Although Tennessee doesn't require you to complete any driver education courses or special training, the state does place certain requirements on those trying to obtain permits and licenses.

Top Requirements for Each Driver License Type

Learner Permit

You must have your learner permit for 180 days before you can apply for your intermediate restricted license. Your learner permit will be extended if you accumulate six or more points during the 180 days before you plan to apply for your intermediate restricted license.

Intermediate Restricted License

A parent or guardian (or your certified driving instructor) must complete and submit a Certification of 50 Hours Behind the Wheel Experience form when you take your road test and apply for your intermediate restricted license.

You must have your intermediate restricted license for one year before you can apply for your intermediate unrestricted license. Your intermediate restricted license will be extended for 90 days if you accumulate six or more points or are found to be at fault for a motor vehicle accident.

Intermediate Unrestricted License

You must keep your intermediate unrestricted license until you are 18, at which point you can apply for your graduated driver license (GDL). Your GDL is your regular Class D license.

Graduated Driver License

You must have completed all requirements of the above permits and licenses before you can apply for your GDL, and you must be at least 18.

For more detailed information regarding the requirements and restrictions of each permit and license, visit our Teen Drivers and Applying for a New License sections.

Top Train Yourself

There are several ways to help educate and train yourself both before and after you obtain your driver's license.

Once you have your learner permit you're allowed to practice driving when accompanied by a licensed driver who is 21 or older. Take advantage of the opportunity to practice driving with someone you know and trust―you'll be less likely to be nervous.

Other good ideas include downloading and reading the Tennessee Driver Handbook or picking up a copy at your local driver license station and taking the practice tests available online for free.

The Department of Safety (DOS) also provides the following information and publications regarding all licenses:

• The License Poster

• Graduated Driver License Brochure

• Graduated Driver License FAQs

Remember, obtaining your driver's license doesn't make you an expert driver―accidents can happen to anyone at anytime.

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