Department of Safety & Homeland Security
Bill Gibbons, Commissioner

There are two types of identification licenses which may be obtained for identification purposes only. No testing is required. However, all applicants must meet the same standards for proof of identity, legal presence and residency as required for any driver license. IDs are not valid for the operation of a vehicle. If an applicant is under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must complete a portion of the Minor/Teen-age Affidavit and Cancellation form (available at any driver service center or online) at the time of application.

1. The first type of ID Only license is an "Expiring Identification License" that may be issued to any person not currently holding a valid driver license who presents positive proof of identification and all other requirements needed to obtain a driver license.
• Please Note: At age 65 or older, the ID does not expire.
• Any applicant who does not have a Social Security Number (SSN) shall complete an affidavit, under penalty of perjury, affirming that the applicant has never been issued a SSN, and must provide one of the following:
  • (a) An original or certified Birth Certificate issued by Tennessee or another state, possession, territory or commonwealth of the USA.
  • (b) Original documentation issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service acceptable to the Department of Safety.
2. The second type is a "permanent identification license" that any person who is intellectually or physically disabled may obtain. In addition to presenting a positive proof of identity, they must submit a certified statement from a licensed doctor stating they are unable to operate a vehicle. Those who qualify for this ID may receive it free of charge. ID licenses issued in this manner do not expire.

NOTE: Temporary IDs (XID) will expire at the end of the individual’s authorized stay.

As a service to Tennessee residents, families with children, including infants, may obtain these identification-only licenses for their children. Children must meet all documentation requirements.

PLEASE NOTE: All documents are subject to further verification with the issuing agency or source. Documents subject to verification may delay the issuance of your permit, driver license or identification only license.

No photocopies will be accepted!

For an ID Only License you will need:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Resident Status or Proof of authorized stay in the United States
• Primary Proof of Identity
• Secondary Proof of Identity
• Proof of any Name Changes if Different than name on Primary ID
• Two Proofs of Tennessee Residency with your name and resident address - NO P.O. BOXES (Documents must be current. Must be dated within last 4 months.)
• A Social Security Number or sworn affidavit if no Social Security number has been issued.

If you are under eighteen (18) years of age you will need the above documents plus:

• Teenage Affidavit/Financial Responsibility

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The Comprehensive Driver License Manual is designed for all current and potential drivers in Tennessee and will help new and old drivers alike get ready for initial, renewal, and other license applications by explaining:

• the different types of licenses available
• the documentation and other requirements for license applications
• details on Intermediate Driver Licenses and how this graduated driver license works for driver license applicants under age 18
• basic descriptions of the tests required for a Driver License

It also includes information needed to pass the knowledge tests for a Class D Tennessee driver license.