Losing your wallet is stressful, but replacing your Tennessee driver’s license doesn’t have to be.
In 2026, most drivers can order a replacement card online in under 5 minutes. However, if you need to drive today—for example, to rent a car or board a flight—you cannot wait for the mail. You must visit a center to get a paper “Interim License.”
This guide covers the instant online method, the fees (starting at $8), and the special rules for CDL holders.
Method 1: Replace Your Tennessee Driver’s License Online (Fastest Way, 15–20 Day Mail Delivery)
Best For: Drivers who can wait 15–20 days for the new card to arrive.
If your photo is on file and your license is not suspended, you can order a duplicate immediately.
- Visit the Portal: Go to the Tennessee Driver Services e-Services.
- Log In: Enter your Last Name, Date of Birth, Driver License Number, and SSN.
- Select Service: Click on “Duplicate a License” (Do not click Renew unless your license expires within 12 months).
- Verify Address: Ensure your mailing address is correct.
- Moved? If your address has changed, you must update it before ordering the duplicate. Use our Tennessee DMV address change guide first, or your license will be mailed to the wrong house.
- Pay the Fee: Use a credit or debit card.
- Print Receipt: This receipt acts as proof of application, but it is not a valid license for driving.
Method 2: Replace Your License In Person in Tennessee (Get an Interim Paper License the Same Day)
Best For: Drivers who lost their license and need to drive immediately.
When you replace your license in person, the examiner hands you a Paper Interim License. This document is legally valid for driving and acts as your ID while you wait for the plastic card to be printed and mailed.
- Book an Appointment: Walk-ins often face 2-hour wait times. We strongly recommend booking a DMV Tennessee appointment at a self-service kiosk or counter.
- Bring Proof: Since you lost your ID, you must prove who you are. Bring:
- Proof of Citizenship (Birth Certificate or Passport).
- Two Proofs of Residency (Utility bill, Lease).
- Pay the Fee: You can pay by cash or card at the counter.
Tennessee Driver’s License Replacement Fees
Tennessee charges different rates depending on how many times you have lost your card during the current renewal cycle.
| License Type | First Duplicate | Subsequent Duplicates |
| Regular Class D | $8.00 | $12.00 |
| Commercial (CDL) | $12.00 | $16.00 |
| ID Only | $12.00 | $12.00 |
| Temporary (Class XD) | $19.50 | $19.50 |
CDL Duplicate License Rules in Tennessee: Medical Card Requirements and Downgrade Risks
If you hold a Class A, B, or C license, the rules are stricter.
Online Replacement: You can only replace a CDL online IF your DOT Medical Card is current on file.
- If your medical card has expired (or is not on file), the system will block you. You must visit a Driver Services Center to present your new valid medical certificate before you can get a duplicate.
In-Person Replacement: Bring your valid Medical Examiner’s Certificate (DOT Card) with you. Without it, the state may downgrade you to a regular Class D license on the spot.
What if My License Was Stolen?
If your license was stolen along with other sensitive documents (like your Social Security Card), you should file a Police Report.
- Why? While the DMV doesn’t require a police report to issue a duplicate, having one protects you if someone tries to use your old ID for identity theft.
Suspension Check: Sometimes, a lost license is actually a suspended license. If the online portal says you are “Not Eligible,” check your status immediately using our check points on driver license in TN guide. You cannot get a duplicate until you reinstate a suspended license in TN.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you apply online, the receipt is generally not considered a valid license for driving by law enforcement. If you apply in-person, the “Interim Paper License” is valid for driving.
You can order it online and have it mailed to your temporary out-of-state address. When prompted on the e-Services portal, enter a “Mailing Address” different from your “Residential Address.”
No. If you are within 12 months of expiration, you should Renew instead of Replace. The fee is higher (approx $28), but you get a fresh 8-year valid period.
A duplicate is a copy of a valid license. A Hardship License is a restricted license for minors facing family emergencies. If you are under 18 and lost your Hardship License, the replacement fee is $9.00. (See our hardship license in Tennessee guide for details).
Add Comment