Tennessee License Renewal at a Glance
How to Renew Your Driver's License in Tennessee
You renew your license through the Department of Safety and Homeland Security (DSHS). Tennessee licenses last 8 years. Yours expires on your birthday. For a general overview of renewal rules across all states, see our driver's license renewal guide. Here are your options and steps.
Ways to Renew
- Online — the fastest way to renew. Visit the DSHS renewal portal.
- In person — go to a DSHS office. First-time REAL ID, vision tests, and new photos all need an in-person visit.
Steps to Renew
- Check eligibility — Go to the TN DSHS site. Can you renew online? Check there first.
- Gather documents — Grab your license number and SSN. Have payment ready. Want REAL ID? Bring ID and address docs.
- Complete the application — Use the portal online. Or visit a Driver Services Center. Check your info. Then submit.
- Pay the fee — Pay $28. Use a credit card, debit card, or e-check.
- Receive your license — Get a temp at the center. Or print one online. Your card comes by mail in 7 to 10 days.
Tennessee Driver's License Renewal Fees
| Standard renewal fee | $28 |
| Duplicate/replacement license | $12 |
| Motorcycle endorsement (Class M) | $13.50 |
| Name change | $8 |
| Knowledge test retest | $10 |
| Valid for | 8 years |
You pay $28 for 8 years. REAL ID costs the same. No late fee in TN.
What to Bring
Bring these docs when you renew:
- Current or expired Tennessee driver's license
- Social Security number
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence
- Two proofs of Tennessee residency (for REAL ID)
- Renewal fee payment
Who Can Renew Online
You can renew online if you meet these rules:
- Your license is not expired more than 5 years
- You are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Your license is not suspended or revoked
- You have a valid Social Security number on file
- You are not getting a REAL ID for the first time
TN lets you renew online many times. You'll need a new photo now and then.
Go to DSHS online renewal portalWhat Happens If Your Tennessee License Expires
TN doesn't have a formal grace period. But you can renew up to 5 years late. No retests needed.
- Before expiry — Up to 6 months before expiration
- After expiry — Up to 5 years after expiration without retaking tests
- Long-lapsed penalty — Over 5 years late? You must retake both tests. Driving expired is a Class C charge. Fines reach $50.
If you also need to update your vehicle registration, see our car registration renewal guide.
Important: You cannot drive with an expired license in Tennessee. The window only affects how you renew. It does not let you drive past your expiry date.
Vision Test & Health Rules
- Vision test — Yes. You'll take one at each in-person visit. Online? No vision test needed.
- In-person visits — TN lets you renew online many times. You'll need a new photo now and then.
- Wait time — Online takes 3 to 5 days. Your card comes by mail in 7 to 10 days.
Common Tennessee License Renewal Mistakes
Watch out for these mistakes:
Not knowing about the 5-year post-expiration renewal window
TN lets you renew up to 5 years late. No retests needed. Don't assume you must start over.
Visiting a Driver Services Center during peak hours
Centers are busiest on Mondays and Fridays. The first and last days of the month are bad too. Go mid-week for short waits.
Not budgeting for the vision test at in-person renewals
Wear glasses? Bring them. Fail the vision test? You'll need to see an eye doctor. Then come back with a form.
Forgetting to bring two proofs of residency for REAL ID
REAL ID needs two TN address proofs. One bill isn't enough. Bring two different docs.
REAL ID Info for Tennessee
TN REAL ID is free to upgrade. Visit a Driver Services Center. Bring your birth cert or passport, SSN card, and two TN address proofs.
You need a REAL ID (gold star) to board U.S. flights. You also need one to enter federal buildings. This started May 7, 2025. Get one at your next in-person visit. See our full REAL ID deadline guide for costs and next steps.
What Makes Tennessee Different
TN lets you renew up to 5 years late. No retests. That's one of the most generous windows.
TN gives 8-year licenses for just $28. That's only $3.50 a year.
TN uses Driver Services Centers. It doesn't have a DMV.