New to Tennessee? How to Exchange Your Foreign Driver's License in 2025

Welcome to the Volunteer State! As you settle into your new life in Tennessee, one of the most important practical steps you'll take is obtaining a local driver's license. While you can drive on a valid foreign license for a short period, state law requires you to get a Tennessee license once you establish residency.

The process of transferring a foreign license at a Tennessee Driver Services Center can seem complex, but this guide will break it down into simple, actionable steps. We will cover residency rules, crucial reciprocity agreements that can save you time and effort, all the necessary documentation, and the tests you will need to take to drive legally in your new home state.

Step 1: Understand Residency and Reciprocity

The first thing to determine is how Tennessee's laws apply to your specific situation, which largely depends on your country of origin.

Establishing Tennessee Residency

If you move to Tennessee and become a resident (by accepting employment, enrolling children in school, or living here for 30 days), you have 30 days to obtain a Tennessee driver's license.

Reciprocity Agreements: The Key to Waiving the Road Test

This is the most critical piece of information for many international newcomers. A reciprocity agreement means the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security has an understanding with another country to recognize its licensing standards, which significantly simplifies the process for you.

• Countries with Reciprocity: Tennessee has driver's license reciprocity agreements with France, Germany, South Korea, and Taiwan.
• What This Means for You: If you hold a valid, unexpired non-commercial driver's license from one of these four countries, the state will waive the driving skills test (road test).
• What is NOT Waived: You will still be required to pass the vision screening and the written knowledge test. This is a key point: reciprocity in Tennessee does not exempt you from the written exam.
• All Other Countries: If your driver's license is from any country not on this list, you must complete the entire licensing process as if you were a brand-new driver. This includes passing the vision, knowledge, and full on-road driving skills tests.

Step 2: Assemble Your Essential Documents

The Tennessee Driver Services Division has strict documentation requirements. All documents must be originals or certified copies. No photocopies will be accepted.

Required Documentation Checklist:

1. Your Valid Foreign Driver's License: You must be prepared to surrender your physical, valid license from your home country.
   • Certified Translation: If your license is not in English, you MUST provide a certified translation. An International Driving Permit (IDP) can serve this purpose, but must be accompanied by your actual license.
2. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence: This is a crucial step. For non-U.S. citizens, you will typically need a combination of the following:
   • A valid, unexpired Foreign Passport.
   • A valid, unexpired U.S. Visa and your I-94 Arrival/Departure Record.
   • A valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) or Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
3. Proof of Social Security Number: You must present your original Social Security card or other acceptable proof (like a W-2 form). If you are not eligible for a Social Security Number, you must obtain an original letter from the Social Security Administration (SSA) confirming your ineligibility.
4. Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency: You must provide two separate documents from different sources that show your name and current physical Tennessee address (PO Boxes are not accepted). Examples include:
   • Utility bills (electric, gas, water) dated within the last four months.
   • A current, signed lease or rental agreement.
   • Bank or credit card statements.
   • A recent payroll stub.
5. Completed Application Form: You can get this form at the Driver Services Center or download it online to fill out in advance.

Step 3: The Licensing and Testing Process

With your documents in hand, you must make an appointment to visit a Driver Services Center.

For Reciprocal Countries (France, Germany, S. Korea, Taiwan):

1. Make a Driver Services Appointment: Schedule your visit online using the e-Services portal.
2. Present Documents: Provide all the required documentation from the checklist above.
3. Pass the Vision Test: An examiner will check your eyesight to ensure it meets state safety standards.
4. Pass the Written Knowledge Test: You must pass the multiple-choice test on Tennessee traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving practices. The Tennessee Comprehensive Driver Manual is your essential study guide.
5. Surrender License and Pay Fees: Once you pass the tests, you will surrender your foreign license and pay the required fees.
6. Receive Your License: You will receive a temporary paper license, and your permanent photo license will be mailed to you.

For All Other (Non-Reciprocal) Countries:

1. Apply for a Learner Permit: You must first pass the vision test and the written knowledge test. Upon passing, you will be issued a Tennessee Learner Permit.
2. Schedule a Skills Test: With your permit, you can now schedule your on-road driving skills test for a future date.
3. Pass the Skills Test: You must successfully pass the practical road test, which includes maneuvers like a three-point turn, backing up, and a quick stop.
4. Get Your License: After passing the skills test, you will surrender your learner permit and foreign license, pay the fees, and be issued your full Tennessee driver's license.

By meticulously gathering your documents and understanding the process for your specific situation, you can confidently navigate the steps to becoming a legally licensed driver in your new home state.