South · Learner Permit (Class PD)
How to get your learner’s permit in Tennessee
Tennessee’s Class PD learner permit is issued at 15 after a knowledge exam. Permit holders may not drive between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m., even supervised.
Tennessee permit requirements at a glance
| Minimum age | 15 |
|---|---|
| Official name | Learner Permit (Class PD) |
| Supervised practice | 50 hours, including 10 at night |
| Minimum holding period | 180 days |
| Issuing agency | Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (official source ↗) |
How easy is it to get licensed in Tennessee?
Our Ease Score weighs starting age, practice hours, and waiting time. See how it works & the full 50-state ranking →
- Starting age
- 15
- Practice hours
- 50 hours
- Waiting time
- 180 days
Longer bars = easier. Overall: 43/100. Easiest in the South: Arkansas (#1) . Nationally, Arkansas is #1 and Maryland is #50.
Did you know? Maine requires 70 supervised hours — the most of any state. See for yourself →
⏳ Count down to your Tennessee permit date · ⚔️ Compare Tennessee with another state · 📝 Track your practice hours
Steps to get your permit in Tennessee
- Confirm you’re eligible. You must be at least 15 . If you’re under 18, a parent or legal guardian will need to sign your application.
- Study the official Tennessee driver manual. The knowledge test is based on it — download it free from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security site. Focus on road signs, right-of-way, and Tennessee’s specific teen-driving (GDL) restrictions.
- Gather your documents. Plan on proof of identity (certified birth certificate or valid passport), your Social Security number, two proofs of Tennessee residency, and — in many states — proof of school enrollment. The exact list is on the official Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security page.
- Apply, pass the vision screening, and take the knowledge test. Most offices recommend or require an appointment, and a fee applies at application — check current fees on the official site, as they change periodically.
- Practice with a qualifying supervising driver. Tennessee requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. Keep a signed log — you'll certify it later.
- Hold your permit for the required period. In Tennessee, that's 180 days. Then schedule your road test for the next license stage.
Tennessee learner’s permit FAQ
How old do you have to be to get a learner's permit in Tennessee?
The minimum age is 15. Tennessee calls this credential the Learner Permit (Class PD).
How many supervised driving hours does Tennessee require?
Tennessee requires 50 hours, including 10 at night. A parent, guardian, or qualifying licensed adult must certify the hours.
How long do you have to hold a learner's permit in Tennessee?
The minimum holding period is 180 days before you can move to the next license stage.
Can you drive alone with a learner's permit in Tennessee?
No. In every US state, a permit holder must be supervised by a qualifying licensed adult seated in the front passenger seat. Driving alone on a permit can lead to citations and can delay your license.
Is Tennessee an easy state to get licensed in?
Tennessee ranks #24 of 50 on our Ease Score (43/100), which weighs starting age, required practice hours, and the permit waiting period. Arkansas is the easiest state in the nation and Maryland is the toughest.