First-time driver license application for adults and teens who have completed driver education and passing knowledge and road tests.
Last updated · Source: Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Driver Services · Methodology
New Driver License in Tennessee costs $36.00 according to the official Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Driver Services fee schedule. The fee is the same statewide and is paid at the time of application.
No — new driver license requires an in-person visit to a Tennessee DMV office. Walk-ins are accepted at most offices.
No, an appointment is not strictly required for new driver license in Tennessee, but booking one is strongly recommended to avoid wait times that often exceed an hour at busy offices.
For new driver license in Tennessee you will typically need: Proof of identity (birth certificate/passport), SSN, 2× proof of residency. Originals are required — photocopies are not accepted by Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Driver Services.
New Driver License issued in Tennessee is valid for 8 years from the issue date. You can renew up to 6 months before the expiration date in most cases.
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⚠️ Always verify with Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Driver Services
Fees and requirements shown here are based on publicly available information from the official Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security — Driver Services website as of 2025. The state DMV is the authoritative source. DMVPeek is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with any state government agency.