How to Get Your Tennessee Learner's Permit (TDOSHS Driver Services Guide)

To get a Learner Permit (GDL Level I) in Tennessee, you must be at least 15 and apply in person at the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver Services Division (TDOSHS Driver Services). Applicants under 18 generally need a parent or guardian to sign, and many states also require enrollment in or completion of a driver-education course.

Tennessee's knowledge exam covers traffic laws, road signs, and safe driving from the Tennessee Comprehensive Driver License Manual. Teens move through learner, intermediate restricted, and full licenses under graduated licensing.

Bring original or certified documents (not photocopies) that establish:

• Proof of identity and U.S. citizenship or lawful presence (one document): an official U.S. birth certificate, valid U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or, for non-citizens, a Permanent Resident Card (I-551) or a valid foreign passport with a valid visa and I-94.
• Proof of Social Security number (one document): your Social Security card, a W-2 or 1099 issued within the last 12 months, a payroll stub, or a sworn affidavit if you have never been issued an SSN.
• Two proofs of Tennessee residency dated within the last four months, such as a utility bill, current bank statement, employer letter on company letterhead, insurance policy, voter registration card, or vehicle registration.
• Parental consent for applicants under 18: a parent or legal guardian must appear and sign the minor/teen affidavit, plus proof of guardianship (marriage certificate, adoption or custody papers) if the last names differ.
• Proof of school compliance for applicants under 18: documentation of current enrollment and satisfactory progress at a Tennessee school, or a signed letter from the principal or guidance counselor of a previous out-of-state school dated within 30 days.

In Tennessee, the knowledge test can be taken online (as well as in person). A 30-question multiple-choice knowledge exam with a 60-minute time limit requiring at least 80% to pass, along with a vision screening; teens ages 15 to 17 may take the knowledge test online through a parent- or guardian-proctored session.

The TDOSHS Driver Services charges $10.50 for applicants under 18 ($5.50 for age 18 and over); an additional $4.00 fee applies at County Clerk partner locations. for the permit. Amounts can change and sometimes include separate knowledge-test or service fees, so verify the current cost with the TDOSHS Driver Services before you visit.

Tennessee uses a Graduated Driver License program for drivers under 18: the Level I Learner Permit is available at age 15 and requires supervision by a licensed driver 21 or older, prohibits driving between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., and must be held at least 180 days before advancing to the Intermediate Restricted License.