How to Renew a Driver’s License

Renewing your driver’s license in Tennessee is crucial to ensure your continued ability to legally operate a vehicle. This guide will walk you through renewing your driver’s license in Tennessee and highlight the importance of keeping your license current.

Why Do You Have to Renew A Driver’s License in Tennessee?

Renewing your license in Tennessee is necessary to ensure that you continue to meet the state’s requirements for safe and responsible driving. It allows the Tennessee Department of Motor Vehicles, or the DMV, to verify that you’re still eligible to operate a vehicle.

Expiration Date

The expiration date of your driver’s license in Tennessee can be found printed on the front of your license car. It is essential to be aware of this date as it will indicate to you when your license will no longer be valid.

Renewal Notice

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security typically sends out renewal notices to drivers several weeks before their license is set to expire. These notices serve as highly important reminders.

When To Renew

In Tennessee, the guidelines for renewing a driver’s license vary depending on your license type. For drivers under the age of 21, the license expires on their 21st birthday.

For drivers older than 21 years old, the license expires every five years. It’s recommended, therefore, to renew your license a few weeks or even a few months before the expiration date passes.

You can find more information about when your license is going to be explored at the official website of the Tennessee DMV.

If the License is Already Expired

Allowing your license to expire can lead to various complications and should be avoided. For instance, when your license is expired, you can face various legal consequences.

Plus, it may invalidate your car insurance coverage, leaving you financially vulnerable in the event of an accident.

To renew an expired driver’s license, visit a Tennessee DMV office in person. It’s recommended to check the official Tennessee DMV website for more information.

How to Renew a Driver’s License

Renewing your license in Tennessee can be done through various methods, these include online, in person, or by mail.

Renewing Online

• Requirements: A valid Tennessee driver’s license, to be a U.S. citizen, and to meet a few other eligibility requirements.
• Paperwork: Current license information, personal details, and payment information.
• Cost: $28 with a late fee for being over 30 days past the expiration date.
• Method: Visit the Tennessee DMV website
• Deadlines: Renew within six months of the expiration date
• Benefits: Saves time and allows you to stay home.

Renewal by Mail

• Requirements: A valid Tennessee driver’s license, to be a U.S. citizen, and to meet a few other eligibility requirements.
• Paperwork: Current license information, personal details, and payment information, as well as any paper forms.
• Cost: $28 with a late fee if applicable.
• Method: Mail all information, payment, and forms to the Tennessee
• Deadlines: Renew within six months of the expiration date
• Benefits: Affordable and gives you time to fill out the forms.

Renewal In-person

• Requirements: A valid Tennessee driver’s license, to be a U.S. citizen, and to meet a few other eligibility requirements. Often need an appointment ahead of time.
• Paperwork: Current license information, personal details, and payment information.
• Cost: $28 with a late fee for being over 30 days past the expiration date.
• Method: Visit Tennessee DMV in person
• Deadlines: Renew within six months of the expiration date
• Benefits: Face-to-face communication helps with any issues.

Military Member License Renewal

• Requirements: For a person on active military duty based outside of Tennessee, the license is not canceled or suspended.
• Paperwork: Current license information, personal details, military ID and documents, and payment information.
• Cost: $28 with a late fee for being over 30 days past the expiration date.
• Method: Visit the Tennessee DMV website or visit in person.
• Deadlines: 6 months of the license expiration date
• Benefits: Special provisions accommodate military members

Renewing a License as a Non-U.S. Citizen

• Requirements: A valid Tennessee driver’s license, proof of residence, proof of legal presence, and a few other eligibility requirements.
• Paperwork: Current license information, personal and immigration details, and payment information.
• Cost: $28 with a late fee for being over 30 days past the expiration date.
• Method: Visit a Tennessee DMV office in person to submit your renewal application and necessary documents.
• Deadlines: Renew within six months
• Benefits: Maintaining a valid license and continuing driving in Tennessee

How Long Does It Take to Get a Replacement Driver’s License?

Online: The confirmation is instant, but it will still take a few weeks to get your license.

By Mail: 4-6 weeks from the time you send out your information

In-person: You will get a temporary license immediately but still need to wait for the real one.

Is There a Grace Period for an Expired Driver’s License?

If your license is expired, you’ll need to pay a $5 fee if it’s over 10 days late and $10 if it’s over 6 months late. So, you have about 9 days from your date of expiration to avoid paying a fee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few frequently asked questions about renewing your license.

What do I need to bring to the DMV to renew my license?

You need to bring your current license, necessary alternative identification, proof of residency, and payment.

What are two proofs of Tennessee residency?

Applicable proofs of residency include insurance, mortgage documents, utility bills, lease and rental agreements, bank statements, and more.

What is the deadline for a REAL ID driver’s license?

The deadline for the REAL ID driver’s license is May 7th, 2025.

Conclusion

In conclusion, renewing your license is essential to maintaining your driving privileges and complying with state requirements. Whether you choose to renew online, in person, or by mail, make sure you do so before your license expires.