Renewing Your Tennessee License in 2025: Online, Mail, and In-Person Guide

Every driver in Tennessee must periodically renew their license to legally stay on the road. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security has made this process more convenient than ever, offering an efficient online renewal system, self-service kiosks, and traditional in-person services.

This guide covers everything you need to know about renewing your Tennessee driver's license in 2025, from renewal timelines and REAL ID requirements to fees and what to do if your license is already expired.

When to Renew Your TN License

A standard Tennessee driver's license is valid for eight years and expires on your birthday. You can renew your license up to one year before its expiration date. While the state may send a courtesy renewal notice, it is your responsibility as a driver to know your expiration date and renew on time.

What if My License Has Already Expired?

Driving with an expired license is illegal. If your license has expired, you can still renew it, but you should not drive until you have done so. If your license has been expired for a significant period (typically more than five years), you may be required to re-apply as a new driver, which could include retaking the knowledge, vision, and road tests.

Option 1: Renewing Your License Online

For most Tennesseans, renewing online through the e-Services portal is the quickest and easiest method. It saves you a trip to a Driver Services Center and can be completed from home.

Are You Eligible for Online Renewal?

You can generally renew your Class D driver's license online if:

• You are a U.S. citizen.
• Your last renewal was completed in person. (You cannot renew online two times consecutively).
• You do not need to change your name or other critical information.
• Your license is not suspended, revoked, or canceled.
• You already have a REAL ID-compliant license. If you have a standard license without the gold star, you must visit a center in person to upgrade.

How to Renew Online:

1. Visit the e-Services Portal: Navigate to the official Tennessee Department of Safety e-Services page and select "Renew a Driver License."
2. Enter Your Information: You will need to provide your driver's license number, date of birth, last name, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.
3. Confirm Your Details: The system will show the information on file. You must confirm that all details, including your address, are correct.
4. Pay the Fee: Use a valid credit or debit card to pay the renewal fee.
5. Receive Your License: Your new license will be mailed to your address on file. You should receive it within about 20 business days.

Option 2: Renewing at a Self-Service Kiosk

Located in various Driver Services Centers and county clerk offices, these kiosks offer a great alternative to waiting in line.

How to Renew at a Kiosk:

1. Find a Kiosk: The TN Department of Safety website has a map of all kiosk locations.
2. Scan Your License: Simply scan the barcode on your current license to begin.
3. Follow the Prompts: The touchscreen will guide you through confirming your information and paying the fee with a credit or debit card.
4. Get a Receipt: The kiosk prints a receipt that serves as your temporary license. Your permanent card will be mailed to you.

Option 3: Renewing Your License In Person

If you are not eligible for online renewal—for example, if you need to get your first REAL ID, change your name, or are over a certain age—you must visit a Driver Services Center in person. It is highly recommended to schedule an appointment online to reduce your wait time.

The Vision Test Requirement

A key part of the in-person renewal process is the vision test. All drivers renewing their license in person must pass a vision screening. If you wear glasses or contact lenses to drive, be sure to wear them for the test.

What to Bring for an In-Person Renewal:

• Your current Tennessee Driver's License.
• REAL ID Documents (if applicable): If you are applying for your first REAL ID, you must bring the full set of original documents proving your U.S. citizenship, Social Security number, and two proofs of residency. Refer to our complete REAL ID Document Checklist for details.
• Proof of Address (if you have moved): If your address has changed, you must bring two acceptable documents proving your new residency.
• Payment for Fees: Be prepared to pay the renewal fee. As of early 2024, the fee for an eight-year renewal is typically around $28.00. Fees are subject to change.

The In-Person Process:

1. Schedule an Appointment: Use the e-Services portal to schedule a renewal appointment.
2. Pass the Vision Test: You must pass the vision screening administered by the employee.
3. Get a New Photo: A new photograph will be taken for your updated license.
4. Pay the Fee: Pay the renewal fee with cash, check, or a credit/debit card.
5. Receive Your Temporary Card: You will be given a temporary paper license to use for driving until your permanent card arrives in the mail.

By choosing the right renewal method for your situation and arriving prepared, you can ensure your license stays current with minimal fuss.