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How to get a driver's license in Tennessee as an immigrant

Everything a new arrival in Tennessee needs to know, from driving on a foreign license to the documents the DMV accepts from non-citizens. Facts are quoted from official sources.

Quick answers

Drive on a foreign license?
Non-residents with a valid license from their home state or country in their possession may drive in Tennessee.
Deadline after moving
30 days after establishing residency
License exchange without tests
Not stated in official sources
License without immigration status
No
No SSN?
Provide your Social Security Number; a sworn affidavit signed before an examiner or notary is the alternative.

Driving on a foreign license

Non-residents with a valid license from their home state or country in their possession may drive in Tennessee. Deadline after moving: 30 days after establishing residency.

If your country is not on the list

New residents from other countries take the vision screening, Tennessee knowledge test and road skills test; they may keep their foreign license.

New residents from other countries must take the vision screening, Tennessee knowledge test and road skills test. www.tn.gov

Documents for non-citizens

Examples of accepted immigration documents:

  • Permanent Resident Card (I-551)
  • Re-entry Permit (I-327)
  • Employment Authorization Card (I-766)
  • Foreign passport with English translation and U.S. immigration documents

License validity: Temporary (Class XD) license and XPD permit are issued for the duration of authorized stay.

persons whose presence in the United States has been authorized by the federal government www.tn.gov

Social Security number

Provide your Social Security Number; a sworn affidavit signed before an examiner or notary is the alternative.

Applicant must furnish their Social Security Number. www.tn.gov

Proof of residency

Two proofs of Tennessee residency with name and address (two from List A, or one from List A and one from List B), originals only.

Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency with your name and resident address tn.gov

Step by step

  1. Gather originals: lawful status documents, SSN proof, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
  2. Go to a full-service Driver Services Center (appointment recommended).
  3. Pass the vision screening and Tennessee knowledge test to get an Adult Learner Permit (temporary XPD for non-permanent residents).
  4. Practice driving with a licensed driver age 21 or older.
  5. Take the road skills test, accompanied by a licensed driver 21 or older.
  6. Pay the fee and receive your Class D (or temporary Class XD) license.

Fees

Class D license $28; temporary Class XD $28; adult learner permit $5.50 (XPD $28). County clerks add $4.

XD-Operator | $26.00 | Duration of Stay | $26.00 | $2.00 | $28.00 www.tn.gov

Prepare for the knowledge test

Checked against official sources on October 27, 2026. Rules change: confirm with the DMV before your visit. This is not legal advice.