Getting a Tennessee Learner’s Permit: Requirements and Restrictions

Are you looking to get your Tennessee learner’s permit? If so, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll go through all the details you need to know to make the process as simple as possible.

How to Get a Tennessee Learner’s Permit

You must be at least 15 years old in order to apply for a drivers permit in Tennessee – but that’s just the first of many requirements. You will need to complete all of the following steps:

1. Apply at the Driver Service Center

Like all things related to driver licenses, you will need to visit and apply for your learner’s permit at your local Tennessee driver services center. You are allowed to visit any location statewide. A parent or legal guardian will need to accompany you in order to complete your application.

2. Bring the Necessary Documents

At the service center, you will need to provide proof of the following:

• Proof of Name
• Proof of Birthdate
• Birth Certificate
• Proof of Citizenship
• Proof of School Attendance
• A parent or legal guardian will need to sign a Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form.

3. Take the Vision Exam

You will need to pass the vision exam with at least a 20/40 score in one eye.

4. Pass the Knowledge Test

The knowledge exam is one of the hardest aspects of obtaining your Tennessee driver’s permit. It is filled with 30 questions testing your knowledge of core driving topics as well as road signs. You will need to answer 24 correctly for a passing score of 80%.

Need help passing your exam? We have made learning the rules of the road fun with our gamified platform, summarized Driver’s Handbook, and Tennessee permit practice tests. Join over 250,000 students studying with us to pass their tests each month. 

5. Pay the Required Fee

At the time of writing, the Tennessee permit fee is $10.50 payable by check, money order, cash, or credit and debit card. Your permit will be valid for one year.

Learners Permit Rules & Restrictions

The state of Tennessee imposes stringent restrictions on all permit holders. 

• You must be with a licensed driver 21 or older in the front seat at all times
• You cannot drive between the hours of 10 PM and 6 AM
• Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers

Requirements to Progress to an Intermediate License

You must practice 50 hours of behind-the-wheel driving, including 10 hours at night, before you can take the road skills test.

You can receive your intermediate restricted license at age 16. You must have had your permit for at least 180 days.

That’s It!

That’s everything you need to know about getting your learner’s permit in the state of Tennessee. If you need any help studying for your upcoming knowledge or driving exams, then Zutobi is the perfect study resource with a summarized handbook, Tennessee practice tests, and a gamified learning experience.