condition before the test.

Conducting a Vehicle Inspection

When conducting a vehicle inspection before your Tennessee driving skills test, make sure to check the following:

1. Tires – Ensure they are properly inflated and in good condition, with no visible damage.
2. Brakes – Confirm that the brakes, including the emergency brake, are working smoothly.
3. Lights – Check headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and hazard lights.
4. Mirrors – Ensure all mirrors (rearview and side) are intact and properly adjusted.
5. Windshield wipers – Confirm they are functional, especially in case of bad weather.
6. Seat belts – Ensure all seat belts in the vehicle are operational.
7. Horn – Test to make sure the horn works.
8. Windows – Confirm that all windows are clear and free from cracks.
9. Steering – Ensure the steering wheel moves smoothly and doesn’t make any strange noises.
10. Fluid Levels – Check levels for oil, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluid.
11. Battery – Ensure the battery is secure and in good condition.
12. Exhaust System – Make sure the exhaust is working properly, and there are no unusual noises or excessive smoke.
13. License Plates – Ensure both front and rear plates are securely fastened and visible.
14. Windshield and Defrosting – Ensure the defroster works properly and the windshield is clean and clear.
15. Doors – Make sure all doors open and close properly, both from inside and outside the vehicle.
16. Airbags and Seat Adjustment – Ensure the airbags are functional and the driver's seat is adjustable to a safe and comfortable position.
17. Dashboard Indicators – Ensure there are no warning lights (like ABS or Check Engine) on the dashboard.

This inspection ensures your car meets safety standards before your test.

What Happens During the Skills Test?

During the skills test, you will demonstrate your ability to operate a vehicle safely and effectively. The examiner will observe how well you handle various driving situations. You'll need to follow instructions carefully and show that you can drive safely under normal road conditions.

Things You’ll Be Tested On

Here’s a comprehensive list of the driving aspects you’ll be tested on during the skills test:

1. Vehicle Control:
   • Steering
   • Braking
   • Accelerating
   • Clutch use (for manual transmissions)

2. Traffic Rules and Laws:
   • Obeying traffic signals and signs
   • Adhering to speed limits
   • Proper use of turn signals

3. Parking Skills:
   • Parallel parking
   • Perpendicular parking
   • Hill parking
   • Parking on a slope

4. Maneuvering:
   • Navigating intersections (including right and left turns)
   • Lane changes
   • Merging into traffic
   • U-turns and three-point turns

5. Safety and Awareness:
   • Checking mirrors and blind spots
   • Maintaining safe following distance
   • Yielding to pedestrians and cyclists
   • Safe and appropriate use of headlights

6. Handling Specific Situations:
   • Driving in different weather conditions
   • Managing road conditions and obstacles
   • Proper use of hazard lights

7. Obeying Road Markings:
   • Following lane markings
   • Understanding and responding to road signs and markings

8. Reaction to Errors:
   • How you handle and correct minor driving errors
   • Ability to respond to unexpected situations

Critical Driving Test Errors

Here are some critical driving test errors that can lead to immediate failure:

1. Failure to Obey Traffic Signals: Running red lights or stop signs
2. Failure to Yield: Not yielding to pedestrians, cyclists, or other vehicles when required
3. Speeding or Driving Too Slowly: Not adhering to posted speed limits or driving too far below the limit
4. Improper Lane Changes: Not checking mirrors or blind spots before changing lanes.
5. Collisions or Near Collisions: Any accident or situation that could lead to a collision
6. Dangerous Maneuvers: Making unsafe turns, swerving, or reckless driving
7. Failure to Signal: Not using turn signals or hazard lights when necessary
8. Rolling Stops: Not coming to a complete stop at stop signs
9. Erratic Driving: Sudden, unpredictable movements or inconsistent speed control
10. Leaving the Designated Roadway: Driving off the road or crossing into restricted areas

What Happens After the Driving Test?

Once your driving test is complete, the examiner will review your performance and inform you if you passed or failed. If you pass, you'll be issued a temporary driver's license on the spot, and your official license will be mailed to you. The examiner will also discuss any mistakes you made to help you improve. If you fail, you'll receive feedback on areas that need improvement and instructions on how to schedule a retake.

How to Renew a Driver’s License in Tennessee 

You can renew your license up to 12 months before it expires.

License Renewal Methods

Online Renewal

Eligibility
You can renew online if your current license is valid or has been expired for less than five years. You must have a valid Tennessee address on file, and your photo ID and Social Security Number must already be registered.

How to Apply
Visit the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website, log in, and follow the prompts. You’ll need to pay the renewal fee using a credit or debit card.

Vision Test
Not required for online renewal.

In-Person Renewal

Eligibility
You’ll need to visit in person if you need to update your photo, have changed your name, or need a vision test.

How to Apply
Visit a Tennessee Driver Service Center. Bring your documents. 

Vision Test
It is required.

By Mail Renewal

Eligibility
This option is available for out-of-state residents, including military personnel, or those who meet specific criteria.

How to Apply
If eligible, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security will send you instructions on how to renew by mail. Follow the instructions, send your documents, and pay the required fee.

Required Documents

Bring or submit the following documents when applying for a renewal:

• Proof of Identity (Valid U.S. passport, birth certificate, etc.)
• Proof of Tennessee Residency (Utility bills, lease, or bank statement)
• Social Security Number (SSN card or alternative proof)

TN Driver’s License Renewal Fee

The fee to renew a standard Tennessee driver’s license is $28 for an 8-year license. For other license types or endorsements, the fees may vary. Payments can be made online with a credit/debit card or in-person using cash, check, or card at a Driver Service Center. Additional fees may apply if renewing late or if additional endorsements are added.

Tennessee Driver’s License for New Residents

You must transfer your driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency in Tennessee. The state requires new residents to obtain a driver’s license as soon as they make TN their permanent home. 
Whether you're coming from another state or country, this process ensures you're compliant with local driving laws and regulations. 
To qualify as a Tennessee resident, you generally need to:

• Establish a permanent residence.
• Get a local job or enroll your children in local schools.
• Change your address with financial institutions, register to vote in Tennessee, and obtain a Tennessee driver’s license or ID.

What to do If You Have an Out-of-State License 

Transferring your out-of-state driver’s license to Tennessee involves several steps:

1. Establish Residency

You must have established residency in Tennessee, which means living in the state with the intention of making it your permanent home.

2. Gather Required Documents

   • Proof of Identity: Valid photo ID like a passport or birth certificate.
   • Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card or a document showing your Social Security number.
   • Proof of Tennessee Residency: Documents such as utility bills, lease agreements, or bank statements that show your Tennessee address.
   • Out-of-State License: Your current driver’s license from your previous state.

3. Visit a Tennessee Driver Service Center

Locate the nearest Driver Service Center through the Tennessee DOS website. You must visit in person, as the process cannot be completed online.

4. Complete the Application

Fill out the driver’s license application form. You can usually find this form at the service center or download it from the Tennessee DOS website.

5. Take the Vision Test

Pass a vision test to ensure you meet Tennessee’s visual acuity requirements. This is a standard procedure to ensure safe driving.

6. Surrender Your Out-of-State License

You will need to surrender your out-of-state driver’s license to the Tennessee authorities. They will issue you a Tennessee license in exchange.

7. Pay the Fees

Pay the applicable fees ($28) for the Tennessee driver’s license. Fees vary depending on the type of license and the duration for which it is valid.

8. Receive Your Temporary License

You will be given a temporary paper license while your official Tennessee driver’s license is processed and mailed to you.

9. Update Your Vehicle Registration

If you have a vehicle, you’ll need to update your vehicle registration to reflect your new Tennessee address. This involves visiting a local county clerk’s office.

10. Wait for Your Official License

Your new Tennessee driver’s license will be mailed to you. It typically takes a few weeks to arrive.
Note: If your out-of-state driver’s license has been expired for over six months, or if you hold a license from another country, you’ll need to pass both the written knowledge test and the driving test.

What to do If You Have a Foreign License 

To convert a foreign driver’s license to a Tennessee license, follow these steps:

1. Check Eligibility

Ensure that your country has a reciprocal agreement with the U.S. for driver's license recognition. Countries like Canada, Germany, South Korea, and France may allow direct conversion without taking the knowledge or skills tests.

2. Visit a Driver Service Center

Go to a local Tennessee Driver Service Center in person. You cannot complete this process online.

3. Provide Required Documents

   • Proof of Identity (Passport, visa, or another government-issued ID)
   • Proof of U.S. Legal Presence (I-94 form, work visa, or other documents)
   • Proof of Social Security Number (SSN card, or provide proof of ineligibility if applicable)
   • Proof of Tennessee Residency (Utility bills, lease agreement, or official correspondence)
   • Foreign License (You must surrender your foreign license if it’s accepted)

4. Pass Required Tests

If your country is not eligible for direct conversion, you must pass the written knowledge test and road sings test.
Some countries may allow you to skip the tests if you meet the requirements.

5. Pay the Fee

You will need to pay the license application fee at the center.

6. Receive Temporary License

You will receive a temporary license once you complete the process. You can use it until your official Tennessee driver’s license is mailed to you.

7. Countries with Reciprocity Agreements

Tennessee recognizes licenses from countries such as:

• Canada
• Germany
• South Korea
• France

If your country is not on this list, you will need to follow the full testing process.