Learner’s Permit Restrictions and Regulations in Tennessee

1. What is the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, the minimum age to apply for a learner’s permit is 15 years old.

2. How many hours of supervised driving must be completed before applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving must be completed before applying for a driver’s license. This includes 10 hours of driving at night.

3. Does Tennessee require a vision test for a learner’s permit?


Yes, Tennessee requires a vision test for a learner’s permit.

4. How long is a learner’s permit valid for in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, a learner’s permit is valid for a total of one year.

5. Are there any restrictions on nighttime driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, drivers who hold a learner’s permit in Tennessee are restricted from nighttime driving from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. unless accompanied by a licensed driver over 21 years of age.

6. Are there any limitations on passengers when driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, when driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee, all passengers must be either the permit holder’s immediate family members or an adult 25 years or older who holds a valid license. Additionally, all passengers must wear their seatbelts at all times.

7. What documents must be presented to apply for a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


In order to apply for a learner’s permit in Tennessee, applicants must present two proofs of Tennessee residency, proof of identity—such as a birth certificate or valid passport—and proof of Social Security number—such as a Social Security card or pay stub. Applicants must also pass the vision and knowledge tests in order to receive the permit.

8. Is there an additional fee for a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, there is an additional fee for a learner’s permit in Tennessee. The fee is $10.20.

9. What is the process to renew a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


In order to renew a learner’s permit in Tennessee, the process is as follows:

1. Visit any Driver Services Center with your valid permit and proof of identity.
2. Complete and sign the renewal application form.
3. Have your vision and knowledge tests administered if you are age 16 or older.
4. Pay the renewal fee.
5. Receive your renewed learner’s permit.

10. What are the requirements for taking the written exam when applying for a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


In order to take the written exam when applying for a learner’s permit in Tennessee, applicants must be 15 years of age or older, provide proof of identity and residency, provide a Social Security number, and have a parent or legal guardian present to sign the application. Applicants must also have a photocopy of their birth certificate or other proof of identity. In addition, applicants must pass an eye exam and complete the instructional permit application form.

11. Are there any restrictions on cell phone use while driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, in Tennessee a driver with a learner’s permit is prohibited from using a cell phone while driving, except to make an emergency call. Additionally, the driver must be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has held a license for at least one year.

12. Are there any restrictions on seatbelt usage while driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, all occupants in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt regardless of age.

13. How long is an applicant required to hold a learner’s permit before applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee?


In Tennessee, applicants must hold a learner’s permit for at least six months before applying for a driver’s license.

14. Does Tennessee offer any type of driver education courses to help applicants prepare for a learner’s permit exam?


Yes, Tennessee offers driver education courses to help applicants prepare for a learner’s permit exam. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security offers online driver education courses as well as in-person driver education courses through approved providers.

15. What are the rules regarding the use of alcohol and other drugs while driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


According to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, it is illegal for any person with a learner’s permit to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or any controlled substance in Tennessee. If a driver is found to be operating a vehicle while under the influence, they may face criminal charges and their permit may be revoked or suspended. It is also illegal for any person with a learner’s permit to have an open container of alcohol in the vehicle. Additionally, anyone under 21 years of age is forbidden from purchasing, possessing or consuming alcohol.

16. Does Tennessee require applicants to take an actual driving test before being issued a driver’s license?


Yes, Tennessee requires applicants to take a driving test before being issued a driver’s license.

17. Is insurance required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


No, insurance is not required to obtain or renew a learner’s permit in Tennessee.

18. Are there any special requirements when applying for a learner’s permit if the applicant is under 18 years old in Tennessee?


Yes. If the applicant is under 18 years old in Tennessee, they must complete an approved driver education course, provide a certificate of completion from the course, and present proof of identity and Tennessee residency (such as a birth certificate, passport, school identification, or valid work permit). Additionally, a parent or legal guardian must sign the application and provide proof of their identity and relationship to the applicant.

19. Is formal driver training required before applying for a driver’s license in Tennessee?


Yes. All drivers applying for a license in Tennessee must take a state-approved driver education course before applying for a license.

20. Is there an age restriction on digital device use while driving with a learner’s permit in Tennessee?


Yes, in Tennessee it is illegal for drivers with a learner’s permit to use any type of digital device while driving. The only exceptions are for making an emergency phone call or if the vehicle is stopped and in neutral or park.