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How to Renew Your Tennessee Driver’s License Online: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to renew your Tennessee drivers license with our step-by-step guide. Discover eligibility, required documents, and renewal options.

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Tired of waiting in long lines at the DMV to renew your Tennessee driver's license? Fortunately, you can often renew it online. This guide breaks down who is eligible and how to renew a Tennessee driver's license.

Introduction to Tennessee Driver's License Renewal

Tennessee residents have to renew their driver's licenses every eight years. Some people may qualify for online renewal in Tennessee.

Eligibility Requirements for Online Renewal

Here are the requirements for a Tennessee driver's license renewal:

  • Residency: You must be a Tennessee resident with a valid Tennessee address.
  • Renewal Timeframe: You can renew your license if it's within one year of the expiration date.
  • License Type: Only non-commercial Class D standard driver's licenses are eligible for online renewal.
  • Driver Status: Your license must not be suspended, revoked, or canceled.

Step-by-Step Guide to Online Renewal

Renewing your license online is a straightforward process. For your first Tennessee driver's license renewal, you will have to go to a Driver Service Center in person and provide proof of citizenship and Tennessee residency.

Step 1: Review Your Renewal Notice

You will receive a courtesy renewal notice eight to 10 weeks before your license expires. It is important to read it carefully because it explains your renewal options and whether you can renew online or not.

If you didn't get this notice, you can go to any Driver Services Centers. You don't need a notice to renew your license.

Step 2: Visit the Official TN DMV Online Services Website

If you are eligible to renew your Tennessee driver's license online, you will have to go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security's Driver Services Online portal.

Step 3: Log In or Create an Account

Log in to your e-Services account or create one if you have not done so already.

Step 4: Provide the Required Information

Once you are in e-Services, click on "Renew a License" under Non-Commercial Driver License. Follow the instructions and confirm your current address and personal details.

You can change your address online, but you can't change your name. You will need to go in person for a name change.

Step 5: Pay the Renewal Fee

Pay the renewal fee with a credit or debit card. You can't use a prepaid card.

Step 6: Confirm and Submit

After you click submit, you should receive your renewed license within 20 business days by mail. In the meantime, you can use the confirmation page as an extension of your license. It is valid for 20 days from the transaction date.

Unable To Access Online Renewal

If you cannot renew your license online, it means you are not eligible to do it now. In that case, you will have to go in person to a Driver Service Location to renew it and bring the appropriate documentation

Required Documents and Fees

The documents you bring must have your full name and the current residential address you used on your application. You will need to show proof of citizenship and two proof of Tennessee residency documents.

Accepted Proof of Citizenship Documents

  • Birth certificate
  • U.S. passport
  • Certificate of Citizenship or Naturalization
  • U.S. Citizen ID Card

Accepted Tennessee Residency Documents

  • Current utility bill
  • Current bank statement
  • Current rental or mortgage contract
  • Current insurance policy

These are just some of the residency documents accepted. You can visit Tennessee's Driver Services website for other acceptable proofs of residency.

The standard renewal fee for a Class D license is $28, though there may be additional fees if you are renewing late.

Processing Times and Delivery Information

Once you renew online, you should receive your renewal license within 20 business days by mail. Keep the confirmation page as proof of your renewal.

How To Renew Your License in Person or by Mail

Those ineligible to renew their license online will have to go in person to a Driver Service Location. You can go to a full-service center, express service center, license reinstatement center, or other Tennessee center partner.

Renewing at the DMV

Go to your local Driver Service Center and bring your current license and proof of identity (e.g., passport, birth certificate), along with two proofs of residency.

Fill out the application, pay the fee, and if required, get a photo taken.

By Mail

Tennessee residents temporarily living out of state (such as military members and college students) can renew their license by mail. You'll need to request the appropriate forms and mail them with the required documentation.

Stay Safe and Save: Consider Car Insurance Options

Renewing your driver's license is a perfect time to reassess your Tennessee car insurance policy and make sure it is right for you. Get quotes from multiple insurance companies to find cheap car insurance in Tennessee.

Insurance options vary greatly based on your demographic, where you live, and more. Comparing quotes helps you get the best insurance rate. Want an easy and quick way to compare quotes? Use Everquote to get a free personalized quote. Don't miss out on potential savings by shopping around!

FAQs

What do I need to renew my driver's license in Tennessee?
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To renew, you'll need to provide Proof of Citizenship or Lawful Permanent Residency and two proofs of Tennessee Residency. You will also need to fill out an application, either in person or online, and submit payment.
Why can't I renew my TN driver's license online?
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If you can't renew your driver's license online, it means you are not eligible. You will have to get your license in person at a Driver Service Center.
What is the grace period for expired licenses in Tennessee?
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Tennessee has a six-month grace period for renewing an expired license. However, it is illegal to drive with an expired license.
What are two proofs of residency for the DMV in Tennessee?
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Acceptable proof of residency includes recent utility bills, a lease or mortgage agreement, and official financial institution documents like bank or insurance statements. The Tennessee Driver Services website has a full list of acceptable proofs of residency.