USA Tennessee Driver License

Tennessee Driver License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide

Planning to get, renew, or transfer a Tennessee driver license? Whether you’re a teen, an out-of-state resident, or simply need a REAL ID, this guide walks you through the process with the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS).

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Types of Tennessee Driver Licenses

• Class D License – Standard driver license for personal vehicles
• Learner Permit – For first-time and teen drivers
• Intermediate License – For drivers under 18 (part of the GDL system)
• Motorcycle License (Class M)
• Commercial Driver License (CDL) – For commercial use

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How to Get a Driver License in Tennessee

Step 1: Choose the Correct License Type

Most new drivers apply for a Class D license or a Graduated License if under 18.

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Step 2: Gather Required Documents

To apply for a standard or REAL ID-compliant license, bring:

• Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence (e.g., U.S. passport, birth certificate)
• Proof of Social Security number (e.g., SSN card, W-2)
• Two documents proving Tennessee residency (e.g., utility bill, lease)
• Proof of name change, if applicable (marriage certificate, court order)

REAL ID licenses are required for federal use beginning May 7, 2025 and are marked with a gold star.

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Step 3: Take Required Tests

If you’re a first-time applicant, you’ll need to pass:

• Vision screening
• Written knowledge test
• Driving skills test (scheduled after passing the written exam)

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Tennessee Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program

For applicants under 18, Tennessee uses a three-phase Graduated Driver License system:

1. Learner Permit (Age 15+)
   • Pass vision and written tests
   • Must drive with a licensed adult (21+)
   • Practice at least 50 hours of supervised driving (10 at night)
2. Intermediate Restricted License (Age 16–17)
   • Hold learner permit for 180 days
   • Complete 50 hours of practice
   • Pass the road skills test
   • Restrictions: No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.; passenger limits
3. Intermediate Unrestricted License (Age 17+)
   • Must be violation-free for 12 months
   • Fewer restrictions
4. Full Class D License (Age 18+)

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Transferring an Out-of-State License to Tennessee

You must transfer your license within 30 days of moving to Tennessee.

Steps:

• Visit a Driver Services Center
• Present your valid out-of-state license
• Submit required documents (identity, SSN, residency)
• Take a vision test
• Written and driving tests may be waived if the license is valid

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Tennessee Driver License Renewal

You can renew:

• Online at dl.safety.tn.gov
• In person at a Driver Services Center
• By mail (if eligible)

Licenses are valid for 8 years. You can renew up to 12 months in advance.

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Tennessee REAL ID License

Starting May 7, 2025, REAL ID will be required to:

• Board domestic flights
• Enter military bases or federal facilities

To get a REAL ID, visit a Driver Services Center with the proper documentation. A gold star will appear on the top-right corner of REAL ID licenses.

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Tennessee Driver License Fees (2025)

License Type	Fee (Approx.)
Class D License (8 years)	$28.00
Learner Permit	$10.50
Intermediate License	$24.00
Duplicate License	$8.00
Motorcycle Endorsement	$3.00
CDL (Commercial License)	Varies by class

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Tennessee Driver Services

• New driver licenses & learner permits
• Road and written tests
• REAL ID issuance
• License renewals and replacements
• Out-of-state license transfers
• Address and name changes
• Motorcycle and CDL endorsements

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Required Documents Checklist

• Proof of identity (passport or birth certificate)
• Social Security number verification
• Two Tennessee residency documents
• Driver’s education certificate (for teens)
• Valid out-of-state license (if transferring)

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For appointments, test scheduling, or updates, visit the official Tennessee Department of Safety website.