Driver License Information
Regular Driver License (Class D)
A Regular Driver License or Class D License is required to operate a passenger vehicle. Most applicants for a Tennessee driver license will need a Regular Driver License.
Learn more about the Regular Driver License
Teen/Graduated Driver License (GDL ) - Learner Permit
Tennessee’s tiered Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program is designed to help new, young drivers develop their driving skills as they ease into their driving privileges.
To earn the GDL Level 1 - Learner Permit, drivers must be 15 years old and pass the standard written and visual exams. Drivers must hold a Learner Permit for 180 days before they can advance to the GDL Level II - Intermediate Restricted License.
To drive with a GDL Level 1 - Learner Permit, you must have a licensed driver 21 years of age or older in the front seat and you may not drive between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Learn more about the GDL Level 1 – Learner Permit
Teen/Graduated Driver License (GDL ) - Intermediate Restricted License
Tennessee’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program is a multi-tiered program designed to help new, young drivers develop their driving skills as they ease into their driving privileges.
To earn the GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License, drivers must be 16 years old and pass the road skills test. Drivers must have held a GDL Level 1 – Learner Permit for 180 days before they can advance to the GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License. Drivers cannot have more than six points on their record during the immediate 180 days preceding their application. A parent, legal guardian or driving instructor must
also verify that the driver has 50 hours (10 hours at night) of driving experience.
To drive with a GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License, you may only have one passenger in the car with you and you may not drive between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Learn more about the GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License
Teen/Graduated Driver License (GDL ) - Intermediate Unrestricted License
Tennessee’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program is a multi-tiered program designed to help new, young drivers develop their driving skills as they ease into their driving privileges.
To earn the GDL Level 3 - Intermediate Unrestricted License, drivers must be 17 years old and must have held a GDL Level 2 - Intermediate Restricted License for one year. Drivers cannot have accumulated more than six points on their driving record or two seatbelt violations.
Learn more about the GDL Level 3 - Intermediate Unrestricted License
Hardship Driver License (Class H or XH)
A hardship license (Class H) may be issued to a minor who is 14 years old to operate either a Class D passenger vehicle or Class M motorcycle or both. This license is only issued in cases of family hardship and are limited to specific needs.
Learn more about the Hardship Driver License
Temporary Driver License (Class XD, XM or Permit)
The Temporary Driver License is issued to persons whose presence in the United States has been authorized by the federal government for a specific purpose and for a specific period of time. Qualifying applicants will be issued a photo license document valid for both driving and identification purposes.
Learn more about the Temporary Driver License
Commercial Driver License (CDL)
A commercial driver's license (CDL) is required to operate any vehicle weighing more than 26,001 pounds, that can transport more than fifteen (15) passengers including the driver, is used as a school bus, or carries hazardous materials.
Learn more about the Commercial Driver License
Motorcycle License (Class M)
A motorcycle license or Class M license is necessary for drivers, 16 years old and older, to operate two or three-wheeled vehicles over 50cc including,
motorcycles and scooters.
Learn more about the Motorcycle License
Identification (ID Only) License
ID Only Licenses are not valid for the operation of a vehicle.
No testing is required to receive an ID Only License. ID Only License applicants must meet the same standards for proof of identity, legal presence and residency as required for any driver license.
Tennessee families with children, including infants, may obtain ID Only Licenses for their children. Children must meet all documentation requirements.