Tennessee Driver License Requirements at-a-glance:

DMV Info
  • Minimum Age for Learner Permit 15 years for a learner’s permit (or 14 yrs for a hardship permit).
  • Learner Permit Holding Period 180 days
  • Minimum Age for Driver License 16 years
  • Road Test Yes
  • Minimum Amount of Supervised Driving 50 hours, including 10 hours at night. Your parent/guardian must sign the verification form stating that you’ve completed these driving practice hours
  • Unsupervised Driving Rules Intermediate restricted license holders may not drive unsupervised between 11pm and 6am unless driving to/from work or school (you must have a parents’ note) or driving to/from a hunting/fishing activity between 4am and 6am (you must have a valid hunting/fishing license). Also, you cannot drive unsupervised at any time if you are carrying two (2) or more passengers (see “Passenger Rules”)
  • Passenger Rules Intermediate restricted license holders may only carry one (1) passenger. If carrying 2 or more passengers, a QSD must be in the vehicle. The only exception is if you are driving household members to or from school (if so, you must have your parents’ written permission with you).
  • Other Hardship licenses may be issued to qualifying applicants at age 14

How to get your Tennessee Driver License step-by-step:

  • Practice for the written Learner Permit Exam using our free practice tests
  • Find a driver license office and schedule an appointment for the written exam (you may also simply show up but you may have to wait some time)
  • Take the Learner Permit Written Exam
  • Practice driving with your learner permit
  • Take driving exam