New Drivers

New Tennessee drivers must take a vision, written and road test to obtain a driver license. Those under 18 years of age are required to have a valid Tennessee learners permit for at least six months. You are also required to bring proof of name and residency. A complete list of acceptable documents can be found in the $CSLINK or online at the Tennessee DMV website.

The Examinations (from the TN Driver’s Study Guide)

• Vision, written and road test
• Tests are given at all driver license stations and given by appointment.
• During the winter, road tests are not given in the dark.
• No test may be repeated the same day, you need to wait 7-days before retaking the test.
• If you retake the test, all original documents are required.
• There is a $2 fee each time you take the test

Tennessee Learner’s Permit

You can obtain a Class PD (learner’s permit) if you are 15 years or older and have passed your vision and written tests. You may operate a vehicle with a licensed driver who is 21 or older. To exchange your license for a Class D regular license when you are 18, you must take a road test and retake the vision test.

Steps To Getting a Full Unrestricted Tennessee License

1. Learner’s Permit
2. Intermediate Restricted LIcense
3. Intermediate Non-Restricted License
4. Regular Driver License

• Tennessee Learner's Permit Info
• Tennessee Driver's Handbook
• Tennessee DMV Website
• Tennessee DMV Locations