How to Get Your Driver's License in Tennessee
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in Tennessee. Tennessee uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 17.
GDL Stages in Tennessee
Learner's Permit
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older
Intermediate Restricted License
Requirements
- Hold learner's permit for at least 180 days
- Complete 50 hours supervised driving including 10 at night
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger who is not family
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Hold intermediate license for at least 12 months
- Clean driving record
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed at any time during the intermediate phase.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift after 12 months with a clean record or at age 18.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to intermediate license restrictions and may apply directly for a full license.
Tennessee-Specific Information
Tennessee requires proof of school enrollment or graduation to obtain a learner's permit or intermediate license. The state revokes the license of any minor who drops out of school, a provision not found in most states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 17 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in Tennessee.
Tennessee uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit, Intermediate Restricted License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 non-family passenger is allowed at any time during the intermediate phase.
Adults age 18 and older in Tennessee can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. Drivers 18 and older are not subject to intermediate license restrictions and may apply directly for a full license.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
Tennessee learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in Tennessee.
Tennessee drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website for the most current information.