Keys2Drive The AAA Guide to Teen Driver Safety
Licensing & State Laws

Licensing & State Laws

Even though your teen is now licensed and driving alone, Tennessee's three-stage licensing process is still at work.

Learner’s Permit

Tennessee State MapAt age 15, teens can apply for a learner’s permit in the state of Tennessee. To do so, both teen and parent must visit their local driver exam office with a state-certified copy of the teen’s birth certificate, Social Security number, proof of Tennessee residency, Minor/Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form and Proof of School Attendance form. Teens must pass a written driver’s knowledge test and a vision test to receive a learner’s permit. Legal guardians must accompany their teens to the driver license station to sign the application form, or their signatures must be notarized on the form.

With a learner’s permit, teens may only drive with a licensed driver age 21 or older supervising and sitting in the front seat. Driver and passengers must wear seat belts. Teens are required to complete 50 hours of practice driving and have a learner’s permit for at least 180 days before they’re allowed an intermediate license.

Intermediate Restricted License

When teens turn 16, have had a learner’s permit for at least 180 days and have completed 50 hours of practice driving, they can apply for this intermediate license. They also must pass a behind-the-wheel driving test, complete a vision test and provide proof of practice driving time. Legal guardians must accompany their teens to the driver license station to sign the application form, or their signature must be notarized on the form.

Teens with an intermediate licenses are allowed to drive alone, but must follow certain restrictions. They may not drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Some exceptions are granted.) They are also prohibited from driving with more than one passenger, unless accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. Teen drivers and all passengers are required to wear safety belts.  

Intermediate Unrestricted License

At age 17, teens are eligible for an intermediate unrestricted license if they have held an intermediate restricted license for one year. The state does not place night or passenger limits on those with unrestricted licenses. However, AAA encourages parents to maintain their own rules.
 

Full License

At age 18, or on graduation from high school or receiving a GED, whichever is sooner, teens may receive a full unrestricted license. The license will still contain “Under 21” age indicators.
 
At all points in the Graduated Driver License process, cell phone use while driving is prohibited. Violations or crashes can cause drivers under age 18 to be sent back to a learner’s permit.
 

Licensing Authority

The Tennessee Department of Safety, through its Driver Services Program, is in charge of licensing for all drivers in Tennessee. The TDOS conducts the written exam and road test needed to get a driver’s license. It also provides study materials to help your teen get ready for the exams.
 
A parent-teen driving agreement can help you enforce the licensing rules that the state and your family set. An agreement helps you and your teen understand the rules of the road and sends a clear message that driving is an earned privilege that your family takes seriously.