How to get a Tennessee Learners Permit

Are you a first time driver? Then getting that learners permit can be exciting and daunting at the same time. This article will take you through the steps to get your Tennessee learners permit online with an extra emphasis on safe teen driving.

The Rules

Under Tennessee DMV guidelines, you must wait until your 15th birthday before you can apply for a Learners Permit. 

All applicants are required pass a written exam and a vision test in order to obtain the permit. You then must hold the learners permit for 180 days from the issue date, be at least 16 years old and have logged 50 hours of driving time (including a minimum of 10 hours of driving at night) prior to applying for a driver license.

Prepare for the Written Exam

The Tennessee DMV requires that all applicants must pass a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
If you fail the exam, you most states require you to wait until at least the next day to take the test again and charge a re-examination fee.

All new drivers are encouraged to study for this written test so you don't take a chance on standing in line at the DMV Office only to go home empty-handed. Online practice tests are available that provide real sample questions from the DMV Exam - Take the Tennessee practice permit test now and test your driving knowledge.

Paperwork

Before you head to the Texas DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your learners permit:

• Proof of your age and identity
• Proof of any name changes since birth certificate (i.e. if married bring certified marriage certificate, etc.)
• Social Security number if one has been assigned, or Affidavit affirming that no SSN ever issued.
• Two (2) Proofs of Tennessee Residency
• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or Legal Presence
• Parent to sign Minor/ Teenage Affidavit form and agree to financial responsibility law related to the issuance of the learner permit or license.
• Proof of School Attendance (Please see page 16 of the driver license handbook for further explanation.)
• Comply with Graduated Driver License Procedures.

On the Road

When you first receive your Tennessee learners permit, you are allowed to practice between the hours of 6:00am - 10:00pm with a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and in the seat next to you.

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