Office of Licensure

The DDA Office of Licensure functions to protect the interest of tax-paying citizens against unlicensed service providers, unsafe environments, inadequate education and training of personnel, physical and mental abuse and any unscrupulous acts deemed detrimental to the treatment and general welfare of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This also includes those in need of personal support services.

Operating out of three regional offices -one in each grand region of the state, licensure staff:

  • Conduct unannounced inspections and follow-up inspections of licensed sites
  • Compile the supporting documents needed to issue licenses
  • Ensure reports of wrong-doing and/or deficiency in operation of a facility or service are investigated (scrutinized or examined). Maintain current files and appropriate records for all sites and services licensed by the department
  • Provide consultation and technical assistance as needed to licensed and proposed programs

Please email DDA.Licensing@tn.gov to:

  • Report suspected violations of licensure rules
  • Submit formal or general complaints about any licensed service or facility
  • Request information or ask general questions

Licensure & Review Resources

Applications Process

We are currently experiencing a high volume of both Initial and Renewal applications. We remain committed to processing all applications as efficiently as possible. Submitting complete documentation promptly is the best way to keep your application moving forward smoothly.

New Provider Applicant: An applicant that is not currently licensed with DDA.

The applicant must complete the Initial Application Packet.

To help ensure a fair and efficient review process, please keep the following in mind:

  • Initial applications are reviewed in the order they become complete. An application is considered complete only when all required documents have been submitted.
  • Processing timelines for Initial licenses may take at least six months due to the high volume of applications.
  • Delays in submitting requested documents will extend your processing time. If items are submitted late or in pieces, your application may be placed behind those that are already complete.
  • We understand the urgency many providers feel and appreciate your patience as surveyors work diligently to keep the process moving.
  • Please review available guidance resources before emailing questions. If you still need clarification, you may contact DDA.Licensing@tn.gov. Also check the Become a Credentialed Provider website to ensure your inquiry is directed to the correct team.

 

Initial Application Packet: 

1. DDA Licensure Initial Application 

2. DDA Licensure Financial Statement Form

3. DDA Licensure Board of Directors - Advisory Board Form 

4. DDA Licensure Fact Sheets, may select one or both depending on licensing needs:

Existing Provider Applicant: an applicant that currently with DDA.

NOTE: Any changes to your current license, location, operations need to be brought to the attention of DDA Licensure prior to implementation.

  • To renew your existing license(s), a renewal application packet must be completed.
  • To add a licensed site, an initial application packet must be completed.
  • To report a major change in use or occupancy of a currently licensed facility or service, an initial application packet must be completed.
  • To report a planned change in ownership, an initial application packet must be completed.
  • To report on a planned relocation of a currently licensed facility or service, an initial application packet must be completed.
  • To close a licensed site, DDA Licensure Change of Status Form must be completed.
  • To add a licensed service to an existing business office site, DDA Licensure Fact Sheet - Business Office with Services must be completed.


Renewal Application Packet: 

1.      DDA Licensure Renewal Application

2.      DDA Licensure Financial Statement Form

3.      DDA Licensure Board of Directors - Advisory Board Form

4.      DDA Licensure Attestation Form

 

Change of Status: a form used to report or request a change in the status of a previously submitted initial application or the conditions of a current license.

A  DDA Licensure Change of Status Form is required if:

  • Request for approval of change to affect current Life Safety occupancy classification (i.e. hearing loss, vision impairment, mobility, etc.)
  • Change in agency name ONLY of the current license
  • Change in the site name of a facility/service
  • Change in Chief Executive Officer or Director
  • Request for change in current licensed capacity
  • Notice of voluntary closure of facility or service