✅ Updated January 2021
Ultimate guide to getting your driver's license in Tennessee
Here's the ultimate guide to getting your driver license at the Tennessee DMV. We've simplified the entire process for you so you can save time.
What You’ll Need to Get your Tennessee DMV Driver License
- Proof of U.S Citizenship, Lawful Permanent resident status
- Proof of any name change
- Two proofs of Tennessee Residency with your name and resident address
- A Social Security Number or sworn affidavit if no Social Security number has been issued.
- Proof of registration and safety inspection for vehicle used for road test
- Payment for required fees
- $3 for Learner’s Permit fee
- $32 for Class D driver’s license fee
Under 18 Applicants:
- Required Documents
- Proof of school attendance/progress (SF1010 Form, provided by the school; necessary for Learner Permit only
- Teenage Affidavit/Financial Responsibility (also available at the Driver Services Center)
- Certification of 50 Hours Behind the Wheel Driving Experience (SF-1256) (also available at the Driver Services Center)
What You’ll Do to Get your Tennessee DMV Driver License
- Step 1: Read Comprehensive Driver License Manual will help new and old drivers alike get ready for initial, renewal, and other license applications and take online practice exams to prepare for the written test
- Step 2: Visit your nearest DMV OFFICE to apply for your Learner’s Permit (optional: make an appointment!)
- Submit the required documents & ID
- Pass the written test
- Pass the vision test
- Submit payment
- Receive your Learner’s Permit
- Step 3: Practice driving for at least 60 days (accompanied by a licensed driver over age 21, or a close family member over age 18)
- Step 4: Visit your nearest DMV office to apply for your Class D driver’s license (optional: make an appointment!)
- Submit the required documents & ID
- Pass the road test
- Submit payment
- Receive a temporary driver’s license
- Step 5: Receive your new Class D driver’s license via U.S. mail
Caveats and Exceptions to Getting your Tennessee Driver License
- the majority of applicants for a Tennessee driver license will be operators of regular passenger vehicles, pick-up trucks, or vans. The Driver License Manual is designed to provide the information you need to get a Class D license.
- If a person holds a valid Tennessee license and is in the United States Armed Forces, that license shall remain valid regardless of the displayed expiration date
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