State unveils new driver license design and announces self-service kiosks

The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security (TDOSHS) announced this week it is issuing new Driver Licenses and ID cards with a fresh design and improved security features along with new self-service kiosks, which can reduce wait times at Driver Service Centers. The new credentials and kiosks will expand to all Driver Service Centers over the next few months.

About the Newly-Designed Tennessee Driver License 

The new Driver Licenses and ID cards prominently feature a stylized version of Tennessee’s historic State Capitol and state flag with its iconic three-stars representing the state’s three grand divisions. The new design features waves and patterns printed in very fine lines that are not able to be scanned or easily reproduced.

The new credentials are made with a sturdy poly-carbonate composition, incorporate cutting-edge security and printing techniques. This includes elaborate overlapping of data and graphics and laser engraved elements that will show if the document has been altered or is fraudulent. A machine-readable barcode with applicable class, endorsements, and restrictions are printed on the back of the card. A mini ghost image repeated from the photograph is encoded elements for automated validation to help reduce identity theft.

“The new Tennessee Driver Licenses incorporate the latest technology which makes them more difficult to counterfeit, alter, or duplicate,” TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long noted. “These countermeasures help prevent theft and fraud and help keep your identity safe.”

There is no need for citizens to obtain a new Driver License or ID with the new design before their existing license or ID expires. Driver Licenses and ID cards with the old design will be in use alongside the new cards. Previously-issued Driver Licenses are valid until the expiration date listed on the card. Individuals do not need to replace their current Driver License or ID card unless their current credential has reached its expiration or a required change is needed, such as a name or address change.

The new design will apply to all credentials issued by the TDOSHS including Regular Driver Licenses, Teen/Graduated Driver Licenses, Commercial Driver Licenses, Motorcycle License, ID Only License, REAL IDs and Handgun Carry Permits.

About REAL IDs

Although state residents don’t need to renew their driver license prior to its expiration with the unveiling of the new design, beginning May 7, 2025, anyone taking a domestic flight is required to use a REAL ID. It will also be required to enter certain federal locations that require a photo ID, such as nuclear power plants and military bases.

Federal law requires that the first application for a REAL ID compliant credential be made in person. Madison Countians can get a REAL ID at their full-service, driver services center in Jackson Driver Services Center, 100 Benchmark Cir., Jackson, 1-731-423-6622. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

A REAL ID will cost the same as a current Tennessee license and ID. For renewals, the cost to obtain a REAL ID driver license or Identification credential will be the standard renewal fee of an 8-year credential. Those who are not within their renewal period will be charged a duplicate fee.

A REAl ID is distinguished by a gold circle with a star on the front of the driver license.

You will need to present the following documents when applying for a REAL ID:

Proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence; 

Proof of your full Social Security Number; and

Two proofs of Tennessee residency.

You should also be prepared to provide documentation of any name changes that may have occurred. This may require presentation of multiple documents.

All documents must be originals or certified. No photocopies will be accepted.

For more information on Tennessee Driver Services including the new self-service kiosks and Driver Licenses and ID cards visit tn.gov/safety/driver-services.html.

While Madison County does not offer a self-service kiosk, the state announced plans to roll out the service statewide.

“We are excited about the added flexibility and convenience the new self-service kiosks will provide for Tennesseans,” TDOSHS Commissioner Jeff Long noted. “Citizens can complete many Driver Services transactions at one of these new kiosks which will help reduce wait times at Driver Services Centers.”

Tennesseans can use the self-service kiosk to complete many Driver Services transactions including renewing or replacing a duplicate Driver License or ID Card, changing an address, updating emergency contact information, advancing a Teen/Graduated Driver License, paying reinstatement fees, and requesting a license reissue after reinstatement requirements are met. The new kiosks will take photos and process payments with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or a credit or debit card.

For more information about the kiosk centers, including current locations, visit https://www.tn.gov/safety/driver-services/locations/kiosk.html.