Identification Cards

Every day, you encounter situations where you need to prove who you are. Whether it's to prove identity, show the proper spelling of your name, or verify your address or age to someone, a photo ID is a must for most of us.

You need ID to get into bars and clubs, receive senior discounts, cash checks, and use credit cards. You often need ID to open bank accounts, fly domestically or board an airplane. While a passport is too bulky to carry around all the time, a driver's license is perfect: it's compact and fits in your wallet, is durable, and is valid for several years. So what if you don't drive?

Fortunately, you don't need to drive to get a state-issued ID card. Any Tennessee resident who does not hold a license may apply for a photo ID. It looks just like a driver's license, but you don't have to take a test to get one, and you can't drive legally with one.

Expiring Identification Licenses & Renewals

If you don't drive or don't have a valid driver's license for any reason, you have the option of obtaining an expiring identification license for proof of identity.

Expiring identification license applicants must apply in the same way and present the same documents as required of a driver's license applicant, and the licenses will expire in the same way as a regular driver's license. However, yours won't expire anymore once you're 65 years old or older.

The fee for an expiring identification license is $12.50.

Permanent Identification License

Permanent identification licenses are available to anyone who is either mentally or physically handicapped and has proof in the form of a certified statement from a licensed doctor saying the person is unable to operate a vehicle.

Permanent identification license applicants must present the same documents as required of a driver's license applicant.

There are no fees and no expiration dates for permanent identification licenses.

Renewing an Expiring Identification License

Visit any Driver License Service Center with proof of legal presence and two documents proving your residential address. You'll also need to bring cash or check to pay all applicable fees.

Replacing an Identification License

Visit any Driver License Service Center with your birth certificate and Social Security card. Cost: $8.

Remember

Neither of these identification licenses require testing, nor do they make it legal for you to operate a motor vehicle. They are both for identification purposes only.

Anyone younger than 18 who wishes to obtain an identification license must have a parent or legal guardian complete a Minor/Teenage Affidavit and Cancellation form for them.

For more information about these forms of identification, visit Tennessee's Driver License Types page or refer to Chapter One of the Tennessee Driver Handbook.