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    • Steps so you can ace the Tennessee DMV driver's licence for Cars

    Steps so you can ace the Tennessee DMV driver's licence for Cars

    Step 1
    Read the TN driver’s handbook carefully. Master the rules, drive smart and confidently!
    Read the Handbook
    Step 2
    Know the road signs from Tennessee. Recognize them quickly, and drive with confidence!
    Learn Road Signs
    Step 3
    Go through all the exam questions for CARS, build your skills to pass easily!
    Practice Questions
    Step 4
    Prepare for your DMV TN driving test for cars by taking real exam-style practice tests. Learn the questions and answers, so you feel confident at the knowledge test!
    Solve DMV Practice Tests
    Step 5
    When you think you're ready for the knowledge test, you're not. Ace these DMV tests that include the hardest questions and then you'll know more than 90% of drivers.
    Master the knowledge exam
    Step 6
    Don't stop at driving tests. Learn some tips and tricks so that your knowledge test and car road test doesn't take you by surprise and you would be prepared for anything.
    Q&A before the practice test
    Psychological Preparation
    Q&A before the road test
    Beware during the road test
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    FAQ for future drivers from Tennessee

    1. How old do you have to be to get a CAR driver's licence in Tennessee?

    The process for getting a driver’s license starts early and is gradual:

    1. Learner Permit: At 15 years old, you can apply for a learner permit. This allows you to drive with a licensed driver who is at least 21 sitting in the front seat. You’ll need to pass a written test and a vision screening.
    2. Intermediate Restricted License: At 16 years old, after holding the learner permit for at least 180 days and completing 50 hours of supervised driving (including 10 hours at night), you can get an intermediate restricted license. This allows you to drive unsupervised but with certain restrictions, like no driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless it's for work or school.
    3. Intermediate Unrestricted License: At 17 years old, you can upgrade to an intermediate unrestricted license, which removes the nighttime driving restrictions.
    4. Full Driver’s License: At 18 years old, you’re eligible for a full, unrestricted driver’s license without any limitations.

    This step-by-step process helps teens build their driving skills gradually, ensuring they gain enough experience before driving fully independently.

    2. What documents do you need to apply for a CAR driver's licence in Tennessee?

    To apply for a driver’s license, you’ll need different documents depending on the type of license you’re going for. Here's a simple breakdown:

    Standard Driver’s License (Class D)

    1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence: U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, or immigration documents (like a green card).
    2. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2 form, or a pay stub with your full SSN.
    3. Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency: Documents like a utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement showing your TN address.
    4. Proof of Name Change (if applicable): If your name is different from what's on your birth certificate, bring a marriage certificate, divorce decree, or court order.

    REAL ID

    1. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Lawful Presence: U.S. passport, birth certificate, or lawful immigration status.
    2. Proof of Social Security Number: Social Security card, W-2, or pay stub with SSN.
    3. Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency: Utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement.
    4. Proof of Name Change (if applicable): If your name doesn’t match your identity documents, you’ll need supporting documents like a marriage certificate or court order.

    Exceptions

    • New Residents: If you're new here, you must transfer your out-of-state license within 30 days. You’ll need to bring the same documents listed above.
    • Military Personnel: Active-duty military members and their families may be eligible for license extensions or exemptions.
    • Undocumented Immigrants: Tennessee does not issue standard driver's licenses to undocumented individuals, but they may apply for a driving certificate if they meet specific criteria.

    Make sure to bring original or certified copies of all documents, and double-check with the Tennessee DMV to ensure you have everything you need.

    3. What should i do if i don't pass the practical driving exam from the first try?

    If you don’t pass the road test, you’ll need to wait 7 days before your next attempt. There’s no limit to the number of tries, but make sure you practice thoroughly before going back to take the test again.

    4. What are the restrictions for new drivers in Tennessee?

    Beginner drivers with an intermediate restricted license face a few key restrictions:

    • Curfew: You can’t drive between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless it’s for work, school, or a medical emergency.
    • Passenger limit: No more than one passenger under 21 is allowed unless they’re family or you’re supervised by an adult.
    • Supervision: If you’re driving outside curfew hours, an adult who’s at least 21 must be with you.

    These rules are in place to help new drivers stay safe while getting used to the road.

    5. How long is an Tennessee driver's licence valid for?

    A standard driver's license is valid for 8 years. However, if you are 65 or older, your license will be valid for 5 years.

    To renew your license, you can do so online, by mail, or in person. If you renew in person, you'll need to pass a vision test. If your license has been expired for over 1 year, you will need to visit a DMV office to renew, and you may have to retake a driving test. Be sure to check the Tennessee DMV website for any updates or changes to the renewal process.

    6. Can I drive a CAR in Tennessee with a foreign license?

    Yes, you can drive with a foreign driver's license as a visitor. However, if your license is not in English, it’s recommended to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside it. If you plan to stay longer or become a resident, you'll need to apply for a Tennessee driver's license within 30 days.