8 years can fly by…
The next thing you know, it’s time to renew your Tennessee driver’s license.
Do you still remember how?
Did the process change?
Let’s find out in this complete 2024 guide to the Tennessee driver’s license renewal.
Here, we’ll give you all the requirements and steps for the different renewal channels.
So are you ready?
Let’s dive right in!
How to Renew A Driver’s License in Tennessee
Drivers in Tennessee can renew their licenses in three ways:
- Online
- By Mail
- In Person
Don’t worry — all of them are straightforward.
But not all channels are available to all drivers.
Let’s break down each of these methods so you can determine which one you can use.
How to Renew Your TN Driver’s License Online
Most drivers prefer to renew online since it’s the most convenient method.
Unfortunately, not everyone qualifies for it.
If you’re unsure if you can renew online or not, check out the list below. Mark off each item that applies to you:
- You received a renewal notice from the DSD
- You’re a US citizen
- You don’t have any restrictions or endorsements on your license
- You don’t carry a commercial license
- You aren’t renewing your credential for the first time
- Your photo in the DSD was from the last five years
- You don’t need to update your personal details
- You don’t need to upgrade your license to a REAL ID
If you’re able to check off everything, then you can take part in online renewal.
Here are the steps:
- Prepare the following information:
- Your complete name (as how it appears on your driver’s license)
- Date of birth
- Social Security Number
- Driver’s license number
- Go to the Driver Services Division’s e-services page and click the link to renew your license.
- Verify your identity using your details in Step 1.
- Follow the on-screen prompts.
- Pay the $28 renewal fee with a credit or debit card.
| NOTE: You may have to pay an additional $5-$10 if you renew an expired license. You may also need to pay an administrative fee. |
- Wait for the confirmation in your email. You can print it out to use as a 20-day license extension.
- Receive your new license through the mail within three weeks.
How to Renew Your TN Driver’s License by Mail
Let’s say you’re not comfortable with online transactions.
No worries.
This is where mail-in renewals come in.
However, you must meet the same eligibility requirements for online renewal.
To retrace, these are the requirements:
- You received a renewal notice from the DSD (VERY IMPORTANT)
- You’re a US citizen
- You don’t have any restrictions or endorsements on your license
- You don’t carry a commercial license
- You aren’t renewing your credential for the first time
- Your photo in the DSD was from the last five years
- You don’t need to update your personal details
- You don’t need to upgrade your license to a REAL ID
And here are the steps:
- Follow the instructions for a by-mail renewal in the renewal notice sent to you.
- Include a $28 check, cashier’s check, or money order.
| NOTE: County Clerks will charge an additional administrative fee of $4. |
- Put everything in an envelope and send it to the address in the renewal notice.
- Wait for your new credential to arrive via mail within 3 weeks.
| NOTE: Unlike online renewal, you won’t receive a 20-day license extension. So you need to keep this in mind when planning your timeline. |
How to Renew Your TN Driver’s License In-Person
Don’t qualify for online and mail-in renewal?
Then you have to do it at a local Driver Service Center.
Remember, this is a MUST if:
- You have a commercial license.
- You aren’t a US citizen.
- You want to upgrade your credential to a REAL ID.
- It’s your first renewal.
- Your photo in the DSD is over 8 years old.
- Your driver’s license has restrictions.
- You need to update the personal information on your credential.
If so, then here are the steps:
- Visit a local Driver Service Center. Don’t forget to check their operating hours and whether you need to make an appointment.
- Present the following when you go:
- Your current Tennessee driver’s license
- Name change documents (if applicable)
- Documents proving the following (if the purpose applies to you):
| Purpose | Citizenship(1 item) | Residency(2 items) | Legal Presence(1 item) |
| First Renewals | X | ||
| Temporary Driver’s License | X | X | |
| Upgrading to a REAL ID | X | X |
- Have your photo taken.
- Update your signature.
- Pay the $28 renewal fee through cash, check, money order, or credit/debit card.
| NOTE: Some counties charge an additional $4 administrative fee for clerk of court office services. If you renew a license that expired more than 30 days ago, you will also have to spend an additional $5 to $10 fee. |
- Receive your new credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee Driver’s License Renewal
What Documents Do I Need to Renew My Driver’s License in Tennessee?
You only need to present your Tennessee-issued driver’s license to renew it at a Driver Service Center.
However, some situations require additional paperwork. These include the following:
| Purpose | Citizenship(1 item) | Residency(2 items) | Legal Presence(1 item) |
| First Renewals | X | ||
| Temporary Driver’s License | X | X | |
| Upgrading to a REAL ID | X | X |
Does Tennessee Have a Grace Period for Expired Driver’s Licenses?
Tennessee does NOT grant its drivers a grace period. When your license expires, you can’t operate a motor vehicle anymore (until you have it renewed).
Driving without a valid license may result in a fine of up to $50 or up to 30 days in jail. It’s also a Class C misdemeanor.
What’s more, you will have to pay an additional fee of $5-$10 if you renew an expired license.
How Much is a TN Driver’s License Renewal?
The driver’s license renewal fee in Tennessee is $28. However, a penalty ranging from $5 to $10 applies if you renew an expired license.
Some Driver Service Centers charge an extra $4 for clerk of court office services.
When Can I Renew My Driver’s License in Tennessee?
You don’t have to wait until the last minute before starting the renewal process. You can submit your application as early as 30 days before your license expires.
Remember, it may take several weeks before your new credential arrives (especially if you renew online or by mail). You must consider this timeframe when you complete your license renewal.
Do I Have to Take a Vision Test to Renew My Driver’s License in Tennessee?
No, you don’t need to pass a vision screening to renew your TN driver’s license. This is only required for seniors.
The Wrap Up
And that was your complete guide to the Tennessee driver’s license renewal.
Your driver’s license is something you’ll use regularly, so ensure that you don’t let it expire. Otherwise, you can’t drive in the state (at least not legally).
Fortunately, the renewal process is VERY simple — and you have 3 channels to choose from, too.
However, if you get confused and need to check if you’re still on the right path, all the information you need is in this article.
Good luck!