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How to Apply for a Tennessee Identification Card

Updated on Thu, 4/28/2011

The Tennessee Department of Safety, Driver License Issuance Division issues non-driver identification cards to State residents who don't have a valid ID card, driver license or instruction permits from the State or any other jurisdiction. The ID card can be used to prove your identity, age, and residence in a variety of situations. The identification card expires in the same manner as a driving license but does not expire for residents who are 65 years old or older. Other than the expiring identification license, a permanent identification license is issued to any person who is mentally retarded or physically handicapped. A permanent identification license does not expire.

APPLYING FOR A TENNESSEE ID CARD

  1. Locate the Driver Testing Center nearest you, as you will have to apply for the ID card in person. You cannot apply online.
  2. Bring proper identification. You will be asked to present primary identification and secondary identification.
  3. You must also provide proof of your social security number (SSN). If you have never been issued a SSN, you may be required to bring a sworn affidavit affirming that you have never been issued a SSN.
  4. Provide two proofs of Tennessee residency.
  5. Pay the ID card application fee, currently $12.50 by cash or check. There is no fee for a permanent identification license.

RENEWING A TENNESSEE ID CARD

  1. Locate the nearest Driver License Service Center as you have to apply for the ID card in person. If you have a digitized photo-id, you can also apply online.
  2. Bring proper identification. You will be asked to present primary identification and secondary identification.
  3. You must also provide proof of your social security number (SSN). If you have never been issued a SSN, you may be required to submit a sworn affidavit affirming that you have never been issued a SSN.
  4. Provide proof of Tennessee residence, in the event that your address has changed.
  5. Pay the ID card renewal fee. Confirm the exact fee with your Driver License Service Center.

REPLACING A LOST, STOLEN, OR DESTROYED ID CARD

You may be issued a replacement identification card if your original ID card has been lost, stolen or destroyed, or if you have had a name or address change.

  1. Locate the Driver License Service Center nearest you, as you will have to apply for the ID card in person. . If you have a digitized photo-id, you can also apply online.
  2. Bring proper identification. You will be asked to present your social security card and the birth certificate.
  3. Provide proof of Tennessee residence, in the event that your address has changed.
  4. Pay the ID card replacement fee, currently $8.00, by cash or check. Confirm the exact fee with your Driver License Service Center.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Adult complete the Minor/Teen-age affidavit and cancellation form for them.