How to Renew Your Tennessee Driver’s License: A Step-by-Step Guide
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Typically, a Tennessee driver's license is valid for eight years. At the end of every eight-year cycle, you must go to a Tennessee DMV and renew your license. Driving with an expired license is like driving without a license, and the legal consequences are similar.
This guide details the state of Tennessee driver's license renewal process. It covers everything from eligibility requirements to updating personal information with the state.
Eligibility Requirements for Tennessee Driver's License Renewal
Whether renewing a standard driver's license or a REAL ID license at a Driver Services Center, you must meet specific standards for license issuance. You must provide your current license and Social Security number and pay any applicable fees.
If your license expired some time ago, you may have to go through the process as if you were getting your first license. In this case, you may need to supply proof of residency, identity, and citizenship.
Before the state issues a new license, it will ensure compliance with all Tennessee traffic laws and court-ordered requirements. For example, if your driving record shows outstanding fines, tickets, or suspensions, you may not be able to complete the Tennessee driver's license renewal process.
For more general guidance on eligibility requirements, review the Tennessee Drivers Handbook. For more current and thorough information, visit the Tennessee Driver Services webpage.
Required Documents and Fees for License Renewal in Tennessee
For all license applicants, including those renewing a current license, several documents are required:
- Proof of identity: Acceptable documents to prove identity include a birth certificate, U.S. passport, or other government-issued forms of identification, such as a voter or military ID card.
- Proof of residency: To prove residency, you'll need two documents with your name and address. These documents can be utility bills, bank statements, lease agreements, or official mail from a government agency.
You'll also need proof of your Social Security number. Your Social Security card is one of the most common forms of identification, but other forms are acceptable when the physical card isn't.
If applying for or renewing a REAL ID license, you must provide proof of citizenship. Documents that prove citizenship or legal status in the U.S. include:
- U.S. birth certificate
- U.S. passport
- Permanent resident card (Green Card)
- Employment authorization document
- Foreign passport with a U.S. visa
While the state requires minimum liability care insurance, proof of Tennessee car insurance isn't necessary for a driver's license renewal. You do need to provide proof when registering your vehicle.
Finally, you must pay the renewal fee before you can receive your new license. The cost depends on the license type and whether the renewal is late. Generally, applicants pay an application fee of $2 to $7. If the license expires, they must pay a reinstatement fee and any other penalties.
How To Renew Your Tennessee Driver's License Online
You can complete a state of Tennessee driver's license renewal online if it isn't your first renewal and you have a valid and current photo license. To renew online, visit the Department of Safety & Homeland Security Driver Services Division, specifically the e-Services section. Once there, do the following:
- Look under the Non-Commercial Driver License heading
- Click on the Renew a License, Permit, or ID
- Verify your identity
- Locate the DD number on your license
- Follow the remaining guided steps
- Pay any fees
You can also log into your account to view available online services.
Renewing Your Tennessee Driver's License in Person or by Mail
Some people might be eligible for a driver's license renewal in Tennessee by mail. However, that depends on the type of license and the validity of the picture on the license. Renewing by mail may not be possible if your picture is outdated.
To complete a state of Tennessee driver's license renewal in person, you'll need to gather the required documents from above. Once you have the documents, follow these steps:
- Locate and visit your local Driver Services Center
- Submit the required documents
- Take a vision test (if applicable)
- Pay the appropriate fees
- Get your picture taken
You'll receive your new license on the spot or in one to two weeks in the mail.
Updating Personal Information During License Renewal
The process for updating your personal information varies based on the type of information. For example, for an address change, the easiest way to update the state record is through the e-Services portal.
If your name changes, you must visit a Driver Services Center and provide a current license with your original name. Then supply a copy of the document showing the reason for the name change, such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order. The service center will charge a duplicate license fee of $8 to $16. All other duplicates, such as identification cards, cost $28.
Handling Late Renewals and Expired Licenses in Tennessee
The state typically provides a courtesy renewal notice eight to 10 weeks before your license expires. The renewal period for a standard license is usually one year from that date.
It's important to note that receiving a courtesy notice is not necessary to renew your license. Mail gets lost or misplaced all the time, so it's your responsibility to renew your license before it expires.
If you allow your license to expire and don't renew it within a reasonable window, you might need to reapply for a license as if it were your first time. This means you might have to retake the written and driving skills tests and provide more extensive documentation.
Protect Your Drive With Reliable Car Insurance
A Tennessee driver's license renewal online or in person doesn't mandate proof of insurance. Still, as a driver and vehicle owner, it's best to protect yourself. Use the EverQuote comparison tool to compare several policies simultaneously and find the one that suits your needs and budget.