Driver’s License for Non-Citizens in Tennessee

1. What are the requirements to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Tennessee?


In order to obtain an instruction permit for driving in Tennessee, applicants must be 15 years old, must have a parental or guardian signature if under 18 years old, must pass the vision screening test, and must pass the written knowledge test. Applicants must also present documents that prove identity, legal presence in the U.S., and history of residential address.

2. Can non-U.S. citizens obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes, non-U.S. citizens can obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee. According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, non-U.S. citizens who are in the country legally are able to apply for a driver’s license or identification card. The applicant must provide valid immigration documents, such as a passport or Permanent Resident Card (green card), and proof of Tennessee residency.

3. What documents are needed to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Tennessee?


In order to apply for a provisional driver’s license in Tennessee, you will need to bring proof of identification (such as a birth certificate or passport), proof of Social Security number (such as a Social Security card), proof of Tennessee residency (such as a utility bill or rental agreement), and proof of legal presence in the US (such as a green card or visa). You may also be required to bring in a School Compliance Verification Form if under 18 years old, a Parent/Guardian certification form if under 18 years old, and a completed driver license application.

4. Is a Social Security Number required to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee?


No, a Social Security Number is not required to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee.

5. What is the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, the minimum age requirement for obtaining a driver’s license is 15 years old.

6. Are there any restrictions on non-citizens obtaining commercial vehicle driver’s licenses in Tennessee?


Yes, non-citizens must meet all of the requirements to obtain a commercial driver’s license in Tennessee. Non-citizens must provide proof of lawful presence in the U.S. and a valid Social Security Number or Tax Identification Number. Non-citizens must also present documents proving their identity, go through a background check, and pass the required medical and knowledge exams in order to be eligible for a CDL in Tennessee.

7. What are the restrictions for non-U.S. citizens driving with a foreign-issued driver’s license in Tennessee?


Non-U.S. citizens are allowed to drive in Tennessee with a valid foreign-issued driver’s license as long as they are at least 18 years of age and have legally entered the United States. The foreign driver’s license must be valid, and it must be in the driver’s possession while driving. Tennessee does not recognize any International Driver’s Permits.

Drivers with a foreign-issued driver’s license must also obey all applicable rules of the road, carry liability insurance, and pass a Tennessee Department of Safety driving test if required.

8. What type of proof of identity is needed to get a driver’s license in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, individuals must present one proof of identity to obtain a driver’s license. Acceptable forms of identity include a valid, unexpired U.S. passport or passport card, a valid, unexpired foreign passport with a valid visa and corresponding I-94, a certified copy of a birth certificate issued by a state, county, municipal authority or outlying possession of the U.S., a valid, unexpired Permanent Resident Card, or an approved immigration document issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

9. How long do non-citizens need to be residents of Tennessee before being able to apply for a driver’s license?


Non-citizens must have been a resident of Tennessee for at least one year before they can apply for a driver’s license.

10. Are there any additional requirements for non-citizens seeking to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes, non-citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the United States in order to obtain or renew a driver’s license in Tennessee. Acceptable documents include a valid passport, visa, resident alien card, or foreign driver’s license.

11. Which type of tests are required to be taken by non-citizens to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee must take the same tests as citizens, including a written knowledge test, a driving knowledge test, and a road skills test.

12. Do non-U.S. citizens need to provide proof of residency for obtaining a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes, all applicants must provide proof of Tennessee residency in order to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee. Non-U.S. citizens must provide proof of legal presence in the U.S., such as an unexpired foreign passport with appropriate visa or an immigration document, such as an I-94 form.

13. Is there an additional fee for non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes. Non-citizens who are applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee must pay an additional fee of $10.00.

14. Is it possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Tennessee?


Yes, it is possible for non-U.S. citizens to convert their foreign driver’s license into an American one in Tennessee. The process involves passing a vision test, a written test, and a road skills test, as well as providing proof of identity and proof of legal presence in the US.

15. What do non-citizens need to bring with them to the DMV when applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Non-citizens applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee need to bring proof of identity, proof of Tennessee residence, and proof of legal presence in the U.S. The required documents depend on your immigration status and can include a valid passport, valid visa, Form I-797, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), Social Security card, and an unexpired foreign driver’s license.

16. How much does it cost for a non-citizen to obtain a driver’s license in Tennessee?


A driver’s license in Tennessee costs $25.50 for a six year license, or $34 for an eight year license, for non-citizens who have been in the United States for fewer than 3 years. Applicants must also present proof of identity, proof of Tennessee residency and be at least 18 years of age.

17. Are there any special laws that apply to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses while operating motor vehicles in Tennessee?


Yes. Tennessee has a law that applies to drivers holding foreign driver’s licenses, known as the Foreign Driver’s License Validation Law. The law requires visitors from certain countries to obtain a validated Tennessee driver’s license before they can legally drive in the state. The validation must be obtained at a Driver Services Center, and the visitor must bring a valid foreign license and valid proof of identity. The list of countries included in this law can be found in Tenn. Code Ann. § 55-50-502.

18. Can non-citizens obtain an international driving permit while residing in Tennessee?


Yes, it is possible for non-citizens to obtain an international driving permit while residing in Tennessee. To do so, they must submit an application to the American Automobile Association (AAA) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Applicants must provide a valid driver’s license, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee of $20.

19. Does Tennessee recognize foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes?


Yes, Tennessee recognizes foreign driver’s licenses as valid forms of identification for licensing purposes. However, visitors may be required to provide additional documents, such as a passport or visa, in addition to the foreign driver’s license. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security has more information on what documents are required for a driver’s license.

20. Are there any special requirements for renewing a non-citizen’s driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes. Non-citizens must present documentation of their legal presence in the US when renewing their driver’s license in Tennessee. This includes a valid Permanent Resident Card, Employment Authorization Card, or other proof of legal presence.