Tennessee requires you to notify the Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 30 days of moving

You must report an address change to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) within 30 days of moving to a new residence. This is a legal requirement, not optional. Tennessee does not automatically update your license when you move — you have to initiate the change yourself, either online, by mail, or in person at a Driver Services office.

The method you choose depends on whether you need a new physical license card and how quickly you need the change recorded. If your license is not expiring soon and you only need the address updated in the system, you can do this without getting a replacement card. If you want a new card with your current address printed on it, you will need to pay a replacement fee.

Key Takeaways

  • You have 30 days from your move date to report your new address to TDOSHS, or you risk a citation.
  • Online address changes through the TDOSHS website are free and take effect when ready in the system, but your physical card still shows the old address.
  • A replacement license card with your new address costs $27 and takes 7 to 10 business days to arrive by mail.
  • You can change your address in person at any Driver Services office without an appointment, though wait times vary by location.
  • If you move out of state, your Tennessee license remains valid, but you should update your address if you plan to return or maintain Tennessee residency.

Online address change (free, no new card)

The fastest and cheapest option is to change your address online through the TDOSHS website at tn.gov/safety. Go to the Driver Services section and select "Change Address Online." You will need your Tennessee driver's license number, Social Security number, and date of birth to log in.

Enter your new address and submit. The change takes effect in the TDOSHS database when ready. Law enforcement can see your updated address when they run your license. However, your physical license card will still display your old address until it expires or you request a replacement. This method is free and satisfies the 30-day reporting requirement.

The online system works only if your license is current and not suspended or revoked. If your license status is not clear, you will need to visit a Driver Services office or call 615-251-8590 to confirm before attempting the online change.

Replacement license card with new address ($27)

If you want a new physical card printed with your current address, you must request a replacement license. The fee is $27, and the card is mailed to you within 7 to 10 business days. You can request a replacement online, by mail, or in person.

Online replacement: Visit tn.gov/safety, select "Order Replacement License," and pay the $27 fee by credit or debit card. You will receive a confirmation number. Your new card will be mailed to the address you provide during the order.

By mail: Complete Form DL 44 (process for Replacement License), include a check or money order for $27 payable to "State of Tennessee," and mail to: Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Driver Services, 1150 Foster Avenue, Nashville, TN 37210. Include a note with your new address. Processing takes 10 to 14 business days from receipt.

In person: Visit any Driver Services office with your current license and proof of your new address (utility bill, lease, or mortgage statement dated within 60 days). Pay $27 and receive your new card by mail within 7 to 10 business days.

In-person address change at a Driver Services office

You can walk into any Tennessee Driver Services office and change your address without an appointment. Bring your current driver's license and one document proving your new address: a utility bill, lease agreement, mortgage statement, bank statement, or government mail dated within 60 days of your visit.

The staff will update your address in the system at no cost. If you also want a replacement card with your new address printed on it, pay $27 at that time. The card will be mailed to you in 7 to 10 business days. If you only update the address without ordering a replacement card, the change is complete when ready, and your old card remains valid.

Wait times at Driver Services offices vary widely. Urban locations like Nashville and Memphis often have 30-minute to 2-hour waits during peak hours (late morning and early afternoon on weekdays). Rural offices typically have shorter waits. You can check current wait times on the TDOSHS website before you go.

What counts as proof of your new address

Tennessee accepts the following documents as proof of address, provided they are dated within 60 days of your visit or submission:

  • Utility bill (electric, gas, water, internet, or phone)
  • Lease agreement or rental contract
  • Mortgage statement or property tax bill
  • Bank or credit card statement
  • Government mail (tax notice, voter registration, court document)
  • Insurance policy (auto, home, or renter's)
  • Pay stub showing your current address

The document must show your full name and the new address. If you are moving and do not yet have a utility bill or lease in your name at the new address, bring whatever documentation you have (a signed lease, a letter from your landlord, or a utility bill in a roommate's name with a note from the landlord confirming your occupancy). Call your local Driver Services office ahead of time to confirm what they will accept in your situation.

Timeline and important date

You have 30 days from the date you move to report your new address. If you do not report it within 30 days, you can be cited for failure to notify of a change of address, which is a Class C misdemeanor in Tennessee. This carries a fine and a mark on your driving record.

If you change your address online, the update is when ready. If you request a replacement card by mail or online, the card arrives in 7 to 10 business days, but your address is updated in the TDOSHS system as soon as your order is processed (usually within 1 to 2 business days). If you change your address in person, the update is when ready.

Your old license remains valid for identification purposes even after you change your address. You do not need to destroy it or turn it in. However, if you are pulled over and your address does not match your residence, you may be asked to explain the discrepancy.

Moving out of state

If you move out of Tennessee and obtain a driver's license in your new state, your Tennessee license becomes invalid for driving purposes in that state. However, you do not have to formally cancel your Tennessee license. If you plan to return to Tennessee or maintain a Tennessee address for mail or other purposes, you can update your address online or in person before you leave.

If you move to another state but keep your Tennessee address on file (for example, if you own property in Tennessee or use a family member's address), you can update that address through the online system or at a Driver Services office. Tennessee does not require you to surrender your license when you move out of state, but your new state will require you to obtain a license there within a set period (usually 30 to 60 days).

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I move and do not have a utility bill yet at my new address?

Bring a signed lease, a letter from your landlord confirming your move-in date, or a utility bill in a roommate's name along with a note from the landlord. Call your local Driver Services office first to confirm they will accept these documents. Some offices are flexible; others require a document in your name.

Can I change my address if my license is suspended or revoked?

No. You must resolve the suspension or revocation first. Contact TDOSHS at 615-251-8590 to find out the status of your license and what steps are needed to clear it before you can update your address.

Do I have to get a replacement card, or can I just update the address in the system?

You can update the address in the system only, at no cost, through the online form or in person. Your old card remains valid. A replacement card is optional and costs $27 if you want your new address printed on the physical card.

How long does it take to get a replacement card in the mail?

Replacement cards are mailed within 7 to 10 business days of your order. Mail delivery typically adds 2 to 5 additional days depending on your location. If you need the card faster, you must visit a Driver Services office in person and request expedited service, though Tennessee does not offer true expedited replacement — you still receive it by mail.

What if I miss the 30-day important date?

You can still change your address at any time. However, if you are cited for failure to notify within 30 days, you will need to pay the fine and may have a misdemeanor on your record. Update your address as soon as possible to avoid further legal issues.