Tennessee Driver Handbook
This manual is published by TN DOS. Open it on the agency site — that copy is always the current edition.
Published by TN DOS
We do not host a copy of this manual. The button above opens the current edition on the TN DOS website, which is always the authoritative version.
Testing at a Glance for Tennessee
Once you've read the handbook, here's what to expect at the TN DOS knowledge test.
30
80%
60 min
Documents You'll Need When You Take the Tennessee Test
One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
Tennessee-Specific Rules Covered in This Handbook
Rules unique to Tennessee that TN DOS weights heavily in the knowledge test — you'll see these in the handbook chapters.
- gavel Hands-Free Law (T.C.A. 55-8-199): illegal to hold a cell phone or device while driving
- gavel Slow Poke Law: prohibits left-lane driving on multilane highways except for passing ($50 fine)
- gavel Move Over Law (T.C.A. 55-8-132): must move over or slow for emergency, tow, maintenance, solid waste, utility vehicles
- gavel GDL: age 15 must pass knowledge test and hold learner permit 6 months before intermediate license
- gavel At-home proctored knowledge test available for ages 15-17 via Tennessee Proctor ID App
After You Pass: Tennessee License Renewal
8 years
$28
Courtesy renewal notices are mailed approximately 8-10 weeks before the credential expires
More Tennessee Driving Resources
Tennessee Handbook FAQ
Is this the official Tennessee driver handbook?
We do not host a copy of it. TN DOS publishes the official manual on its own website, and the button above opens that edition — always the authoritative one.
What documents does TN DOS require when I show up for the test?
One proof of U.S. citizenship or legal presence, one proof of SSN, and two proofs of Tennessee residency.
How is the Tennessee knowledge test administered after I finish reading?
30 multiple-choice questions, minimum 80% (24/30) required to pass.
Do I have to read the whole Tennessee handbook to pass the test?
The TN DOS test has 30 questions and you need 24 correct (80%) to pass. All questions come from the handbook, but strategic readers focus on Signs, Right-of-Way, and Signaling first — those chapters carry the most test weight.
How current is this Tennessee handbook version?
TN DOS reissues the handbook when state law changes. Because we link straight to the agency, the button above always opens whatever edition is current.
Where do I actually take the Tennessee test after reading the handbook?
At any TN DOS location. Use our /dmv-near-me/tn finder for the nearest office with address, hours, and phone.
Is the Tennessee driver handbook free to download?
Yes. TN DOS publishes it free as a PDF. If a website is charging to "download" the handbook, it's a scam — the state's official version is always free.
Can I read the Tennessee handbook on my phone?
Yes. The TN DOS site serves the manual as a PDF that opens fine on a phone.