The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is the agency responsible for processing driving licences, vehicle-related procedures and related processes in the state of Tennessee. If you are a new resident in Tennessee , you will need to be aware of some of the processes and procedures necessary to get your vehicle documentation in order, as well as the driver’s own.
You can make an appointment with the Tennessee DMV online, over the phone, or in person at an office near you.
How do I book a Tennessee DMV appointment?
- Contact the Tennessee DMV at https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/.
- Choose from online services, driver’s license/ID, vehicle registration, or schedule an appointment.
- You can make an appointment, take a test, renew your driving licence or ID, request a duplicate, modification or payment.
- You can also check opening hours and access phone numbers.
- At some Tennessee DMV offices appointments will be available in person, at others via telephone services.
The Tennessee DMV has an appointment system for certain required in-person transactions that cannot be made online, by phone, or by mail.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tennessee DMV Appointments
- Going to the DMV. Always make an appointment before you go to the DMV. You can make an appointment on the DMV website, by calling 1-(800)-777-0133, or by using the DMV NOW app on your iPhone or Android device.
- Fill out a DL Form 44. This is the same form that all Tennessee driver’s license applicants use. Please do not enter any false information on this form. If you do not have the requested information, such as a valid social security number, leave this section blank. Provide all information requested.
- Pay the $33 application fee. Pay this money directly to the DMV while you are in the office. This is the only fee for the driving licence.
- Verify your identity and Tennessee residency. For more information about verifying your identity and residency in Tennessee , visit our FAQ page.
- Provide your fingerprints. Remember: DMV will not open an investigation into your immigration status. If you are already being investigated by
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), talk to a reputable attorney before applying for an AB 60 driving licence.
- Take a photo.
- Go through an eye exam. If you need glasses or contact lenses to see clearly, you must wear them while driving.
- Pass a written test. To help you pass the written test, take our free online course (currently only available in Spanish) and our free printable practice tests.
- Get your driving licence. An instructor’s license ONLY allows you to drive a vehicle IF the passenger seat is occupied by a person 18 years of age or older with a valid Tennessee driving licence. If you already have a driving licence, you can practice driving with a licensed adult driver until you feel confident to take and pass the driving test.
Is DMV in Tennessee taking walk-ins?
The Tennessee DMV will expand its Customer Service Center to include both appointments and walk-ins Monday through Friday. Here’s what you can expect before your next visit: Appointments and walk-ins will be available Monday through Friday, please check in advance by calling the Customer Service number to speak with a representative.
Best times to make an appointment with the Tennessee DMV
Here are some tips on the best times to visit the Tennessee DMV.
- Afternoons tend to be busier than mornings.
- Wait times are usually shorter in the middle of the week than on Mondays and Fridays.
- The Tennessee DMV office begins its lunch break around noon, leaving fewer employees. If possible, try to avoid the lunch hour.
- Make sure you have enough time to complete your paperwork, especially if you are getting your license or taking your driving test.
What to do at the Tennessee DMV
The Tennessee DMV is increasingly offering online services, so you can get things done without having to make an appointment at a physical office. You can renew your vehicle registration, change your driving licence, and much more online.
Here are some of the services you can perform at the Tennessee DMV from online appointments.
Real ID in Tennessee
Under the Real ID Act of 2005, each state has minimum security standards for the issuance and production of driver’s licenses and identification cards.
As of May 3, 2023, everyone will be required to carry a REAL ID card to enter certain federal buildings, access nuclear facilities, and board commercial flights within the United States.
REAL ID card requirements in Tennessee
- To obtain a REAL ID card in Tennessee , you can renew your driving licence or ID card online to obtain a new REAL ID card.
- If you have not previously obtained a Tennessee driving licence or ID card, go to a Tennessee DMV office.
- To apply for a REAL ID card, you will need to present an identification document that includes your date of birth and your real full name (Passport, birth certificate, address card, receipt).
- Make an appointment at a DMV service centre to obtain a Tennessee REAL ID card.
Steps to obtain a genuine identity document
REAL ID
- Gather the documents you will need to apply for a REAL ID.
- Complete the online application and upload your documents.
- Make sure you have saved the confirmation code.
- Go to a DMV office, keeping in mind the estimated capacity.
- Take the application confirmation code with you and process your REAL ID in Tennessee .
What to bring to your appointment at the Tennessee DMV
If you are applying for a Tennessee driving licence or a Tennessee traveler’s permit (REAL ID equivalent to a driver’s license or identification card), you will need to bring some documents to your Tennessee DMV appointment. If you bring all of your documents, the visit will be quicker and less hassle. Documents include:
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful presence, such as a passport or birth certificate.
- Proof of your Social Security number, such as a Social Security card or W-2 form.
- Two documents proving your residency in Tennessee , such as a utility bill or a lease.
All documents must be originals and must be stamped if necessary. If you have already submitted some documents when you apply for an appointment online, you will need to bring primarily an ID or a driver’s licence, depending on the procedure you are performing.
Tennessee DMV Appointments
The Tennessee DMV has an online appointment system that makes it easy to schedule appointments for many services. Making an appointment at a DMV office is a good way to reduce waiting time: Tennessee DMV Appointment.
DMV Tennessee Driver’s License
Identification (ID) cards, like driving licences, are used to prove your identity or age, but they do not allow you to operate a motor vehicle.
To apply for an ID card, you must first fill out a driver license (DL) or ID card application and/or go to a DMV office to provide all the necessary documents and information.
Can I go to the DMV without an appointment Tennessee ?
The Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles stated Monday that beginning March 2, all 75 of its service locations will accept appointments and walk-ins. According to the department, walk-ins will be accepted on Saturdays.
What do I need to bring to my DMV appointment Tennessee ?
Valid Tennessee driver’s license, recent utility bills, mortgage statement, or rental lease agreements with current residential street address rather than a P.O. Box. Sensitive financial information can be redacted (blacked out/whited out).
Can I make an appointment at the DMV?
At some DMV offices, you can make a reservation. Make sure you have everything you need to attend the DMV before making a reservation. We may not be able to assist you with your transaction if you do not have the relevant documentation. All available spaces are full while the reservation system indicates no reservations.
Can I register my car online in Tennessee ?
Your vehicle registration can be renewed online, over the phone, or by mail. Whenever you operate the vehicle, keep the registration card with you. Two license plates, two decals with the expiration date, and a registration card will be issued by the DMV.
How do I cancel my Tennessee DMV appointment?
If you have any questions, DMV officials suggest calling their customer service department at (804) 497-7100.
DMV Appointments Online
Tennessee DMV Offices
- Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles
- 120 State Street
- Montpelier, VT 05603-0001
- DMV hours Vermont appointments: Monday through Friday from 7:45 am to 4:30 pm.
- Email: email
- Phone: 82828-2000
- Toll-free number: 888 99-VERMONT (888998-3766)
Do you have to have an appointment for the DMV Tennessee?
To make an appointment, you’ll need a valid email address and a valid phone number. Before coming to the facility, first-time applicants should fill out the Driver License Application.
Does Tennessee DMV walk ins?
Applicants can acquire an E-Ticket online and wait in line for up to two hours before attending a facility, but this is not an appointment. All full-service Driver Services Centers will restart skill testing appointments. There will be a limited number of walk-ins available.
How long do you have to renew your drivers license after it expires in TN?
Renewal of a Tennessee driver’s license has a 30-day grace period. When you go to renew your membership after 30 days, you will be charged a late fee.
Can I get a Tennessee ID online?
To apply for an ID card, citizens must go to a local Driver Services Center and fill out the application in person. An ID card cannot be obtained online or by mail.
What time does the TN DMV open?
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday NOTE: Before visiting a Driver Services Center, make sure to check the latest Closure Advisories. IMPORTANT: Deadlines do not always mean that applications will be accepted till then.
What do I need for new TN drivers license?
Your current driver’s license, a certified copy of your driving record, or another acceptable form of identification.
Proof of US citizenship, LPR status, or proof of approved stay or temporary lawful presence in the US.
What documents do I need to get a Tennessee driver’s license?
- Proof of US citizenship and status as a lawful permanent resident.
- Any name change must be documented.
- Two evidence of Tennessee residency, including your name and address.
- If no Social Security number has been issued, a sworn affidavit is required.
Do you have to take a written test to get your license in Tennessee?
Other requirements for obtaining a Tennessee driver’s license include: passing a written knowledge exam (see the next section for more information) Taking a road skills test and having your vision checked. Being willing to pay a charge.
What happens if your license expires in Tennessee?
Tennessee does not allow you to drive with an expired license because there is no grace period. If your renewal date is more than thirty (30) days after your expiration date, you will be charged an extra $5 late fee. Allowing it to expire for more than 6 months increases the late fee to $10.00.
How much does it cost to renew your driver’s license in Tennessee?
The normal renewal charge is $28, and your new license will be mailed to you within 20 business days. You must renew your driver’s license every eight years if you live and drive in the Volunteer State.
How much is a Tennessee driver’s license?
A price of $28 is required to obtain a full Tennessee driver license. It will cost $24.50 to apply for an intermediate restricted license if you are under the age of 18. It will cost you $2 to apply for an intermediate unrestricted license.